AC repair services

5 Tips on Choosing an AC Repair Service for Homeowners

The average central air conditioning unit lasts about 12-15 years.

If you live in a hot climate, you know how important the air conditioner is during the warm summer months. But what happens when your AC is not functioning right or needs repair?

If you're a homeowner, you'll have to contact an AC repair service to fix your AC. You'll want to find an experienced, knowledgeable AC repair company.

You'll need to do a bit of research and know what you're looking for. Want to learn more? Here are 5 tips for choosing an AC repair service.

1. Check What Services They Offer

When researching different AC repair companies, take a look at their websites, and see what services they offer. Do they only offer repair services for AC units? How about installation or maintenance?

What about services for heating? What additional services do they offer? If you like the company, you'll want to keep their card on hand to contact them in the future for other repairs or services.

It's easier when a company offers comprehensive services so that you don't have to find a separate service company for heating.

2. Check Their Hours

Another consideration when researching different repair services is their contact and service hours.

Is there a 24/7 emergency service option? A 24/7 emergency service gives you peace of mind when something unexpected comes up. What times and days are they available throughout the week, and will that work with your own schedule?

Is the service company easy to contact? Or do you have to spend time being put on hold? These are other considerations when choosing an AC repair company.

3. Look at Pricing Options

Of course, pricing options are going to matter when shopping for an AC repair service. When comparing contractor fees, ask if they offer any financing options. With a financing plan, you can still get great service while sticking to your budget.

You can also ask if the company is offering any discounts or special offers.

Another tip for pricing is to ask for a detailed estimate before any service begins. That way, you'll have an idea of how much you're going to pay.

4. Compare Different Companies

If you're looking at more than one company, sometimes it helps to compare their services, pricing, and other options side by side. Think about what matters to you most when looking at different AC repair companies. You'll want a company that has experience and knowledge.

5. Read Reviews and Ask for Referrals

Research shows that 91% of shoppers that are 18-34 years old trust a review as much as a personal recommendation.

Reading online reviews can help you make a decision when shopping for a service or product. However, remember that online reviews aren't a complete picture.

Similarly, you can ask for referrals from friends and family who are homeowners.

Final Tips for Choosing an AC Repair Service Company

As a homeowner, you have a lot to think about when it comes to maintaining your home. A broken AC can be stressful and another thing to add to your list. However, you can find the right AC repair service company to get your AC up and running in no time.

Want to learn more about what AC services we offer? Contact us today.


hvac maintenance tips

Keep It Cool: 3 HVAC Maintenance Tips for Informed Homeowners

In 2018, there was a 15.3 million demand for air conditioning units. As temperatures rise, having an efficient HVAC system is more important than ever. If you want to keep your home as cool as possible, you need to consider proper maintenance.

Read on to learn about three HVAC maintenance tips for informed homeowners.

1. Check Air Filters

One of the most important HVAC maintenance tips you can follow is checking your air filters. If the HVAC isn't working, it could be due to a dirty air filter.

Dirty air filters can cause problems like making the entire system less efficient. It can also lead to strain on the working parts. When the air filter is dirty, the system has to work harder to push air through.

Air filters should be checked monthly to maintain proper maintenance. If you have too busy of a schedule to remember to check, set a reminder each month. A dirty or clogged air filter should be fixed right away.

Generally, air filters should be replaced at least every three months. However, it may need to be replaced sooner if you have pets or open the windows a lot. Those in your home dealing with allergy issues may need the filters replaced sooner as well.

There are high-efficiency air filters that you can purchase to make your home as cool as it can be. They are more efficient because they trap more small particles than traditional filters do. This leads to a cleaner system and a healthier family.

2. Use Fans When Possible

Air conditioning maintenance tips are all about keeping your HVAC system as healthy as it can be. The healthier it is, the longer it can last.

A great way to keep your system healthy is by using fans whenever possible. This will help give your system a break.

For example, on especially hot summer days, you can use portable fans and ceiling fans to keep the air circulating throughout the home. This will help your HVAC system lower the temperature faster without doing the extra work.

You can also use fans on colder days of the year. Instead of using the thermostat, you can open the windows to bring cool air in. The fans can then be used to circulate the air from outside throughout the home.

Not only will you increase the life of your HVAC system, but you will also save money on energy bills.

3. Check for Debris

An outdoor unit should especially be checked often for debris. Clearing debris is one of the easiest HVAC repair tips out there. Sometimes it's all your system needs to work efficiently again.

Every week you should check the system for pollen, dirt, leaves, and other debris types. A clear unit provides maximum airflow. Make sure there are two feet of space around your unit to try to keep it as clean as possible.

HVAC Maintenance Tips Explained

HVAC issues often stem from poor maintenance. As long as you are checking your unit for problems, you will increase the lifespan of the system. Following these tips will help you keep your home as cool as a cucumber.

If you are in need of professional HVAC help, schedule a service today.


air conditioner size

Air Conditioner Size: Things Every Homeowner Should Know

You’d be surprised how many people have the wrong size air conditioner in their homes. They aren’t a one-size-fits-all type of appliance. You should know exactly what you need in order to save money on your electric bill and cool your house in the most efficient way possible.

Keep reading because, in this guide, we'll share six key facts about air conditioner size that every home or property owner should know.

What is the Proper Air Conditioner Size for Your Home?

When it comes to your central air unit or window AC, bigger does not always mean better. This is because ACs are measured by British thermal units or Btu for short. Btu measured the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of water.

Essentially, it is the power level of the appliance. The higher the Btu rating, the more energy the air conditioner expends to remove heat. Using Btus, you can calculate the size and performance rating you need in an air conditioner.

Air Conditioner Size and the Size of Your Home

Your cooling needs are reliant on a few different factors. The most important one is the size of the room you are trying to cool down. To properly measure this, you should measure the room the air conditioner unit is in and convert it to square feet.

If the room is 100 to 150 square feet, the typical size of a small bedroom or kitchen, you’ll need an air conditioner with a Btu rating of 5,000.

Your energy needs can be adjusted depending on things such as how much of the room is in shade, how many people occupy the room, and the use of the room the AC is in.

An HVAC specialist can help you determine your needs and find the best air conditioner for you.

Troubleshooting

If your current cooling system isn’t performing the way it should be, you could have a few potential issues on your hands. Here are two common problems:

An Oversized Air Conditioner

Buying an AC unit with a high Btu rating than you need may seem like a good idea. However, it won’t actually help cool down things any quicker than an average-sized unit. In fact, you could run into a few issues with an oversized unit.

  • You could see a significant spike in your energy bills
  • The unit will not remove moisture from the air efficiently
  • It may automatically shut off soon after you turn it on, causing wear and tear on the machine

An Undersized Air Conditioner

Similar to an oversized unit, an undersized unit poses problems as well. If your air conditioner is too small, you may notice these issues:

  • The unit is always on but the house is never quite cool
  • Airflow is reduced
  • Temperatures fluctuate widely throughout your home
  • Your energy bills are higher

A properly sized AC is the proper way to go.

Beat the Heat

Don’t suffer in the heat and humidity. Finding out the correct air conditioner size for your home is your key to comfort. If you need help installing the best AC unit, we here at A1 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning have you covered.

Our HVAC technicians are experts in all areas of maintenance, repair, and installation. If you’re in the Jasper and The Great Lakes, TX area, schedule with us today.


oven repair

The 5 Most Common Appliance Issues and Repairs

Buying a new appliance is one of the highlights of being a homeowner. When things are brand new, people expect appliances to last forever.

Do you know what to do if you need oven repair or refrigerator maintenance?

If you can identify the most common appliance issues, you can speak intelligently to an expert or repairman about the cause. Commit this information to memory, and your friends will contact you to help figure out their appliance problems.

1. Garbage Disposal

The good news about garbage disposals is that most of the issues can be solved by resetting. Modern disposals have fail-safe triggers that prevent them from overheating, running too long, or other mechanical errors.

Read your owner's manual to locate the reset switch. If the shredders aren't properly grinding the debris, a manual rotation is required followed by a reset.

For health and safety reasons, never put your hand down the disposal with the power engaged. Serious issues should be referred to a professional.

2. Oven Repair

The common complaint about ovens is that the unit isn't heating properly. Depending on the age and use, the entire oven bake element could be worn out. If the element is fine, then you need to make sure the internal temperature sensor is working.

To ensure a functioning oven, clean the appliance as much as possible. People often forget this is a vital part of maintaining an oven. Some ovens even have a clean function.

3. Washing Machine

Does your washer smell funky? Is it causing your loads to smell bad, too?

If you're constantly running the washer, you probably have residual greywater in the tub. Run an empty cycle with hot water, baking soda, and vinegar to eliminate strange smells.

Another easy fix is to give more time between washing cycles. This lets the tub dry out.

4. Refrigerator Ice Machine

The ice machine on a refrigerator is one of the great luxuries of our time. Because of the convenience, people tend not to have a backup ice tray in the freezer.

A broken ice machine in Jasper, TX is a recipe for disaster. You may need to replace a small fan motor, or you could be stuck with an expensive refrigerant replacement.

5. Damaged Microwave

Microwaves are easy to use and save hours of cooking over the span of one week. A damaged microwave is a serious matter though.

Consult an expert immediately if the door doesn't close or the food isn't heating properly. Any problems with a microwave are potentially hazardous to your health due to the magnetron in the appliance.

Keep your family safe by ensuring the microwave is doing its job.

Become an Appliance Master

You've spent a lot of time and money on your appliance, become an appliance master by taking care of them. Don't panic if something malfunctions. Now that you have the basic knowledge, attacking the problem won't be as difficult.

The next time your neighbor or friend needs an oven repair, you can help them diagnose the issue. Remember, appliances won't last forever, but your knowledge will.

If you are in search of a professional repair service to meet all your Jasper, TX needs, then contact us today.


air conditioner tune up

7 Signs You Need an Air Conditioner Tune up

When is the last time you had an air conditioner tune up?

Many people don't recognize the value of this service. Especially when preparing for hurricane season.

So if you're experiencing any of the following issues, now is the time for a tune-up.

1. High Energy Bills

If your energy bills are higher than normal and you didn't just come off a stretch of unusually hot days, it could mean that your AC is not operating at its optimal level.

An older cooling system is less efficient than a newer one - especially if it's not regularly maintained. But an air conditioner tune-up will give both your air conditioner and your wallet a break.

2. Excessive Humidity

When you live in a place that experiences excess humidity, you know how important it is that your AC system balances out the humidity level. This is especially true during hurricane season when humidity levels skyrocket.

So if your home feels more humid than usual, it's time to call in the experts. HVAC professionals may recommend a whole-house dehumidifier to alleviate problems with extra moisture.

3. Unusual Noises

Does your air conditioner rattle or buzz? You may have a loose part.

If it whistles or makes a grinding noise, however, you could be looking at a more serious problem with your air conditioner.

While it's normal for the AC to make some sound during start-up and shut-down, unusual noises are a sign that a tune-up is needed.

4. Frequent Cycles

Regardless of the weather, your cooling unit should go through relatively routine cooling cycles. Obviously, your AC will come on more often during the hottest days. But if it's cycling on and off constantly, there's a problem.

An HVAC expert can check it out and likely resolve the issue. There is a chance, though, that you may need a new air conditioner.

5. Bad Odors

One of the jobs of your HVAC system is to freshen the air and neutralize odors. So if it starts to produce an unpleasant smell, then something is wrong.

You don't want to mess with a bad odor. It could be caused by nasty mildew, troublesome mold, or even faulty wiring. So be sure to call in a professional to resolve the issue.

6. Warm Air

When you turn on the air conditioning, does warm air blow out of the vents?

Check the thermostat to be sure it's on cooling mode. Then set the temperature lower than the current temperature of your home. If your vents still blow warm air, you may have an issue with the compressor or restricted airflow and you'll need the services of an HVAC expert.

7. Water Leaks

It's normal for your air conditioner to produce condensation as it operates. But there's nothing normal about leaking water.

Pooled water around your air conditioner is a sure sign that something is wrong. And it's more than just a hassle. It could end up damaging your home and leading to structural issues.

Don't hesitate to call the pros.

Get Your Air Conditioner Tune up Today

If you're experiencing any of the above issues, it's essential you contact us for an air conditioner tune up.

Even if you aren't experiencing any problems, it's still a good idea to have a tune-up to ensure your AC runs through the hurricane season - and beyond.


ac maintenance plan

The Best AC Maintenance Plan for the Upcoming Hurricane Season

Hurricane season is here, and on day three, the 2020 season already broke a record. The third named storm arrived faster than any other third storm in history, and it looks like we're in for a wild one.

Although recent storms have been tropical storms, NOAA says we can expect six to 10 hurricanes in 2020 and three to six storms reaching at least a Category 3. And everyone needs to be prepared.

One of the ways homeowners need to get ready for hurricane season is through HVAC maintenance. What do we mean? Here's what you need to know about the best AC maintenance plan for hurricane season.

Schedule Your Summer Check-Up

It's always a good idea to get an HVAC system check-up before the summer season sets in for good. HVAC maintenance inspections give you a chance to spot damage or system problems early and perform preventative maintenance.

Why is this so important before hurricane season? You want your cooling system to be fully functional before a storm hits to give it a better chance of survival (at least in terms of working against the heat).

The best AC maintenance plan will include at least two visits a year: once before summer, and once in the autumn. In other words, get your system inspected before you need it full-time and after you run it all summer. Getting it done can save you between $150-$450, depending on the repair.

Double-Check Your Tie Downs and Tarp

Everyone needs to have hurricane-proof tie-downs and a tarp to protect your unit after the storm. Your tie downs should be suitable for winds up to 160 miles-per-hour.

It's a good idea to test them and check for any damage before hurricane season starts. You don't want to find a frayed tie-down or broken buckle as a storm approaches.

Remember not to leave your tarp on your unit outside of storm conditions. It's there to protect your HVAC unit from heavy rain. However, leaving it on can also encourage rust and mold.

Always Inspect Your HVAC Unit Before Turning It On Again

We all know not to switch your HVAC system on immediately after the storm passes. You always need to look at it first. If you can spot damage, call an HVAC repair specialist for a formal inspection. Additionally, consider calling for maintenance if you experience substantial flooding, even if your HVAC unit sits on a platform and you can't see the damage.

Remember, turning on a damaged HVAC system can wreak more havoc than leaving it off!

The Best AC Maintenance Plan Includes Inspections

Protecting your home from hurricanes always begins and ends with an HVAC inspection because the combination of the Texas heat with storm season wreaks havoc on your HVAC unit.

That's why the best AC maintenance plan in Texas always includes at least two inspections a year.

At A1 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, our HVAC maintenance plans include not only two performance tune-ups per year, but we also put you on our free 24-hour priority service list in case of emergencies.

Are you prepared for hurricane season in Texas? Get in touch today to schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment in Jasper, Texas.


AC maintenance repair plans

5 Tips for Creating AC Maintenance Plans During Quarantine

By the end of April 2020, at least 316 million people had been urged to stay at home. State and city governments have issued various types of shelter in place orders to keep residents from heading to work, restaurants, and other daily activities.

Chances are, you’re among the majority of the world that’s quarantining at home. While you’re in quarantine, you’ll be spending much more time at home then you’re used to, and probably using more of your AC than you normally would.

While it’s getting more use, it’s important to think through AC maintenance plans. A proper maintenance plan will keep your AC working properly through quarantine and beyond.

1. Control Humidity

Most shelter-in-place orders in the U.S. began in March when most states were beginning to enter spring. With warmer weather comes higher humidity, so it’s important to monitor moisture levels.

If your home becomes too humid, your AC unit will need to work harder to remove moisture from the air and cool your home as efficiently as possible. Instead of cranking up your AC to get rid of humidity, try opening your windows as often as possible. The fresh air can help bring in cooler temperatures, but make sure you’re only opening the windows on drier days.

2. Prevent Allergens

During quarantine, you may be spending more time at parks and walking outside. Whenever you come inside, you may be bringing in dirt and debris that can end up inside your AC system.

As we head into spring, much of this debris will also be pollutants and allergens that can affect members of your household. To get rid of debris and prevent buildup, make sure you’re removing your shoes and clothing after you come in from the outdoors.

3. Clean Your Vents

While you’re inside, your AC unit should be producing good indoor air quality. Routinely cleaning your vents can help ensure proper flow and quality. You can easily clean your vents using a vacuum or a duster.

4. Replace Your Air Filters

Replacing your air filters is an important aspect of regular AC maintenance. A good rule of thumb is to replace your filter at least every month. If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, you may need to monitor your filter more often to see if it’s getting clogged with debris faster.

5. Monitor Your Outdoor Unit

Don’t forget about your outdoor AC unit. Though units are designed to be durable, you can help them work more efficiently by cleaning them regularly.

Every month, check for debris like sticks, leaves, and dirt. Make sure nothing is obstructing the fan, or it could cause long-term damage.

Develop Professional AC Maintenance Plans

The best AC maintenance plans will come from manufacturers and technicians. We can provide specific instructions for indoor and outdoor HVAC systems. If your system breaks down while you’re at home, we can work quickly to provide repair services.

Contact us today to learn how we can keep your AC working efficiently through quarantine and summer.


ac maintenance plan

What AC Maintenance Plan Mistakes Do I Need to Avoid at All Costs?

Summer is on its way, and the days are going to get hotter before you know it. If you've learned anything from the past years, it's that you need to make sure your air conditioning unit is in top form so it can keep your house nice and cool in the days and months ahead.

That being said, you'll want to keep your AC in the most optimal condition possible. But AC maintenance can be a bit confusing if you don't know what you're getting into, and if you make a wrong move you could end up wreaking your valuable equipment - and sweating things out as punishment.

Luckily, there's no need to fear. This article will give you an AC maintenance plan you can follow that has everything you need to know about what to avoid when maintaining your air conditioner. Keep reading to find out more!

Ac Maintenance Plans: 1. Avoid Leaving the Unit on Bare Ground

In some cases, homeowners may leave their AC unit alone until the weather gets hot once more and they need to stay cool once again. This leads to grass usually growing over the unit that you may try to remove. However, doing so can actually cause more harm.

During rainy weather, the bare ground will turn into mud that will splash onto the unit and cover up the condenser coil's fins, reducing their efficiency and shortening the lifespan of the AC. It's best to put down mulch or bark chips to keep mud splashing to a minimum.

2. Don't Just Add Any Type of Refrigerant

"It's all the same type of refrigerant, right?", you might say. The answer is a definite no. Each unit has its own type of refrigerant that it is required to have in order to function properly. Adding any type could result in the unit not working at its best or not at all.

The same goes for if you add too much refrigerant as well. There is a certain level that is supposed to be added to the AC unit, and you will want to pay attention to this if you want to keep your unit working well into the future.

3. No Pressure Washing the Condenser Coil

Pressure washing seems like an easy way to clean out your AC unit, but it'll most likely only result in a premature trip to have another unit installed.

The condenser coil is an important part of your unit; in fact, you'll want to make sure that it is handled by professionals who know how to clean it off and can keep your air conditioner running for a long time to come.

We've Got You Covered

Now that you have your AC maintenance plan, you know what to avoid while you maintain your unit and how to keep it in the best condition. If you need some serious help, however, you'll want to call in the pros. That's where we come in.

A1 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, our name says it all. We specialize in handling refrigeration and HVAC units of all types, as well as separate heating and air conditioning units and other heating and cooling appliances, for a price that fits your budget.

Are you ready to get started? Want to learn more about what we have to offer? We'd be more than happy to answer any questions you might have. Simply give us a call or send us a message to talk with us or schedule an appointment. Here's looking forward to a cool summer!


air conditioner leaking water

AC Maintenance: What to Do About an Air Conditioner Leaking Water

Americans can save up to 50% of their air conditioning costs with the proper upkeep.

Knowing what to look out for is the first step in saving money on your AC unit. Your air conditioner leaking water is a major sign that it needs some work done. 

Many problems can cause AC leaking. Keep reading to find out how to fix AC leaks.

Air Conditioner Leaking Water from Drip Pan

You know how a cold glass of lemonade beads with sweat on a really hot day? Think of your air conditioner as the glass of lemonade. 

Converting hot air into cool air creates a lot of condensation. The drip pan on your AC is there to catch all that sweat so it doesn't leak into your home. 

Water leaking from air conditioner drip pans isn't a big deal, and you don't need to replace your entire AC unit. 

You can temporarily fix your removable drip pan on your own to save your carpet. You'll still need to call a professional to repair the primary drip pan that's welded inside of your air conditioner.

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Your AC leaking water could be a sign that its evaporator coils are frozen. This could be the result of a dirty air filter. 

If you don't replace your air filter often enough, it restricts your AC from pulling in air. This causes cold air to be trapped, which eventually freezes your evaporator coils. 

To prevent this from happening again, change your air filter every 30-90 days. Replacing your air filter often can also save you money on your electricity bill. 

You may need to replace your air filter more often in the summer when your air conditioner usage is more frequent. 

Clogged Drain Line

Your AC dripping water could be due to a clogged drain line. A lot of condensation builds up and it all needs somewhere to go. 

If you have a clogged drain line, the water will start leaking from your AC unit.

Water is breeding grounds for bacteria. This can cause algae, mold, and fungi to grow in your drain line. 

It's normal to need to clean your drain line every once in a while. It's a long process that requires special tools, so it's better that you call a professional for help. 

Faulty Condensate Pump

Condensate pumps are used in central AC units to pump out condensation. These are necessary for AC units that don't allow water to drip with gravity. 

It's common for condensate pumps to stop working with time. If your unit is leaking water, the condensate pump is most likely broken. 

No need to worry. This is a common and easy fix for HVAC professionals. 

Keep a Cool Head

Your air conditioner leaking water could be a result of any of the above issues. Now that the facts are in front of you, it's time for you to identify the problem. 

Even if you can't find the issue, A1 Refrigeration & Air Conditioning will be happy to take a look. Give us a call or schedule a service to get your AC back up to spec.


AC Maintenance

4 Eye-Opening Reasons Homeowners Should Invest in an AC Maintenance Plan

Unexpected HVAC costs can really hurt the homeowner who's on a budget. Air Conditioning repairs alone can range between $150-$450 depending on the issue.

That's why having an AC maintenance plan is worth the cost. You can have a warrantied professional in your home twice a year to examine all of your equipment and make any needed small repairs before they turn into costly issues.

Read on for our top 4 eye-opening reasons to invest in a maintenance package for your air conditioning system.

1. Fewer Expensive Repairs

Most major repairs that are required on HVAC systems are caused by a smaller problem that went unnoticed. In fact, most repairs are a result of inadequate maintenance.

If left for too long, a simple replacement or a part or cleaning of a coil can turn into a total system replacement or another expensive repair.

When a professional and warranty backed specialist comes regularly to inspect the various components of your HVAC system, they are more likely to find the small repairs before they turn into costly problems.

2. Peace of Mind

HVAC breakdowns happen when the equipment is working the hardest. This means that most system failures happen when you need them working the most, in the dead of winter during a freeze, or in the blazing sun of a summer heatwave.

By having regular maintenance done on your air conditioner and furnace, you'll be preventing small problems from turning into major equipment malfunctions.

You can rest easy, knowing that when you need your comfort systems most, they'll be working in perfect condition.

3. Having an AC Maintenance Plan is More Energy Efficient

A well-tuned air conditioner will work more efficiently than one that is overcompensating for damaged parts of the system.

By having regular maintenance through one of our custom maintenance packages your system will be able to work effectively while using less energy.

One of our trained experts will check the coils, condensate drain, clean the blower motor, lubricate the moving parts, and many more essential maintenances each time they visit.

Having your system in tip-top shape can save you a lot of money on your monthly utility bills.

4. Save Money on Needed Repairs

We offer special discounts on parts and labor to our clients with maintenance plans. That means they'll save 20% on all parts and labor costs. And when it's time for a new system, we even offer 10% off of new air conditioners and furnaces.

The air conditioners and furnaces with regular maintenance done have a longer performance life than those without. So you'll be able to avoid replacing your systems for longer.

It's our way of saying "thank you" and your way of saving big.

It's Time to Get Your Plan in Place

Having an AC maintenance plan is the key to having peace of mind and avoiding unexpected and expensive repairs.

Don't wait till your next AC malfunction, get a professional into your home today!

For more info on how to maximize the life and performance of your HVAC systems check out our blog today!