A Winter HVAC Maintenance Guide for Homeowners in Jasper, TX
Your furnace might be one of the most unnoticed features of your home. That is until you wake up on the coldest winter morning and there's no heat in your house.
How does your furnace know when it's the coldest and when an HVAC repair will be the most challenging?
While this issue is undoubtedly an inconvenience, it can also be dangerous for you, your family, and your home. What if you weren't home when the furnace shut down?
One way to be prepared for the cold months of the year is with winter HVAC maintenance. What does that include for your HVAC system?
Read on to learn more about winter HVAC maintenance and why it's essential for you to schedule it.
Do Annual Maintenance
Most HVAC specialists recommend that homeowners sign up for annual maintenance plans for their HVAC systems.
Most suggest that your furnace be checked out in the early fall before the cold of winter sets in. Then having the AC system checked out in early spring before the heat of summer sets in.
There are a host of benefits to regular maintenance of your HVAC system.
First, regular maintenance can help to lower your energy bills. When a furnace isn't running at its best, it can use more energy, costing more to run.
Another benefit is preventing the chance of a more expensive furnace repair. An HVAC specialist checks out your system during maintenance checks. Any issues brewing in your system can be addressed before they become a big and expensive repair.
Nobody likes the idea of replacing a furnace, especially in the coldest months of winter. When your furnace gets regular maintenance and repairs, it will run longer. An efficient furnace will have a longer life than one running inefficiently.
When your furnace is running at its best, it also helps to keep the air quality in your home in good shape. If you don't perform regular maintenance and have old, dirty filters in your furnace, you can pump dusty and dirty air through your vents and into your home.
Preventative Maintenance Guide
Preventative maintenance is always better than emergency repair. Twice a year checkups of your furnace and AC system, keep them running at their best when you need them most.
What type of maintenance might depend on several factors, including:
- HVAC system age
- Size of HVAC system
- Demands on your system
- Brand and warranty plans for your HVAC system
- Condition of the system
There are some things that are especially important for fall and winter HVAC maintenance checklists.
It's important to:
- Replace the furnace filters
- Check heating elements
- Check out the wiring and any electrical connections
- Replace batteries in thermostats
- Check the heat pump
- Check the flue system
In general, it makes sense to have a professional furnace look over the critical parts of your furnace before the furnace is needed for cold weather.
Use These Winter HVAC Maintenance Tips
Winter HVAC maintenance tips are important, so you don't wake up in the middle of a cold February morning to a non-working furnace. Regular checkups help keep your furnace running well and also help to avoid a major repair.
If you want to schedule maintenance in Jasper and the Great Lakes area, contact us at A1 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning for a professional checkup today.
How to Maintain Your Commercial Walk-in Cooler in Brookeland, TX
A commercial walk-in cooler is important for your business to keep products under temperature control. They're sturdy, reliable, and able to keep a large number of items chilled.
But do you know how to maintain your cooler properly all year round so that it doesn't spoil your products?
In this guide, we'll give you cooler maintenance tips. Read on for more.
Clean the Condensing Unit Regularly
The condensing unit is a crucial part of the walk-in cooler. They contain important elements for your cooler such as:
- Compressor
- Condensing fan motor
- Condensing coil
Get to grips with where this component's found. It's usually on the top, outside, or underneath the cooler.
Schedule it for a cleaning every month. First, turn off the power and clear out all the dirt with a vacuum.
Ensure Lights Get Turned off When Not Using
Always ensure the lights become switched off when the cooler isn't in use. The lighting makes the cooler warmer, forces it to work overtime, and uses up more energy.
You can set the lights to turn off when it's not in use through a controlled setting system.
Clean All Surfaces
It's great to make sure surfaces are cleaned regularly, say once per month again or every week. All surfaces should be cleared - it keeps them sterile. Wipe down spillages often to ensure surfaces are fresh.
Try not to use chemicals that may cause more harm than good. Rather, use softer cleansers and water. Do it with care and clear away spills with a cloth.
Maintain Optimal Temperature Control
Temperature control settings are crucial to keep an eye on and ensure they're turned to the correct settings. But don't try it at home yourself - have your technician come and have a look at it. That way, you'll know it's set to the right temperature.
If notice any obscure noises or spot unforeseen alterations in its functionality, it might be worth calling your technician.
Inspect Door Seals Often
The door seals are also critical for maintaining and ensuring your cooler remains at the right temperature. They keep air from making its way in through the sides of the cooler. Checking them takes very little time, so it should be done monthly.
If they're still working fine, it's not a bad idea to have them changed yearly. This makes sure they'll always be in proper working order.
The doors are flexible yet powerfully built. If the materials start wearing away, or the door seals look like they might start to pull off or become easily broken, look for a company to replace them. Your door seals are more important than you might think for temperature control.
For Walk-In Cooler Maintenance in Jasper, TX Contact A1 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Your walk-in cooler should always be maintained so that you can keep the temperature correct and ensure its remains working for long. Here, we've also shown you the walk-in cooler benefits.
Get in with the refrigeration company that proudly serves you in Texas and the surrounding areas. Schedule your call today and let's get chatting about what we can do for you.
3 Reasons to Hire an AC Repair Service in Jasper, TX
Jasper, TX, is one of the most comfortable places in Texas to live. Its average summer high of 92.5°F makes it cooler than most places in the state. The winters are also mild, with 0 inches of snowfall on average. Now that we're entering winter, it's a great time to schedule AC repair. \
The weather is mild, and you don't have to rely on your AC to get you through the day. But why else should you take this opportunity to call in AC repair services?
Let's look at three reasons why every Jasper, TX, homeowner should do just that.
1. Protect Your Warranty and Investment
Residential HVAC systems are expensive. On average, it costs $7,500 to install a new system. So it makes sense to keep your current one in good condition for as long as possible.
Most new AC units come with a warranty, typically in the 5-10 year range. To protect that warranty, you need to call an AC repair company when you have any problems. Carry out the repair yourself as an unqualified person, and you're almost certain to invalidate the warranty.
AC repair companies are licensed and bonded. Their technicians often have many years of experience in servicing and repairing different brands of HVAC equipment. You can trust them to troubleshoot and carry out your AC repair according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
With regular maintenance and repairs, your HVAC system could last up to twenty years.
2. Fast, Reliable Repairs
When you call a Jasper AC repair company, they will come with a truck full of tools and parts. Their goal is to complete the job on the same day. There's no need for you to search online for parts and wait for delivery.
They also have the expertise to recognize when a consumable part is close to wearing out. For example, refrigerant leaks are a common problem with AC units. They will check the refrigerant levels, track down any leaks, and carry out repairs to keep your AC running smoothly.
AC repair services use quality parts and follow industry standards. You can have confidence that their repairs will stand the test of time. Many contractors will offer a warranty on their repairs.
3. Achieve Peak Efficiency
If your AC unit works but uses huge amounts of electricity, you've got a problem. An AC repair service can take a look at your HVAC system and work out what the problem is. They can carry out repairs that will help it to function as efficiently as possible, saving you money on your energy bills.
Call A1 for AC Repair
Winter is the perfect time to carry out any AC repairs your system needs. Taking care of small repairs and scheduling regular maintenance can help to prevent bigger issues in the future.
You can trust A1 Refrigeration & Air Conditioning with your AC repair. We've been carrying out AC repair in Jasper, TX, since 1968. Our technicians and installers are fully qualified and insured.
Call or text us at (409)-207-1709 or schedule a service online today!
5 Tips for Hiring Commercial Refrigeration Services in Brookeland, TX
Did you know that cavemen put their mammoth meat in shallow ponds that contained bacteria which helped extend the expiration date of the food? Our ancestors had many great ways to save their food and other goods before the invention of refrigeration options, but nothing beats modern technology. However, that doesn't mean even the best tech is immune to hiccups and other issues. This is why it's important to have an expert who can help out. Keep reading to learn all about 5 tips for hiring commercial refrigeration services in Brookeland, TX.
1. Double-Check Their Qualifications
Before you even consider refrigerator options, it's essential to make sure anyone you hire is not only qualified but certified. Simply put, it's not legal to work on commercial refrigeration equipment without the appropriate license.
Having an unqualified and unlicensed individual operate on your equipment can end up being a disaster for everyone involved, including your customers.
2. Check Out Their Feedback
Any refrigeration services that are worth their weight in gold will have plenty of online reviews you can pore over. This will go a long way toward giving you peace of mind.
It'll also allow you to narrow down your list of potential service providers. Be sure to note both the aggregate score and the number of reviews. It's much easier to maintain a high score when there aren't many reviews in the first place.
3. Ask About Warranties and Guarantees
The last thing you'd want to do is pay for several refrigeration service options only to have your equipment breakdown in a couple of days. A reputable service provider will make things right, but only if they have certain warranties you can rely on.
Before signing on the dotted line, it's always best to ask what kinds of protection you have in the event of something going wrong down the line.
4. Get the Details About Their Services
Not all commercial refrigeration options are alike. Some contractors can only perform certain tasks on certain equipment. Instead of wasting time and money, you should find out what they're capable of in the first place.
If they aren't familiar with your setup, then that could result in a costly mistake.
5. Learn About Their Payment Expectations
When you're looking to sign up for a long-term service from a provider in the Texas area, for instance, you should know what to expect from the payment cycle.
Whether someone is yearly or monthly can make a huge difference.
Are You Ready to Get Commercial Refrigeration Services?
Now that you've learned all about 5 tips for hiring commercial refrigeration services in Brookeland, TX, you can make sure that your stock always stays cool and fresh. Your customers will certainly appreciate the difference in quality that reliable refrigeration brings.
If you're having issues or want regular preventative maintenance, then look no further than our highly-rated services. We're located in Jasper, Texas and can serve the surrounding areas as well. Our experts excel at refrigeration, air conditioning, appliance, and more.
Contact us now to schedule an appointment.
Is It Time for Furnace Repair? 5 Signs and Symptoms | Brookeland, TX
Did you know that furnaces are one of the most popular ways that Americans heat their homes?
Furnaces may be powerful and last for many years, but every homeowner must understand that there will be plenty of maintenance and repairs over the years to keep everything running smoothly.
Have you ever wondered, "How do I know if I need to find furnace repair near me?" Keep reading so you can understand the top five signs that you may need to look into furnace repair in Brookeland, Texas.
1. You May Need Furnace Repair If Your Bills Are Too High
One of the top reasons why you should consider Googling "heating and cooling near me" is that your electric bills are much higher than they should be. It's true that your bills can get more expensive in the summer and winter when these systems work harder, but there shouldn't be any jaw-dropping jumps.
When in doubt, it's always best to get professional help so you can get a proper diagnosis and fix anything that may be wrong.
2. Your Furnace Turns Off and On Often
Have you ever noticed that your furnace seems to be turning on and off more often than you've heard in the past? When this occurs, it's called short-cycling and it's terrible for the lifespan of your furnace.
The good news is that you can minimize damage by getting this issue repaired as soon as you suspect that something isn't working right.
3. Your Furnace Is Leaking
It's never good to have a furnace leaking in Brookeland, TX. While furnaces create heat and steam, these systems are designed to keep water out of your home to prevent issues like mold growth.
If you notice a puddle near your furnace, then it needs to get looked at right away. This water can damage the machinery. Leaking around your home could indicate an issue with your ducts.
4. You Keep Hearing or Smelling Strange Things
It's not unusual to hear your furnace when it turns off and on as long as it doesn't happen often. There could be a problem when you start hearing other sounds that aren't familiar to you.
Bad odors also are a cause to get professional help ASAP since this could mean that there's a dangerous leak or another pressing issue.
5. Your Home Isn't Heating Evenly
When a furnace works at full efficiency, your home should be at the same temperature no matter where you go. Uneven heating is not only a nuisance, but it's a telltale sign that something is wrong with your furnace.
Once the issue is resolved, you won't have to worry about unnecessary wear and tear.
Do You Need Furnace Repair Free Estimate in Brookeland?
Sometimes it's not easy to know when you need professional furnace repair. After reading this guide, you'll be able to tell when you need to reach out.
Are you on the hunt for the best AC companies in Brookeland, TX? Contact us to get an estimate and schedule your appointment.
When to Call a Professional Refrigeration Repair Company in Jasper, TX
Every minute that passes with a broken commercial refrigerator means a loss of income.
Every sensible business owner knows how vital refrigeration is in food service operations. Keeping food out of the "danger zone" is why you invested in commercial refrigerators. A faulty refrigeration system could result in losing customer trust and facing health violations.
Considering the heat and humidity in Jasper, TX, the margin of error for keeping your products at the right temperature is razor-thin. Recognizing the need for refrigeration repair can prevent your business from being in hot water.
Let's discuss the signs that prompt a visit from your friendly refrigeration repair professional.
Knock, Knock
If that sound isn't coming from the ice-maker, there's trouble brewing. A knocking noise may indicate a problem with the condenser or a fan motor. Other worrisome noises include high-pitched squealing, rattling, clicking, or loud humming.
Of course, it's normal for commercial refrigerators to make some level of noise. For example, the compressor generates a low buzzing or humming sound during its operation. But if it's so loud that you can hear it from the next room, it's time to call a professional for refrigeration repair service.
That's Not Sweat
Excessive condensation looks like your refrigerator is "sweating" on the inside and outside. This issue is, for the most part, temporary and due to high humidity or a case of people leaving the door open for too long. However, it could also mean that there's an underlying mechanical problem that needs fixing.
You could be dealing with drainage problems or damaged rubber gaskets that can't keep a tight seal. If you don't address them, your condensation troubles will continue. Extra moisture can become a catalyst for biological growth and spoilage.
Another potential problem is the loss of efficiency that often comes with these issues. When the gasket seals fail, the unit lets warm air in and allows cool air to escape. The motor has to work harder to maintain a constant temperature which could hasten wear and tear.
Refrigeration Repair for Leaks
Water leaks can damage your floors or the refrigerator's electrical components. If you let the leak persist, it's only a matter of time until you're dealing with molds. A clogged pipe or hose is usually to blame for water leaks.
The more serious matter is a refrigerant leak which is a safety and environmental hazard. The Environmental Protection Agency has strict regulations for refrigerant leak repair. To ensure compliance, owners must take corrective action if an appliance starts leaking this chemical.
And not just any qualified electrician or repairman can do this job. According to the EPA, technicians that handle ozone-depleting refrigerants must be certified. Only hire a technician who has earned a Section 608 Certification from an EPA-approved organization.
Do You Notice Signs of Refrigeration Problems?
As a business owner, the last thing you want is any downtime from your commercial refrigeration unit. What's best for business is to call a professional for refrigeration repair ASAP if you notice any of the signs above.
If your business happens to be in Jasper, TX, you're in luck. We at A1 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning pride ourselves on being the most reliable appliance repair company in the area.
Please call us at (409) 207-1709 or contact us using our online contact form.
How to Choose the Right Commercial Refrigeration Equipment for Your Business in Woodville, TX
Every year, about 30-40% of the food supply is thrown away - with 31% of that coming from retail and consumers. The right refrigeration equipment allows you to reduce food waste and save money. As a Woodville, TX business owner, you want the best equipment you can afford.
Read on to learn more about how to choose commercial refrigeration equipment for your business.
How to Choose the Right Refrigeration Equipment
The right commercial refrigeration equipment keeps your merchandise fresh for as long as possible. If you choose the wrong kind or go with a low-quality product, it can end up costing you more in the long run.
Choosing the most economical option isn't simple. It requires asking the right questions about commercial refrigeration equipment. Here are a few features you should look into when deciding on what to buy.
Functionality
Is your stock being displayed in a storefront? If so, you want something that allows for easy access. Make sure the doors are easy to open for customers and that the temperature control is simple and easily used by employees.
Another aspect of functionality is the ease of cleaning. You want something easy to clean. Especially if you're going to be putting potentially messy items in there.
Energy Usage
One of the most important questions about refrigeration equipment relates to a unit's energy usage. The long-term energy costs of commercial refrigeration equipment vary widely. You want to make sure you don't negatively impact your profits by purchasing equipment that's expensive to run.
Look for newer energy-efficient equipment rather than buying older models.
Look Into Lifetime Maintenance
Your commercial refrigeration equipment must be kept in good condition to get the most value out of it. To keep things up and running, you should have a commercial refrigeration service perform maintenance at least once a year.
Yearly maintenance might seem like a lot. However, broken refrigeration equipment usually leads to spoiled goods and profit loss. Routine maintenance extends the life of your equipment, and potential issues can be addressed before they become major problems.
Buy the Right Size
People are usually less likely to buy something if it doesn't look appetizing. When refrigeration equipment is over-stuffed, it looks messy and unappealing. When it's under-stuffed, it looks like you're stuck buying what other people didn't want.
Neither of those situations is likely to lead to a sale. Make sure that the size of your refrigeration unit(s) is large enough to fit your merchandise but small enough not to look sparse.
Keep Your Refrigeration Equipment Running Smooth with A1 Refrigeration & Air Conditioning
Our business started in 1968 with the sale of air conditioners and appliances. As time went on, our business grew and developed into a full-service appliance company. We strive to provide outstanding service for refrigeration equipment in Jasper, TX, and The Lakes Area with the professionalism and courtesy you deserve.
To learn more about what we can do for you, contact us today.
4 Qualities to Look For in AC Companies in Woodville, TX
Heating and air services are a huge part of the US economy. There are well over 100,000 HVAC companies spread across the USA.
With so many different AC companies on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. There are a lot of different factors to consider. But making the wrong decision can leave you out of pocket or with malfunctioning HVAC units.
If you're looking for ways to find the best HVAC services in Woodville, TX, and surrounding towns, stay cool. Read on for some handy tips!
1. Choose AC Companies With Experience
Choosing an inexperienced AC company can be a fatal error. If you work with a newly-formed business, you're much more likely to get poor-quality service.
A company with plenty of experience can rise to meet any challenge. They'll be used to fixing all kinds of issues with HVAC systems.
Here at A1 Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, we're proud of our status as one of the most experienced HVAC companies in the Jasper, TX area. We opened our doors in 1968, and since then we've served thousands of people in the area.
2. A Free Evaluation
When your HVAC units break down, you may not know exactly what the problem is. If you're an average person without much knowledge of heating and air, you're unlikely to understand the intricacies of your units.
That's why you may need a technician to come and evaluate the situation before paying for work. An HVAC professional should be able to look at your unit, assess the damage, and give you a rough idea of how much repairs will cost.
Not only is this kind of service helpful and convenient, but it also says something about the company you're working with. When they're willing to provide a free assessment, you know they're trustworthy right off the bat.
3. Good Pricing
Quality isn't the only thing that's important for AC services. You also need to ensure you're getting a good price for the services you require.
We pride ourselves on our reasonable prices. We even offer financing for those who need a little extra help.
4. Good Reputation
Any company you invite into your home or business should have a good reputation. You want to ensure you're working with a business you can trust to get the job done in a timely, professional manner.
That's why it's so important for you to check out the reputation of any given HVAC company. Go online and check common review sites to see what people are saying about the business. The occasional bad review is bound to pop up for any company, but if you check the average, you should get a good idea of the quality of service.
We're proud to have a majority of five-star reviews on Google, as well as excellent feedback across other sites.
Quality HVAC Service at Your Fingertips
If you're looking for quality HVAC services, A1 Refrigeration & Air Conditioning is here to help. We work in Jasper, Brookeland, Kirbyville, Woodville, Newton, and surrounding areas. Schedule a visit today and find out why we're one of the best AC companies in the state!
5 Common HVAC Maintenance Mistakes to Avoid for Jasper Homeowners
Southeast Texas isn't a place you want your HVAC system to fail.
With summer temperatures routinely going into the 90-degree range, Jasper, TX is one of the hotter places in the country. Although winter is short, temperatures can also dip close to freezing levels. All of this means that you need to take care of your HVAC system.
In this post, we're going to tell you some of the more common HVAC maintenance mistakes that people make. If you're going to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, then keep reading and you'll know what not to do.
1. Not Scheduling Regular HVAC Maintenance
First, it should be noted that you need to have your HVAC system professionally maintained at least once per year. These are complicated pieces of machinery, parts of which are exposed to the elements all year long.
As a homeowner, you can't be expected to understand the intricacies of an air conditioner or furnace. Find a qualified and reputable HVAC company and schedule regular maintenance to prolong the lifespan of your residential heating and cooling system.
2. Not Changing Your AC Air Filters
Your air filters stop dirt and debris from entering your air conditioner. As debris builds up, however, the filters will become inundated and cease to work properly. Not only does this cause your AC unit to disperse dust and debris throughout your home, but it has to work harder to cool your home as well.
You're supposed to change your air filters at least once per 90 days, but make sure to keep an eye on them at all times to see if they need cleaning or changing.
3. Ignoring Strange Noises
Your AC unit will make a little noise every time it turns on. When it starts to make unfamiliar noises, you need to act fast. Likely, this means that there's some sort of mechanical issue going on.
If you ignore these noises, the problem will get worse and worse until you may need an HVAC replacement. Don't try to fix these issues yourself, either. Contact an HVAC technician to come and inspect it for you.
4. Forgetting About Ducts
Your ducts need cleaning just as much as the AC unit needs cleaning and the air filters need changing. Air ducts collect dirt and debris throughout the year and when you turn your AC on, it disperses this debris all through your home.
This isn't going to cause any major issues with your HVAC system, but it's going to affect your air quality. Clean your ducts on a regular basis and you'll avoid allergies and illnesses.
5. Using Cleaners On Coils
Your AC is located on the outside of your home, where the evaporator coils are exposed to the elements. You need to clean them on a regular basis, especially at the beginning and end of the warm season, but there's a right and wrong way to do it.
The wrong way to do it is using cleaners with acidic or alkaline substances, which can damage the coils. All you need is a stream of low-pressure water and your coils will be as good as new.
Don't Make These Common HVAC Maintenance Mistakes
Now that you understand these common HVAC maintenance mistakes, you can take the proper measures to avoid making them. The cost of HVAC maintenance skyrockets when you do it incorrectly. If you want to prolong your HVAC system, then hiring a quality HVAC company is the way to go.
A1 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning have been serving Jasper, TX since 1968, so you know you can trust us with your air conditioner. Visit our site to learn more about our services and contact us to schedule your AC maintenance today.
5 Tips on Selecting AC Repair Services for Homeowners in Brookeland
Did you know there are over 380,000 HVAC technicians across the US?
This means you have a lot of options — perhaps too many options — when it comes to selecting AC repair services.
With another sweltering Texas summer on the horizon, you need to be sure your AC is in tip-top condition. How can you find the best AC services in Brookeland, Jasper, and the Great Lakes region?
Here are five tips that will help.
1. Read Online Customer Reviews
Customer testimonials on a company's website are a good place to start, but you need to dig deeper. After all, no company is going to share negative customer feedback on their own site!
Take your search to third-party review sites like Yelp, Angie's List, and the Better Business Bureau. Check to see if there are any unresolved complaints or other red flags about the company.
One or two negative comments isn't enough to write them off, but beware of a string of poor reviews — especially if they all cite the same problem.
2. Review AC Repair Experience
Once you've narrowed your list of providers, scan their services page to see what they offer.
For example, do they specialize in commercial repair, residential repair, or both? How many years have they been in business? Do they offer routine maintenance and checkups, or do they focus more on emergency repair work?
Remember, there are no right or wrong answers here. It's about finding the company that best suits your specific needs.
3. Start Comparing Repair Costs
Not all homeowners have a huge stash of cash in their savings accounts, and repair companies understand that. When selecting AC repair services, look for a company that offers not only competitive pricing, but also financing options.
Of course, like everything else in life, you get what you pay for. Beware of any company that advertises extremely low prices — if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
4. Consider Their Availability
AC repair services can get backed up fast, especially right before and during the summer months. If your residential AC system, starts blowing hot air in the middle of July, you want to be sure you won't have to wait long for repair.
If you suspect your AC system needs a tune-up, don't wait for the temperature to start rising. Schedule an inspection now and find out what their availability is like during the busiest seasons.
5. Double-Check Credentials
Before you make your final selection, make sure the company you're doing business with is fully licensed, bonded, and insured.
Ideally, they should be certified by industry organizations too, such as North American Technician Excellence (NATE) or the National Comfort Institute (NCI)>
Selecting AC Repair Services in Brookeland, TX
With summertime coming, the last thing you want to risk is a broken AC unit. If your AC needs a check-up before the summer months arrive, use the tips above for selecting AC repair services.
When you do, your search is sure to lead you to A1 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. We proudly service homes and businesses in Brookeland, Texas, and the surrounding Great Lakes communities.
Give us a call at (409) 207-1709 or use our online contact form to get in touch.