Friday, July 29, 2016

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Friday, July 22, 2016

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Monday, July 18, 2016

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Saturday, July 16, 2016

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July 16, 2016 at 09:14PM
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July 16, 2016 at 06:38PM
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July 16, 2016 at 05:29PM
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July 16, 2016 at 04:18PM
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July 16, 2016 at 01:26PM
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July 16, 2016 at 12:10PM
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Friday, July 15, 2016

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Wednesday, July 13, 2016

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Monday, July 11, 2016

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Sunday, July 10, 2016

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July 11, 2016 at 12:44AM
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July 10, 2016 at 11:31PM
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July 10, 2016 at 09:09PM
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July 10, 2016 at 05:11PM
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Saturday, July 9, 2016

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Why My Air Conditioner Will Not Turn On


Living in Houston, Texas one of the most important things that need to function correctly in our homes is our air conditioner unit.  This summer especially has been very hot and humid from the beginning.  The worse thing that could happen is your AC suddenly stop working or not even turn on at all.

Thankfully, there are some steps that you can take to figure out just what the problem may be and possibly fix, but keep in mind that some problems are best left to the HVAC specialists like Autumn Air.

You will find that most air conditioning systems are built to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, though throughout that time do not be surprised that they may some TLC or even possibly repairs.  To help potentially prevent these issues from arising, have your annual maintenance tune-up scheduled each spring.

Spending a little money for the annual maintenance tune-up can help save you lots compared to it breaking down and having to pay for repairs.

Some common issues that may be the problem have some simply solutions:
  • When you AC does not cool rooms evenly:  Check and make sure that the fan that is on your unit is pushing the air into all the rooms and into the duct system.
  • The AC turns on and runs, but you do not feel any cool air:  Firstly check and make sure that your thermostat is set to the correct temperature.  If it is, check the indoor and outdoor units, make sure that the condenser and evaporator do not have dirt or debris that could possibly be causing issues.
  • You hear the condenser unit returns on and off:  If the unit is turning off and on repeatedly could possibly mean that the condenser or fan is dirty or it is clogged.
  • The outdoor unit with the condenser will not turn on at all:  This could possibly mean that a motor is not working properly or it may not be getting any power to turn on.

Issues that can happen and cause your AC to not turn on are wiring problems, icy buildup, faulty thermostats, dirty evaporators, filters, or condenser, faulty motors, low refrigerant, or faulty compressors.  If any of these could possible be a problem, be sure to contact your local and trusted HVAC specialist.  They can help determine how to fix it as well as confirm if that is the issue.

If you come to the fork in the road of deciding if you need to repair or replace, make sure to bare in mind just how old your unit is as well as carefully evaluate the repairs costs.  If your unit is 12 years old or more or if you find that the repairs cost 50% or more of your unit’s total value you just may want to consider replacing your old AC unit with a new one.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Which Air Conditioner is the Quietest?


In Houston, Texas it is always important to keep you and your family nice and cool during those hot and humid summer months.  So when you are left to search for a new air conditioning system or purchasing a new one for your newly built home, finding the right one is important.

Not only is it important to find a AC system that properly cools your home as well as help keep your energy bill low, but having one that does not create a horrible and loud racket is a need as well.  Especially if you have little ones that take naps during the day and tend to be light sleepers.

When it comes to comparing different units, there is a section called decibel (dB) that is the sound rating.  The lower the number, the quieter the unit runs.  There is a simple way to break down just exactly how loud that means.

When it comes to a unit that is around 80 dB, think of turning on your garbage disposal and it is grinding up a bunch of food and such.  Now think of a unit that is around 70 dB, especially the higher 70’s, think of vacuuming your carpet.

Then if you see some that are around 60 dB you can compare this to when you are at a restaurant and there are lots of different conversations going on.  Finally, ones that are around 50 dB are similar to having a quiet conversation in your home.

This just all gives you a general idea of what the sound level would be for each section of the dB levels.  Now when you compare levels of dB, you will have a better idea of exactly how loud each one can be.

As of 2015, the lowest range for dB usually runs about 50-60 dB, which is pretty low.  American Standard Platinum CX25 and Trane XV18 both run at 55 dB, which is one of the lowest.

When it comes to pricing for quiet units, the quieter it is the more expensive and this is because these are usually more energy efficient.  The one thing is that helps determine the sound rating is the size of the AC unit, which is measured in tons as well as if the fan is running at its lowest setting.

That means that in the great state of Texas, with all of its humidity and also if you have a rather large home, your unit will more than likely be louder than the sound rating that is advertised.  Though keep in mind that if you want a quiet unit, choosing one that is between 50 and 60 dB will be much quieter than those higher than that.  If you did chose one that was higher, it will be even higher than what is advertised as well.

There are specific features to keep in mind that help reduce the sound.  One that has a fan that has various speeds, the insulation for the compressor, if it has noise-reducing fan blades, and if the base pan is insulated.  If you cannot find the dB rating, check for these and if these are included then it should be one of the quieter AC systems.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Where is the Air Conditioner Circuit Breaker


We all know that in the great state of Texas, especially in the Houston area, that the summers get to be very hot and humid.  During that time, all of us Houstonians like to stay cool and comfortable in our homes.  So when our AC stops working, we are usually not very happy.

One thing that can cause our air conditioning systems to quit working is if the circuit breaker gets tripped.  When the air conditioner trips the circuit breaker, there could be a few reasons why that need to be addressed right away.  If they are not, potential harm can come to the equipment or even cause a fire.

The main reason why a breaker would trip is because it’s pulling more amps than the breaker is suppose to handle.  What this means is that if the breaker is suppose to only be a 20-amp, but your air conditioner is working at 30-amps, this will cause the breaker to trip.

There are a few commons things that can cause the breaker to trip, which these things can be correctly either by yourself or a professional, but are pretty easy to fix.

Check your outdoor part of the unit, it may be possible that it is pretty dirty which you can get a HVAC contractor like Autumn Air out there to give it a nice annual tune up.  This is always best left to a professional, as they can also check for an leaks, recharge the refrigerant if needed, and more.  This will help keep your system up and running to the standards it needs to be to give you its best.

Check your air filter, if it is dirty this can cause the AC unit to over work it.  If you find that the filter is dirty, it is best to change this or you unit will continue to trip the breaker.

Another few issues that could arise that a specialist can check for you are if the motor has shorted out.  If the motor runs how for too long, this can cause the wire insulation to break down and lead to an electrical short.  If your compressor is having issues starting up, which means it may just need a “jolt” to get it moving again.  Make sure that your compressor is grounded because if it is not, it could cause sudden current surges that can trip the breaker.

Needing to schedule an air conditioner repair is never a fun thing to be told, but if any of these issues are happening, it is important to get a professional to handle it.
Where to find your circuit breaker in your home will usually depend.  Newer homes, it is said that the common place is in the garage, but older homes it is usually found inside the home itself.

When it comes to figuring out just which breaker is for what, when the electrician set up the breaker box, they usually go through and label each breaker for the homeowners.

Thankfully, if a breaker trips you simply just need to reset it to get it back on.  First you must make sure that the AC has been unplugged from the outlet, and then find the breaker in the breaker box that is out of line with the rest.  Turn it completely off and then back on, this should reset the breaker.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Where Does Air Conditioner Water Come From


I bet when you have taken a look at your indoor air conditioner that you may have noticed that there was water dripping.  First time most people notice this they immediately think something is wrong, but rest-a-sure that this is completely normal.

Have you ever gotten a bottle of water out from the fridge and set it down, and usually within a few minutes you start seeing water collecting on the outside of the bottle, which is known as condensation.  This is basically what happens to the indoor air conditioning unit.

The way our bodies work to cool us down is by sweating, and when the sweat evaporates, it takes the heat along with it.  The only bad thing is that if the moisture in the air is really high our sweat will not evaporate, which makes it very difficult to cool down.

Refrigerant that is used by your air conditioning system is what is used to give the cooling effect in your home.  What it does is once the air in the home is sucked out of the room; the refrigerant pulls the heat from the air which all of that is pushed through to the outdoor unit.  There, the heat is released and the now cooled air is pushed back into the home and out into the rooms through the registers and vents.

With the indoor unit, when that air hits the evaporator and the refrigerant, the moisture that is in the air itself gets condensed.  It then drips into the drain that is in the AC unit.

The amount of liquid that gets condensed in the evaporator varies.  This is due to how humid each day is, and we all know here in Houston it stays pretty humid quite often, especially in the summertime.  The more humid it is, the more condensation you will find.

Now if there is a significant leak and it is happening on your outdoor AC or it does not seem to be draining on the indoor unit then something is wrong.  There are a few things that could cause a water leak with your system; here are just a few of them.

One of the most frequent but simple water leaks that can happen is your drain line is clogged.  Things such as dirt, rust, and other debris can cause this and having one of your HVAC specialists like Autumn Air come out can easily fix this.  It is important to have this fixed as soon as possible because mold can grow and cause health issues for you and your family.

If the AC system was now properly installed, drainpipe fittings can become lose over the years, which can cause it to disconnect from the AC unit completely.  It is always best to get a trusted HVAC specialist out to fix as soon as possible.

Having a dirty or broken condensate pump can definitely cause a leakage with water, which can actually flood the area of where the air conditioner is located.

Some other smaller potential causes can be a clogged filter, condensate buildup in the ductwork that is not insulated, cracked condensate strain pan, refrigerant being low, and even not having a p-trap and air vent in the drain that help prevent water from backing up.

Thankfully there are ways to avoid water leakage from happening:
  • Clean or change out your air filters regularly.
  • Install a drain pan overflow switch that automatically shuts off.
  • Make sure that all your ductwork has been properly insulated.
  • Make sure that you have a p-trap and air vent in each drain line.
  • Make sure to include a safety pan under the air conditioning unit to catch any drain pan overflow.
  • Make sure that there is no mold or mildew in your condensate pump by flushing it with a solution mix of 50/50 water and bleach.
  • Make sure that there is a secondary drain line, especially if the unit is in the attic.
  • Make sure you stay up to date on your annual HVAC maintenance.
  • Make sure that your refrigerant levels are checked regularly as well.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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When My Air Conditioner System is on it Smells


We all know how hot and humid the summers in Houston, Texas can be.  Being without air conditioning can be a major nightmare, but having an AC unit that also tends to have a funky smell to it definitely is not a plus either.

When you crank on your AC you should get that relief from the heat feeling refreshed, but getting smacked with this real foul, majorly stinky smell coming from your vents definitely does not give you that refresh and relief feeling.

If you do find that you have a foul smell coming from your registers or vents, it is best to see about getting that fixed as soon as possible.  Not only is the smell difficult to deal with, but it can also end up being hazardous for you and your family.

There are a few reasons that could cause your AC unit to be blowing out that foul smelling air:
  • If your drip pan is clogged – Mildew can grow if this drip pan has been moved, filling up too fast, or is clogged.  If the clog can be seen, you more than likely can unclog it on your own, but if you cannot, it will more than likely need the assistance of a HVAC specialist.
  • If your filters are clogged or dirty – Your air filters are built to catch dust, dirt, debris, and much more.  If they are expose to too much moisture or the tiny, organic particles that it catches can accelerate their mildew growth if exposed to moisture.  This you can handle yourself by changing out the filter.
  • If there is moisture in your ductwork – Ductwork is what the maze of tunnels coming from your outdoor AC unit that delivers the cooled air to each room through registers or vents.  If these are not sealed correctly or if the AC is not removing all the moisture from the air can cause mildew.  Any excess moisture within the ducts can lead to mold and mildew growth that spreads the odor throughout your home.  This is best taken care of by a professional, trusted HVAC specialist like Autumn Air.
  • If you find that your condensate drain line is clogged – This drain line runs from your evaporator coils all the way to your outdoor AC unit that removes the condensation created by the coils.  If this ends up clogged, mildew can accumulate within and around your coils.
  • Internal Issues – This is where some parts inside your air conditioning unit is dirty or has mildew growth.  This is also best taken care of by a HVAC specialist.

Like mentioned earlier, the best way to avoid issues like this from happening is having an HVAC specialist come out during the spring time and run through the annual maintenance tune-up on your AC system.  This can easily take care of any cleaning and lubricating that your AC may need as well as possibly spot any potential problems that can arise.

Remember, it is always best to pay a little to have this done than pay a lot to have any repairs done.  Also, most warranties require to have this done or it ends up being void.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Why AC Unit Leaks Water


When your air conditioner unit goes down for any reason, there is absolute frustration.  Especially if it is the middle of the hot and humid summer here in Houston, Texas, but the frustration level can be even higher if you find that there is a leak of some kind, like one that involves water.

The indoor part of your AC unit is usually the one that a water leak can happen.  They can be rather messy and could even cause significant water damage to your home.  This type of issue can also lead to more serious problems down the road if they are not addressed.

There are some common causes that can lead to water leaks:
  • Condensate Pump Issues – If your condensate pump is dirty or malfunctioning in some way, this can cause your AC unit to have a water leak and could potentially flood the area this part of the unit is located in.  If there is a continual leak that is not fixed, potential mildew and mold can grow and cause it to clog.
  • Drain Line is Clogged – Having your condensate drain pipe clogged can cause overflow in your drain pan.  This is the most common of causes for water leaks and tends to be the reason for many service calls during those high summer temperatures.  Dirt, debris, algae, and more can be the cause to clog this drain line.
  • Drain Line is Disconnected – If you find that the drain pipes were improperly installed, the fittings may not be secure on the pipes.  As time goes on, these fittings can loosen and cause the drain pipe to disconnect from the AC completely and cause it to drain somewhere else like your floor or ceiling.  There is a primary and secondary drain pipe, so finding out what one is affected would depend on that.

There are a few more potential causes of water leakage such as low refrigerant, no p-trap and air vent within the drain line to prevent water backup, clogged air filter, cracked condensate drain pan, or condensate buildup found in un-insulated ductwork.  A couple of the reasons there can be from your evaporator coil freezing up which will create its own source of water leaks.

There are ways to prevent water leaks and damage from the water leaks.  If you follow these tips, it can reduce the issue of water leaks.
  • Make sure to change or clean your air filters regularly.
  • Have a drain pan overflow shutoff switch installed that is equipped with a float.
  • Be sure that there is a p-trap and air vent in each drain line.
  • Have a safety pan placed under your AC to catch any drain pan overflow.
  • Make sure that there is no mold or mildew in your condensate pump, flushing it with 50/50 of bleach and water will help prevent that.
  • Making sure that you air conditioner has a secondary drain line, especially if it is one that has an air handler in the attic is recommended.
  • Make sure that you regularly check the refrigerant levels.
  • Make sure that all ductwork is or has been installed properly.
  • And last, be sure that you stay on top of scheduling your annual preventative maintenance, also known as your AC tune-up.

Making sure that these are done will help ensure prevention of any water leaks from happening within your home and also give you full operational ability and efficiency.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Why AC Unit Fan Is Not Working


During the hot and humid months in Houston, Texas having an air conditioner system that is functioning properly is one of the most important things needed to keep you and your family comfortable.  So when your AC fan suddenly quits working, one of your worst nightmares has come true.

For a central air conditioning unit there are two units that make up the entire system.  One is an indoor unit that contains the evaporator coil that pulls the heat from inside your home.  The other is an outdoor unit that contains the condenser that releases the heat that was absorbed and sends back into the house the newly cooled air.

There are some common reasons as to why your one or both fans are not operating:
Burnt Out Motor – It is completely nature for the fan motors to go through lots and wear and tear, but under too much stress they can burn out.  If your AC unit is not properly maintained, then it is much more likely that this can happen.  Having a bad fan motor can is something that is needed to be fixed by a trusted HVAC specialist like Autumn Air, or if it is not able to be fixed then a replacement would be needed.

Air Filter Is Blocked – With your indoor fan, if you air filter is really clogged, it will still be working properly, but the air that is attempted to be blown out can’t.  In other words, you will not feel that air blowing into your home, be sure to check your air filter and either clean it or replace it.

Capacitor Issues – The capacitor is what provides the power to your air conditioner’s fans by storing up the energy.  There are many reasons why your capacitor could go bad or even completely stop working.  When this happens one of the fans within your AC system will stop.  This is generally needed to be replaced by a professional.

Your Unit Does Not Have Power – Sometimes your issues with the AC fan is not because of the fan’s assembly but rather a simple power issue.  There are many parts within the air conditioner that can overheat and potentially trip a circuit breaker, which causes the entire system to shut down.  You can simply check your circuit board and flip on the tripped circuit breaker, though if the problem happens multiple times it is best to reach out to a professional.

Problems with Contractor – This is a switch within the air conditioning unit that electricity flows through that controls the compressor and also the condenser fan motor.  If this contractor goes bad over time, then this restricts the condenser fan from working properly.  This is another piece that would need a professional to replace.

Belt is Loose or Broken – In other AC systems, it is common for fans to be run by belts, and if this belt becomes loose or breaks this will make the fan stop working.  This can be repaired but usually it is a sign to consider a completely new air conditioning unit due to the current system being inefficient as well as old.

There is a great preventative to help avoid these fans issues from happening.  Making sure to schedule your annual AC tune-up, which during this they can determine if there are any potential AC repairs that could cause the fans to quit working as well as any other issues.  The small amount of money that you pay to have this done can definitely pay off if they catch a potential issue that could cost you lots more money down the road.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Which AC Unit Is The Quietest?


When those hot and humid summer months hit in Houston, Texas it is always important to make sure that you and your family are comfortable in your home.  So if you are needing to replace your old system with a new air conditioning system or just recently finished building a new home and need to decide on an AC, finding the right one that fits your home is important.

There are a lot of things that need to be considered when comparing different AC units.  The number one is making sure that it properly cools your home which is followed closely by it being energy efficient.  Saving on your energy bill is a major plus with purchasing a new unit, which goes hand in hand with having a quiet system.

Having an air conditioner that is quiet is a major bonus, especially if you are a light sleeper or having children that are.  Though I do not think that most anyone would prefer a unit that makes a lot of racket if given the choice.

There are numerous ways that air conditioning units are compared, which most charts you will find contain things such as BTUs and SEER but the rating you are looking for a dB, which stands for decibel.  This is the sound rating.  You will want to find the lowest number, as the lower the number the quieter the unit will be.

As of last year in 2015, the two AC systems that had the lowest dB rating of 55 were Trane XV18 and American Standard Platinum CX25.  Currently, the lowest range right now is 55-60 dB, though that could change in the future.

Keep in mind that if you are wishing for the quietest air conditioner, you will need to expect paying for it.  The quieter the unit runs, the more energy efficient it will be, thus the purchasing cost will be more.

To get the promised dB rating that that is promised on the chart for that specific AC you would need to make sure that the fan is running on its lowest setting, which in the great state of Texas with all of its humidity, would be hard to achieve.  Also, it would take in account the size of your home too, the bigger the home, the less likely you will succeed in getting that exact dB rating.
With this being said, even though the actual dB would be louder if you do own a larger home and the fan is not running on its lowest, getting a system that is between 55 to 60 dB will still run much more quiet that one that has a rating closer to 70 or 80.

Now you may be wondering exactly how loud is 70 dB or even 60 dB, here is a simple break down.  When you are told a unit has a dB rating of 80, think of the sound your garbage disposal makes when you turn it on to grind up the food.  70 dB is as loud as if you were vacuuming the carpets in your home.

Now when you reach to 60 dB, that is like being inside a restaurant and hearing the conversations throughout the sitting area.  When you great 50 dB, it’s as loud as having a quiet conversation in your own home.  Hopefully that gives you a better idea what each level of dB sounds like.

There are a few features to keep in mind that will help reduce the sound.  They are noise-reducing fan blades, an insulated base pan, how the compressor is insulated, and the fan having various speeds.  If you are not able to find the sound rating or dB, see if the air conditioner you are considering has any or all of these which will help you determine if it is a quieter system.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Houston, TX 77018
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When My Air Conditioner Is On It Smells


Living in Houston, Texas during its hot and humid summers can sometimes feel unbearable, so making sure to have a fully functional air conditioning system is utmost important for you and your family’s comfort in your home.  That being said, having a AC that is working but when it runs you have this foul smell running through your home can be majorly frustrating, and not to mention just gross.

One of the things that you should feel when your AC unit is working and bring cool air into your home is being refreshed and relieved of the heat outside.  But if you have this foul smell running through your home along with the cool air, you are not feeling very refresh or relieved anymore.

If this foul and strange smell is floating through you home, it is important to find out just why there is a smell and how to fix it.  If you neglect to, it could become hazardous in various ways for you and your family.

Here are some things to check that are common reasons why you may be getting that foul smell:
  • Having Moisture in You Ductwork – Ductwork is what the outdoor AC unit pushes the newly cooled air through to bring it back into your home.  These are tunnel like and are connected to your vents and registers where the cool air blows out.  If your AC is not properly removing the moisture from the air, it can collect in the ductwork and cause mildew to start growing.  Also, mildew can grow if the ducts were not properly sealed.
  • Internal Problems – If there are issues inside your air conditioner such as parts being dirty or has mildew growth on it can cause that smell.
  • Clogged Drip Pan – If you drip pan has been moved, clogged, or is filling up too quickly this can cause mildew to grow.  Be sure to check and see if you can see the clog, if you can you can try to unclog it, but if you cannot see it, it is most likely located further down the drain.
  • Condensate Drain Line Clogged – You will find this drain line run from your evaporator coils all the way to your outdoor AC that is in charge of removing condensation from the coils.  If it is clogged, there is a chance that mildew can grow in it as well as along the coils.
  • Filters are Clogged or Dirty – Your air filters’ job is to catch as much dirt, debris, dust, and much more as possible.  This includes organic particles that if overly exposed to moisture can quickly have mildew grow.  Make sure these are changed regularly.

To take care of most of these issues, it may be best to call your trusted HVAC specialist to come out.  Usually having them come out in the early springtime and providing your air conditioner with an AC tune-up can help eliminate or prevent any of these issues from happening.  During the tune-up they will thoroughly clean, lubricate, and check for any possible problems within your AC.  It is a great investment for such a small price that could end up saving you lots down the road.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Houston, TX 77018
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What Happens When The AC Unit Is Low On Freon?


It is summertime in Houston, Texas area and having an air conditioning unit that keeps you and your family nice and cool is a big necessity.  So when you notice that your AC system is either acting strange or not functioning to its full potential, then one possible issue could be that your Freon is low.

Freon, which is the refrigerant that helps your entire AC function is the blood of the machine.  This refrigerant is in charge of cooling your home by absorbing the heat out of the air inside your home.  Which means that if it is low, then your unit will not properly cool your home.

If your Freon is low, it is a major problem because it can cause some serious damage to your air conditioner if it is not recharged.  There are some signs that you can keep an eye out for that can alert you to the possibility.

If you notice that the air that is blowing out of your vents or registers is lukewarm or even warm.

Your energy bills are much higher than they normally are during this time of year.  This is because your AC unit will run for longer periods of time to try and cool your home to the temperature set by your thermostat.
You hear bubbling or hissing sounds which means that there is a leak.  A refrigerant leak is pretty much the only way you can end up being low on Freon.  Which when it escapes through the leak, it will make that bubbling or hissing noise.

If your notice that it is taking longer and longer for your home to cool down could be a sign that the Freon is low.  Since Freon is in charge of absorbing the heat from the air, if it is low on Freon on, it would take much longer for it to accomplish that which means it would take longer to cool your home down.

One of the big things is that if your refrigerant line has an ice buildup.  Connected to your outdoor unit, there is a copper line that is for your refrigerant.  Your AC evaporator coil will send the refrigerant through this line and if the Freon is low, the coils get too cold and causes a cold liquid refrigerant to flow through the line.  What happens then is that surrounding moisture that is on the refrigerant line will freeze up.  This can potentially cause damage to your outside unit compressor if this refrigerant flows back.  The compressor is not made to compress liquids, only gas and if it is forced to try and compress the liquid, it can cause severe damage.  This is a pretty pricey part to replace, especially if you do not have a warranty and could potentially need to end up replacing the entire unit.

If you suspect that your Freon is low, it is always best to call a trusted HVAC specialist like Autumn Air to come out and troubleshoot your AC.  If there is a leak, they will be able to fix it and have the correct tools to do that as well as refill the Freon in your unit.

A way to avoid something like this to happen is make sure to stay up to date with your AC tune-up.  During the tune-up process, one of the things they will inspect is any potential leaks.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Autumn Air
3036 Yale St.
Houston, TX 77018
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How Often Do You Need To Get AC Tune-Ups?


When living in Houston, Texas we pretty much deal with heat nearly year round.  Turning our furnaces on during our “winter” time is rare in itself, which means we usually tend to run our air conditioning systems much more than not.  With this being said, taking proper care of our AC is very important.

Part of taking care of these AC units is making sure to do our own maintenance as well as to have that annual tune-up schedule in early spring to prepare the AC for the hot and humid summer months.

Now when you hear about giving your AC system a tune-up, one of the first questions that pops into your head is when and how often are you supposed to have these tune-ups done?

It is always important to take care of all your possessions, and that also includes your AC unit as well.  With the cost to purchase and install these units, it is important to stay on top of the maintenance and have it done properly to help keep it running to its full lifespan.

If neglected, the air conditioner will eventually give out, and much quicker than the promised lifespan.  AC tune-ups, as known as preventative maintenance helps make sure that any potential problems are solved before repairs are needed, as well as making sure that your system is running at its full potential.

These tune-ups are generally only needed once a year, which is what most warranties require in order to keep it from becoming void.

Having a tune-up done regularly, meaning annually, can end up being a big money saver in the long run.  As well as give you and your family that piece of mind without the worry of your air conditioner unit breaking down in the middle of July.

One of the worse things that could happen if you skip your annual preventative maintenance is that your AC system breaks down in July, which you then call to schedule a troubleshoot and repair appointment and find that it is going to take at least 3 weeks for someone to come out.

Summertime for HVAC specialists is like Christmas time for retail stores.  It is their busiest time due to those that do not schedule and have their annual tune-up done, which brings out HVAC specialists, like Autumn Air out.  Needing repairs done generally takes much longer than a tune-up as they need to determine the issue as well as possibly having to wait for parts to replace the damaged ones.

It is always best to go ahead and schedule your annual tune-up as early as possible during the spring that way you meet the standards needed for your warranty as well as keep you and your family comfortable through the hot and humid summer months.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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3036 Yale St.
Houston, TX 77018
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Air Conditioning Tune Up


We all know how hot and humid the summers here in Houston, Texas can get, so having your air conditioner unit breaking down in the middle of July is a true nightmare.  Not only is your AC no longer providing that nice, cool air, but you also more than likely cannot get an appointment scheduled until a couple weeks or more out.

The summertime for HVAC specialists, like Autumn Air, is like Christmas time for retail stores, it is the absolute busiest time.  Lucky for you, there is a way to help potentially prevent a mid-summer breakdown.

During the early springtime months, call your local and trusted professional to schedule your AC tune-up or better known as preventative maintenance.  This entire process will help keep your system tuned up as well as potentially prevent any repair issues that could happen due to neglect.

There are many reasons why it is important to have your AC unit maintenance regularly, usually once to twice a year.  One of the big ones is to keep your warranty from becoming void.

Another reason is to help save you money down the road.  Paying a small amount compared to potentially hundreds to thousands to repair an issue that could have been avoided is definitely better.

After that reason comes the reason of getting the most out of your AC system.  This means getting its full potential when it comes to its lifespan and efficiency.  If it is not properly maintained, then there are chances of it operating inefficiently as well as reduce its lifespan.

Your next question is exactly all will the professional do during this preventative maintenance?  This is what you should expect:
To have your thermostat fully calibrated to verify that it functioning properly.

  • A nice, deep cleaning of your condenser coils.  This helps increase the efficiency, which is what affects your energy costs.  This will also help reduce the wear and tear that happens running your AC.
  • Making sure that all electrical connections are tightened and inspected to all safety standards.
  • Evaluate the coolant or refrigerant’s levels so that your AC system is operating at fully potential.  Also making sure that all rotating and moving parts are properly lubricated so that they run nice and smooth which prevents and friction and wear that helps prevent an increase in energy costs.
  • Make sure that the blower motor is functioning properly as well as make sure that the blower belt is in best condition.
  • Fully inspect all ductwork and make sure there is nothing that can create a loss of energy.

This is to help you better understand how important scheduling the tune-up is.  It mainly consists of making sure that there are no apparent issues or potential issues that can happen over the summer.  Also give the system a thorough cleaning that can accumulate during the wintertime months.

All of this is to help maintain the efficiency and to give you the full life of your air conditioner.  To neglect having this maintenance done can cause expensive repairs or even possibly the need to replace your entire unit.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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3036 Yale St.
Houston, TX 77018
(713) 864-8368
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Air Conditioning Tune Up Necessary


One of the most asked questions is whether or not your annual AC tune-up, also known as annual preventative maintenance is necessary.  There are many benefits and reasons why having this done to your air conditioning system is very important.

One thing that a homeowner themselves can do is to make sure to change the air filter regularly, though there are more than just air filters.  Making sure that you have your annual preventative maintenance done can help prevent you from sitting in your home without AC in the middle of the hot and humid summer of Houston, Texas.

When the question pops into your head about whether or not you should schedule that appointment for the tune-up, ask yourself these few questions.

Are you wishing to get the full, expected lifespan of your air conditioner?  Are you wanting to improve the performance and efficiency of your AC equipment?  Do you wish to save money on energy costs?  Is it important for you and your family to be both comfort as well as safe?

If you answered yes to one or more of these, then it is rather important for you to schedule that tune-up appointment.  That tune-up appointment can give you all of these benefits plus more.

Even in Houston, Texas there is a time that our air conditioning units are shut off for a period of time.  During this time, dirt and debris builds up during that time and when you first kick on your AC unit, the coils will burn that off.  The bad thing is that is it’s a large build up, it can cause your cooling system to start operating inefficiently.  Also during this time refrigerant leaks and electrical problems can happen.

Having your HVAC specialist, like Autumn Air, come out and complete the tune-up offers many more benefits.  One of the big ending results is that it will help you save money down the road.  Yes, it will cost you anywhere from $80-$100, but this is small change compared to repair costs if something happens.

It can catch any potential small issues that could lead to something much bigger.  Some issues that can arise can be very small in the beginning and during the routine maintenance, but if left uncheck can lead to much larger problems that are costlier.
It helps increase your AC system’s efficiency and lifespan. AC units last between 10 to 20 years, 12 years on average.  To be able to make it to that time frame, regular maintenance is needed, and could possibly make it last closer to the 20-year mark.

There are many good reasons why having regular maintenance on your air conditioning system is a necessity.  Without scheduling this type of appointment would be neglecting an expensive investment that was made to keep you and your family comfortable.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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3036 Yale St.
Houston, TX 77018
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Air Conditioning Tune Checklist


As springtime comes around, it is that time of year to call up your local, trusted HVAC specialist to schedule that annual tune-up for your air conditioner system.  As you make the call to make the appointment, you may be wondering just what exactly is on the checklist to get this completed?

You have been told by your warranty, the person who sold you your AC unit, as well as your trusted HVAC specialist, like Autumn Air, that it is important to stay on top of your annual tune-up, or preventative maintenance.  The big, main reason is so that your AC system is fully functional to its potential.

So let’s get down to the meat of the subject, what exactly is ticked off that mental checklist that all HVAC specialists follow to complete a tune-up?

During the time of your tune-up, which can take up to an hour and a half to complete, there are several things that your professional will not only check up on, but also do.

  • Thermostat – Making sure that your thermostat is functioning correctly, as it controls how long the AC runs as well as the temperature you wish your home to be at.
  • Air Filter – They will go take a look at the air filter to ensure that there is no buildup and that the air is flowing through without any disruptions.
  • Evaporator Coils – They will clean the coils of any dirt and debris to help prevent any buildup from forming.  This helps prevent compressor failure and makes sure that it functions efficiently.
  • Condensate Pan – Checking to make sure that there is not clog in the pan will help prevent any water damage or mildew growth.  They will also check to make sure that there are no cracks in the pan or loose fittings that can cause leaks.
  • Blower Motor and Wheel – Cleaning these will help keep a steady air flow and make sure that the entire system is running efficiently and prevent compressor failure.
  • Motors and Bearings – Your professional will then generously lubricate all equipment that rotates to make sure that it runs smoothly and does not fail.
  • Belts, Pulleys, and Alignments – Checking to make sure that no belts or pulleys have slipped and that everything is correctly aligned will help save you money as well as a costly energy bill.
  • Electrical Consumption – Checking this will help make sure that your AC system is running at optimum performance as well as protecting the equipment.
  • Visible Wear – Checking for visible wear can help avoid having to schedule a repair or service call down the road.
  • Panels – They will make sure that all panels are securely shut so that the system will operate properly.
  • Electrical Connections – This helps ensure that your AC gets the potential lifespan expected and also ensures safety for you and your family.
  • Disconnect Switch – Making sure that they are not worn and could become overheated and blow can prevent from service damage.
  • Temperature – Checking the temperature across the coils will help ensure that you are getting your full potential with comfort in your home.
  • Condenser Coil – If this coil is dirty, this can cause your refrigerant’s pressure to raise drastically which will raise your energy cost.
  • Condenser Fan Motor – Making sure that this is stable and functioning properly helps prevent you from having to make any service calls down the road, therefore saving you money.  Also making sure that the amp is working properly helps give you maximum performance.
  • Condenser Fan Blades – Making sure that these are not vibrating will help prevent a service call and any damage that could happen to the unit.
  • Reversing Valve – Having this operate correctly helps prevent any waste in energy.
  • Crankcase Heater – If this is not working correctly, it could cause your compressor to fail.
  • Relays and Contactors – If these are loose or worn down this can lead to either or both motor and compressor failures.
  • Capacitors – If they are bad, can lead to compressor and motor failure.
  • Safety Devices – Making sure all of these are functioning correctly will help make sure everything is operating safely.
  • Time Delay – Testing this will ensure that the AC unit does not try starting when there has been a disruption in power.
  • Defrost Assembly – If it is not operating properly it can cause a loss of heat and even shorten the life of the compressor.
  • Controls – Making sure these are fully functional will help save money, extend the AC’s life, and prevent any failures in the future.
  • Refrigeration Meter – Having this checked will make sure that there is not decrease in cooling capacity and prevent any increases in fuel costs and shortening the unit’s life.
  • Pressures and Gauges – The compressor can shut down if the refrigerant charge is not working.
  • Noise and Vibration Levels – This just promises comfort and extends the life of your equipment.
  • Compressor Amp – Promises full potential of performance.

From there your professional will complete the tune-up by making the final tests on operations, checking the water flow, and waxing the outdoor unit to protect it against weather.

Now bare in mind that some of these steps may not need to be done because it fully depends on the type of system you have.  There are ones that function on water pumps and others that function on heat pumps.  Be sure to speak to your professional if you have any specific questions or concerns about the process.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Autumn Air
3036 Yale St.
Houston, TX 77018
(713) 864-8368
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AC Tune Up Specials


When it comes to shopping, personal grooming, etc. we are always looking for the best deal, coupons, and specials.  The same always goes for maintenance or repair work, every person in the world is always looking to save money, which is not a bad thing.

It is just when you do not have a trusted, local HVAC specialist, it is always best to shopping around for one.  This meaning to check websites like Angie’s list for reviews, ask neighbors if they recommend anyone or if there is someone to avoid, or even Google+.  Research and get as much information as possible before deciding on a professional.

The reason to shop around is because you want to find someone that is legitimate, and will give you an honest opinion if there are any issues.  Unfortunately, there are scams going around about specials and deals that certain contractors may have going on.  These are contractors and specials and deals that are best left to avoid.

One scam that is going around is where it states that you need to schedule by a specific date to get this price.  Or ones that give you the option to purchase now so that you are able to save so much off their regular price, and if you do not then the price will be this other price.

These scams try to get homeowners to call and schedule an appointment before they have even had a chance to do any research or thought completely through.  A contractor is reputable; they more than likely would not try to pull stunts like this to bring in customers.  The gain customers by being reliable, honest, and trusted.

You will generally spend anywhere from $80 to $160 for a genuine preventative maintenance appointment.  If you are being offered for a company to come out for free or for as little as $30, beware.  These companies tend to come out and take a short look at your AC unit about 10 to 15 minutes when a true AC tune-up will take roughly an hour to an hour and a half.
Usually after their quick look around your AC, they tend to find something seriously wrong and wish to charge you a ridiculous amount to “fix” this issue.  These are the HVAC specialists that you definitely want to avoid.

Besides this scams that ask you to purchase right now before the special expires there are other scams that you need to avoid and here is how you can tell if you are being scammed.

When your HVAC contractor does find an issue, they usually explain to you what is going on and how much it could cost as well as what options you have.  Those who maybe scamming you usually have this specific sales pitch that they give you.

They try to work on your guilt or safety concerns, explaining how you need to fix this now or it could result in a serious safety issue or that you are not being a good parent or spouse if you do not.

They offer they are giving you is only good for right this moment.  Usually its recommended to get a second opinion on serious repairs or thoughts of a replacement, maybe even a third or fourth opinion too.  If they are not giving you the option to research or gain another opinion, that’s a big red flag.

If they are wanting the full amount up front is another red flag.  Generally, you will pay a deposit up front and the rest will be due once the work is completed.

Finally, if your gut is telling you that something is off, listen to it.  Most people tend to ignore their instincts when you should listen to them more often.

Just remember that there are certain ways a legitimate and honest contractor will act and certain ways that those who try to scam act as well.  Be vigilant and research as much as you can if you are not completely sure.  Never be afraid to gain another opinion or two.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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3036 Yale St.
Houston, TX 77018
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Friday, July 8, 2016

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Why is AC Repair so Expensive?


One of the worse things that can happen during a hot and humid summer in Houston, Texas is having your air conditioner break down.  Now you need to see about scheduling a repair appointment and pray that they can come out as soon as possible before you and your family melt into a puddle in your home.

Everyone dread this happening to them because the thing that pops into their mind is cost.  What is wrong and how much is it going to cost me to fix it?  There is always that fear and worry about if what you are being told is truth and if you really need to repair this one thing, or if they are just looking to worm more money out your pocket.

Figuring out just exactly why you are being charged so much for your air conditioning repair is just by looking at it this way.  They say that on average to have a contractor come out to your home the cost comes to around $75-$85 an hour.  Here is why:

One thing that you must bare in mind with HVAC contractors, they are certified by the state they are working in.  This means that they studied and worked and took this huge test that the state requires and passed.  This is a test that must be done occasionally so that they show that they are staying up to date with the rising technology surrounding air conditioning systems.

Also, the environment they are working in can be very demanding not to mention the temperatures as well.  Think about the areas they have to work in from working on an outdoor AC unit to one that in indoors up in an attic.  Then being able to troubleshoot the AC for issues as well as know how to handle each and every piece of equipment.

Now take in the contractor’s service vehicle and all of the equipment inside of it.  There are thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment inside with Freon, motors, specialty tools, capacitors, fuses, and much more.  They have everything they could possibly need for an on-site repair.

Then you take in the insurance for the vehicle that covers all the equipment, the vehicle itself, plus all the hazardous chemicals that they need to help your AC system operate.  The cost to drive that vehicle out to your home, and with gas prices the way they are and gas mileage on the large vehicle pulling as much weight it is carrying.  And on top of that the maintenance for the vehicle, we all know how much it costs for ours.

The last bit of this puzzle for AC repair costs is taxes, fees, and their insurance premiums that all small businesses are required to pay in order to employ their employees.

Once all of this added up and thought about, we can better understand why we are being charged what we are to have the repairs done.  And though we are always looking for the best deal we can find, always be aware of some companies that are trying to offer you a repair or service for under $80 because somewhere down the line they are making up for it by upselling or making unnecessary repairs.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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3036 Yale St.
Houston, TX 77018
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Who to Call For AC Repair


One of the biggest comforts in your home during the hot and humid Houston, Texas summer is your air conditioner unit.  When this is not operating properly that can wreck havoc on your comfort levels.  Unfortunately, this is one comfort in our homes that we do not really pay too much attention to until it’s on the fritz.  This, obviously, is not such a wise decision.

If you do end up needing to have your AC unit serviced, repaired, or even replaced then you would need to contact an HVAC specialist or contractor.  HVAC stands for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning.  A contractor or specialist is like a doctor who specializes in a specific field of study, they just specialize in heating and cooling units and ventilation.

They can install and maintain your units such as furnaces, air conditioners, boilers, and heat pumps.  Also, if you are in need for a new unit, they can help you find the right system for you and your home.

You may now be wondering just what is so special about an HVAC specialist and why its recommended to schedule an appointment with them instead of seeing if your local handyman can come out and take a look.  You could call and see if your handyman could come out, but there are some really serious reasons why you should not.

An HVAC contractor is someone that has been state-certified, which means has been checked with the state to ensure that they know just exactly what they are doing when they are testing and working on your AC.  They are usually licensed through the state and more than likely have certifications and affiliations as well.

HVAC contractors will also have insurance that consists of worker’s compensation and liability.  This protects you against potential law suits if anyone is hurt during the job or damage occurs.

The last big reason is because HAVC contractors work on and with air conditioners day in and day out each day.  Most handymen are not as knowledgeable, especially when AC systems are changing constantly and becoming more and more complicated.
All in all, when you have someone needing to work on something in your home, for example, like your electrical, you do not call a plumber to come out and attempt to fix the issue.  They do not have the knowledge base to know what to do or if there are any issues they run into, how to work them out.

Hiring an HVAC contractor can save you both time and money down the road.  Also, if you look to sell your home down the road, if something was not fixed or installed properly, that can cost you more to fix it before you would be able to place the home on the market.

When you are looking for an HVAC contractor be sure to do your research.  Ask neighbors and friends if they have needed to call one and if there is anyone that they would recommend.  Check to make sure that they are licensed and insured.  On any of their paperwork like their quote sheet, website, or business card should have their license number that you can check at www.nclicnensing.org.

Make sure that you always protect both your home and yourself when you see about hiring someone for air conditioning repair or anything else in your home.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

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Autumn Air
3036 Yale St.
Houston, TX 77018
(713) 864-8368
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When To Call AC Repair


At one time or another everyone has had to call up their trusted HVAC contractor to come out and see if they need air conditioning repair done to their unit.  This is especially expected in Houston, Texas with how hard our hot and humid summers can work our AC units.  So it definitely is best to become familiar with your AC system and know when a professional need to be called out for AC repair.

The absolute best way to avoid needing to have your AC repaired is by making sure that you keep up on the maintenance.  Making sure that you change out your air filters regularly and that nothing is blocking both the outdoor unit as well as any vents and registers in your house will help.

The most important thing is to make sure that you schedule the annual preventative maintenance, which is also known as your AC tune-up.  This ensures that your entire AC system is functioning to its full potential as well as makes sure that there are no potential issues that can happen down the road.  The HVAC contractor will also make sure that your entire system is nicely cleaned and well lubricated.

Though it is always best to make sure that you do not put off any potential issues that happen with you AC as it could cause further problems or damage, it is best to check these few things first to make sure it is not a more simply problem.

Check your thermostat, make sure that it set to the right temperature and that it has been switch from heat to cool.  This may sound very stupid and simple, but it has been known to happen and can end up saving you some money not having a professional come out just to tell you it was your thermostat.

Check the drainage to make sure that there are no clogs.  If there is a small pool of water that is around or under your air conditioner, it could mean that you have a clogged drain.  If you are able to see the blockage, you can easily just clean it out and this should solve the problem.

Make sure that your air filter is not dirty and needs cleaned or changed.  It is best to have this done about a month or so, this will prevent any air disruption or further problems from happening.

Making sure that nothing is blocking your outdoor unit such as dirt, debris, glass clippings, or more.  These can cause air disruptions and potential more issues or damage to your unit.  Also having shrubs or bushes too close to your unit can do the same.

If you have checked all of these off the list and you are still having issues with your air conditioning unit then now is the time to called your trusted HVAC contractor and schedule an appointment to come out and troubleshoot your system to find out just what is wrong.

If your air conditioning system is not operating correctly or is in need of its annual maintenance to prevent potential issues, please contact us today to schedule your appointment.  Do not be strand in the blasting heat of Houston, Texas summer without a cool home.

http://ift.tt/28RDwfD
Autumn Air
3036 Yale St.
Houston, TX 77018
(713) 864-8368
http://ift.tt/28TXIQF
http://ift.tt/28RDww6


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