Do I need central air in Houston?
Houston is a hot and humid city, and central air may be necessary if you live there. Temperatures can reach well into the 90s (and even the 100s), and the humidity can be oppressive.
Households with very young children, elderly persons or people with certain medical conditions should strongly consider installing central air. Central air may also help prevent mold growth in homes by removing humidity from the air.
Contact Houston's best HVAC pros to get free estimates and start planning your central air installation project today.
How do I find a good HVAC contractor in Houston?
The simplest way to locate Houston’s best HVAC or AC contractors is by searching for pros online. You can view the top-rated pros and compare their customer ratings and reviews. Don’t skip over any photos or images of the contractors’ past work. Review them carefully so you can get an idea of the contractors’ craftsmanship and skills.
You should also research the pros’ background and qualifications. Do they have any certifications, licenses or other credentials? You can ask the pro this question, or you may be able to find this information online as well. For example, by visiting the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation website, you might be able to find out if the contractors have an air conditioning and refrigeration license.
Now, you’re finally ready to start gathering free estimates. Contact the top HVAC contractors in your area, and ask how much it will cost to install, repair or maintain your air conditioning unit or HVAC system. Choose the best pro for your needs based on the quotes they give you and the research you’ve conducted.
Why is my air conditioner leaking water?
An air conditioner leaking inside the house is a common problem. It could indicate that the air filter is dirty. Or, one of the following may be the culprit:
- Clogged condensate drain line
- Leaky, damaged, cracked or rusted drain pan
- Dirty or broken coils
- Frozen evaporator coils
- Broken condensate pump
- Not enough refrigerant
- Disconnected drain line
If your AC is leaking, contact a repair service to find out what the problem is — and how much it will cost to fix it.
Is it worth it to install central air?
Depending on where you live, it might be worth it to install central air. Central air makes your house comfortable on hot summer days. And although it’s hard to predict if adding central air will increase your home’s value, prospective homebuyers will certainly notice if it’s missing.
Another advantage of central air is that it can help dehumidify your home. Not only will it make your home more comfortable and enjoyable, but it can also help prevent mold from growing or spreading.
Contact the best HVAC contractors near you to learn more about the central air installation process and to start receiving free estimates.
Can I install central air myself?
While you may be able to do some preparation work for central air installation, you should hire a licensed contractor to complete the project and handle the air conditioning refrigerants.
Also, unless you have the proper credentials, you risk making common mistakes when installing central air. This may include installing the wrong-size furnace, improperly installing ductwork and exhaust systems, and incorrectly managing drainage.
To ensure your central air is installed correctly, contact the best HVAC pros near you and start getting free estimates today.
Does central air add value to a home?
A central air unit or HVAC system may add value to your home. Or, if you’re in the process of selling your home, it may help you close a sale.
The Remodeling Impact report found that 20% of realtors have suggested that home sellers replace their HVAC before attempting to sell their homes, and 7% said this project did help close a sale.
Talk with an expert to figure out if adding an HVAC system is a good idea for your home. And contact the best HVAC pros near you to get free estimates so you’ll know how much this project will cost you.
Does an HVAC technician need to enter my home?
Because most HVAC systems are located in the home, it’s likely that an HVAC technician would need to enter yours when working on the projects. However, there might be exceptions. Some HVAC systems are located in garages or in areas of the house that are sectioned off. During the consultation, ask your technician if they'll need to enter your home.
When you contact local technicians, ask if they’ll perform a video call in place of a traditional consultation. Be sure to send all materials like photos and documents digitally, and comply with all relevant guidelines.
Do HVAC technicians offer remote or virtual services?
Because HVAC technicians need to be physically present to do their work, they have not conventionally offered remote or virtual services. However, with the importance of social distancing due to COVID-19, the need for remote capabilities is greater than ever. If you come across a profile that states the HVAC technician or AC professional is offering remote services, message the pro to find out what those services include.
Consult with your technician to see if the technician will be able to perform a video call consultation. You can find local technicians near you by searching online.
What’s the best way to set up a consultation or an appointment with a HVAC technician during the COVID-19 pandemic?
To set up a safe consultation or appointment with an HVAC technician during the COVID-19 pandemic, start by comparing technicians in your area in an online search. Message or call technicians to ask whether they can perform a consultation over the phone or even over a video call. This way, they can assess the problem without increasing the risk of virus transmission by visiting your house.
If it turns out the service is essential, you’ll need to follow CDC guidelines as well as local government guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety.
Can I use digital payments to pay for central air conditioning services?
The use of digital payment platforms -- like Google Pay, PayPal, Zelle, Venmo and Square Cash -- is common among air conditioning technicians. Currently, the COVID-19 pandemic is improving the adoption of these platforms as a means of helping social distancing.
As you compare local air conditioning technicians online, contact them to see if they’ll accept digital payments. Also, discuss strategies for completing the job while complying with safety guidelines for reducing the risk of exposure.
