HVAC contractors Archives - Richmonds Air Houston

3 Secrets HVAC Repair Companies Don’t Want You to Know

October 23, 2017 by Richmond’s Air

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are not one-size-fits-all, but many companies may lead you to believe this is true. This can cause homeowners a huge headache and expense, especially during the times of the year when comfort is easily compromised by the weather outside.

How long since your heating unit was last checked?
Don’t get stuck out in the cold!

At Richmond’s Air, we’ve been doing heating and furnace repairs right since 2002. Our work is 100% guaranteed by a 1-year parts and labor warranty on repairs.

Houston Heating & Repair Service

Here are three secrets your HVAC company may not want you to know:

1. Keep size in mind

The size of your home should directly correlate with the size of the HVAC unit you buy. A unit that’s too large will not only be more expensive, but its cooling and heating pace may be too rapid for smaller homes. This can quickly cause issues like higher energy usage and more repairs.

The takeaway: Make sure your HVAC company measures your home accurately.

2. Second opinions are a smart idea

If your HVAC technician tells you that one or more parts of your HVAC unit need to be replaced, you don’t have to take their word for it right away. In fact, it may pay off to seek a second opinion when it comes to dropping some serious cash on replacement parts that may or may not be needed.

The takeaway: Go with your gut, do your research, and never feel pressured to accept repairs or maintenance immediately.

3. Free HVAC services are rarely worth it

If you see advertisements offering free HVAC service deals, don’t simply jump at the chance. It’s still important to research various HVAC companies before deciding which is best for you and your needs. Read online reviews or ask friends and family which companies they’ve had success with in the past.

The takeaway: Even if the offer isn’t free, it may be worth it in the end to go with a company you can trust.

Bonus tip!

Always make sure that any repairs or maintenance done to your HVAC is put in writing or you’re given a receipt that clearly shows you all charges and procedures.

Richmond’s Air continues to provide the Houston area with reliable, trustworthy HVAC services. Give our experienced HVAC contractors a call to schedule a professional visit.

We also invite you to check out our blog to learn more about saving energy and actively maintaining your HVAC system.

Richmond’s Air Helps Harvey Victims By Offering Reduced Pricing on Professional Flood Inspections

September 19, 2017 by Richmond’s Air

In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, Houston and all of Southeast Texas is just beginning the long and daunting recovery process. So many thousands of people are facing destroyed homes as well as the daunting cleanup process that must follow such destruction.

With such widespread flooding and damage, so many private homes are also facing flooded or damaged HVAC systems. While HVAC may not be your first priority, Richmond’s Air would like to help deter some of the stress by focusing on what we know best: heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

Our commitment to helping our friends, family and neighbors impacted by Harvey is why we’ve chosen to offer a special deal for those affected to begin their HVAC repair/replacement and home repairs.

Right now, Hurricane Harvey victims can receive professional flood inspections for $65 through Richmond’s Air. Additionally, those without insurance can also receive 20% off this inspection service.

Professional flood inspections will help you appraise the exact amount of damage done and an idea of how much money it may cost to restore your home.

Our service area extends to Houston and other Southeast Texas communities, including:

Bellaire
Katy
Spring (…including The Woodlands)
Sugar Land
University Place

To schedule your professional flood inspection, contact Richmond’s Air today.

From Richmond’s Air, we wish all those affected by Hurricane Harvey the best during the recovery and repair process that we’re all facing. Stay safe, everyone.

Sounds of Trouble: What’s Your A/C Telling You?

June 12, 2017 by Richmond’s Air

Listening to your air conditioner can be one of the fastest and most tell-tale ways to identify potential problems with your system. Any rattling or humming could be a sign that something is wrong.

Familiarizing yourself with sounds that are considered unusual for an AC unit is the first step to listening for problems so, without further ado, here are a few notable sounds that could spell trouble for your AC system.

Metallic Sounds

Metallic sounds could include rattling, clanking or any grinding noises. This likely means that the mechanical parts of your air conditioner either need to be replaced or are malfunctioning. Going unchecked, metallic sounds could lead to more serious (and expensive) problems later.

Buzzing

Buzzing sounds could mean that the electrical components of your unit contain a short. This sound should be investigated by a professional very soon, especially since shorts can start electrical fires if not fixed.

Bubbling or Gurgling

Bubbling or gurgling sounds are likely caused by a refrigerant leak in the compressor, and this means that your AC isn’t working as efficiently as it could be. Leaking refrigerant not only ups your energy bill, but it can be toxic for the environment as well. Have bubbling or gurgling sounds checked out as soon as possible.

Wailing

Wailing coming from your air conditioning unit could be caused by a faulty fan belt. Lubricant, reattaching the existing belt or replacing the belt altogether can usually solve this problem.

If you notice your air conditioner making any strange noises, call the Houston air conditioner technicians at Richmond’s Air. We offer installation, repair and regular maintenance services for all of your residential HVAC needs. Contact us today to schedule a visit.

Heavy Rain Fall and How it Affects Your AC System

May 22, 2017 by Richmond’s Air

With spring fully upon us, flowers and allergens are also accompanied by more rainfall. If you have an outdoor air conditioning unit, you may be a bit concerned about the heavy rain damaging your system.

Luckily, most AC owners have no reason to worry.

Rain and Your Heating/Cooling System

Even though air conditioning systems contain electrical parts and is exposed to the elements on a daily basis, systems are designed in a way that allows the system to function properly even in a heavy rainstorm.

Most electrical or damageable components are sealed in order to insure that water will not infiltrate and damage the system. This means that, during normal rainfall, homeowners do not have to worry about damaged AC systems at all.

What About Flooding?

Flooding, however, can do a bit of damage to your AC system. While your system is protected from rain water, it’s not designed to withstand sitting in flood water for hours or even days at a time.

Any rain or flooding that exceeds 15 inches should be considered a concern. Additionally, storms with high winds can also damage your AC with debris.

What You Can Do

Many AC owners wonder if they should cover their air conditioning system if heavy rain is expected; however, this is not required. It should be noted that if you do decide to cover your system, use a cover that’s made from breathable fabric (your manufacturer will sell covers that fit your system). Choosing plastic or a tarp covering can do more damage since condensation can be caught inside causing rust or mildew to thrive.

If you have more questions about protecting your AC unit or would like to schedule maintenance, the professionals at Richmond’s Air can help. Contact us today to see what we can do for you.

Why is Your A/C Leaking Water?

April 4, 2017 by Richmond’s Air

Possible Reasons Your A/C is Leaking Water

Have you noticed that your air conditioner or heater is leaking water? There are several possible reasons for this, but whatever the cause, you’ll want to call in a professional AC technician to troubleshoot your system.

In the meantime, here are some common reasons why your residential AC may be leaking.

1. The condensate drain is clogged

The condensate drain in the air conditioner works to carry away accumulated water from the unit. However, if rust, dirt, debris, or algae build up in the drain, it can obstruct and clog it, causing water to accumulate inside the unit. This can result in water overflow and leakage from the air conditioner, potentially causing water damage and operational problems.

2. The drain line is disconnected

Even if your AC is installed correctly, it’s not unheard of for the drain line to become loose over time. If it gets loose enough, it can completely disconnect from your AC. The drain line is responsible for channeling the excess water away from the air conditioner, so when it is disconnected, the system cannot effectively manage the condensate, resulting in your A C leaking water.

3. The condensate pump is broken

When the condensate pump is broken, it can’t effectively remove the excess water from the condenser pan. Consequently, the pan becomes filled with water and may begin to overflow or leak. The broken condensate pump hampers the drainage process, leading to the accumulation of water and subsequent overflow or leakage from the pan.

4. The refrigerant level is too low

When the AC refrigerant level in an air conditioner is too low, it can result in inadequate cooling and temperature regulation. This can cause the evaporator coil to become excessively cold and freeze up. Once the coil thaws, the excess water produced cannot be properly drained, which results in the AC dripping water as the drip pan overflows.

5. The air filter is dirty

Regular AC maintenance, including replacing your air filter, is key to preventing frozen evaporator coils. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, hindering the evaporator coil’s ability to properly release heat. This can cause the coils to become excessively cold and eventually freeze. When the ice melts, the resulting moisture overwhelms the drip pan, leading to overflow and potential leaks.

6. The evaporator coil is frozen

The AC evaporator coil can freeze due to a few reasons. One common cause is restricted airflow, which can occur when air filters are dirty or when air vents are blocked. When there is inadequate airflow over the coil, it becomes excessively cold and causes condensation to freeze on its surface. Low refrigerant levels or a malfunctioning expansion valve can also lead to an imbalance in the cooling process, causing the evaporator coil to freeze. If your AC is leaking water because of a frozen evaporator coil, then the ice on it has probably begun to melt.

7. The drain pipe is damaged

If the drain pan in an older unit is rusted or otherwise damaged, it can stop the water from reaching the condensate line, resulting in a potential water leak. This can cause water to leak inside the home if the condensate is not filtered correctly by the damaged drain pan, leading to gradual water damage if not addressed.

8. The AC system isn’t installed correctly

Poor installation practices, such as improper connection of refrigerant lines, loose fittings, or improper sealing, can cause refrigerant to escape. As a result, the cooling system may not function efficiently, leading to water leakage from the unit due to condensation buildup and drainage issues. Proper installation is crucial to ensure the AC system operates effectively and prevents leaks.

9. The coils are dirty

Whenever your evaporator coils get dirty, it can restrict their ability to allow water to drip down into the drain pan. Instead, water will back up on the debris stuck to the dirty coils and end up overflowing. Simply removing the debris from your coils will allow water to flow down easily into the drain pan as it should.

10. The insulation is damaged

If you’ve noticed that your AC is leaking water slightly, it could be due to a problem with your piping insulation. Some AC pipes will have insulation on them to prevent condensation from forming. However, if there are damaged sections of the insulation or even holes in it, your AC system could start to drip. Identifying the damaged insulation and replacing it with new insulation is a fairly straightforward process.

11. The temperature is too cold to run your AC

If you try to get the unit to cool your home when it’s cold outside, it can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. Once the ice begins to melt, it can result in excess water that the unit is not designed to handle, leading to leakage from the air conditioner. To avoid this problem, don’t run your AC when the temperature is below 60 degrees.

Get help from the HVAC professionals at Richmond’s Air

It’s normal for a well-functioning AC to produce a little bit of condensation at times. The more your AC is on and running, the more condensation you’ll have. However, when excess water is regularly leaking from the unit, you don’t want to ignore it.

If you notice that your AC has been leaking for more than a day, contact an experienced AC technician at Richmond’s Air right away. We’ve been Houston’s most trusted residential HVAC experts since 2002, servicing ALL major home AC and heating systems. Contact us today to discuss all your heating and cooling needs.

How long since your heating unit was last checked? Don’t get stuck out in the cold!