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Nov 13
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The Importance of Timely HVAC Repairs in Winter in Point Blank, TX

By HVAC Expert | Preventative Maintenance

Picture this: you switch on your heater on a freezing winter day, and nothing happens. What do you do?

If you’re like many Americans, you might be tempted to do nothing. Research suggests that fewer than half of us have an emergency fund, so the bill for those heating repairs may seem pretty unappealing. Given Texas’s mild winters, you might think it’s better to pocket the repair costs, at least for a few weeks. 

However, getting fast HVAC repairs can be more important than you might think. Delays can impact everything from your system’s lifespan to your health. If you’re reluctant to call a professional, let’s look at why you should consider it and what to watch out for.

Why You Need Heating Repairs Fast in Winter

There are two crucial reasons to get winter HVAC maintenance: preserving your wealth and your health.

Long-term Savings

We get it: HVAC repair costs can be expensive. Depending on the issue, you could end up spending anywhere from a hundred to a few thousand dollars. If you need a total system replacement, the bills can get even higher.

Because few of us enjoy paying for unexpected costs, it may be tempting to procrastinate your repairs. After all, if your unit is still providing some amount of heating, even if it’s unreliable or uneven, why not run it without calling for maintenance?

Avoid this temptation! If you neglect repairs, what starts as a minor issue may snowball into major headaches. You might have to shell out for higher energy costs and expensive breakdowns, all while your home remains uncomfortable to live in. It’s often far less expensive to get a repair now than it is to run your system into the ground and replace it later.

Health Benefits

Another common urge is to shut the heater off altogether. Winter temperatures here in Texas are often milder than they are in the rest of the country, so you might be tempted to think you can squeak by without an HVAC tune-up.

While this might not be an issue in late fall, it’s not a great idea once the temperatures drop in earnest. Research suggests that cold weather can be hazardous to your health for several reasons.

First, our blood vessels contract in cold weather, leading to increased blood pressure. This increases the risk of cardiac issues like heart attacks and strokes, especially for people with pre-existing heart conditions.

Cold air also affects our respiratory performance, irritating the airway and triggering coughing and breathing difficulties. This is even worse for anyone with conditions like allergies, asthma, or COPD.

Last, cold temperatures make it easier for certain viruses to spread, including both the flu and COVID-19.

Experts recommend keeping indoor temperatures at 64 degrees or higher for better health.

Common Winter HVAC Issues to Watch For

Breakdowns can happen any time of the year, but a few issues are more common than others. Here are some of the problems our team sees most often during winter repairs:

  • Frozen or burst pipes or coils, especially after a severe freeze
  • Uneven airflow or heating between rooms
  • Malfunctioning thermostat
  • Clogged or dirty heater filters
  • Increased energy bills
  • Low heat pump refrigerant
  • Yellow or flickering pilot light in a gas-burning system
  • Fouled fuel in an oil-fired system

It’s also crucial to mention that carbon monoxide is more of a risk during the winter months as well. If you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector in your home or you haven’t checked your batteries recently, make sure to find and test one! This odorless gas is a major health hazard.

How to Avoid Emergency Heating Repairs

If you’re hoping to avoid last-minute HVAC winter repairs, there are a few things you can do to decrease your risk.

Take Your System for a Test Drive

The switch from mild to freezing can be sudden in the Point Blank area. To make sure your system is ready to go, do a furnace test drive before you need it. This ensures that you don’t first discover major problems when you start your system on a cold winter night!

During your test drive, do some DIY maintenance. Check for strange noises or smells, and look for signs of wear and tear. If you have a gas furnace, examine the color of the pilot light: you’ll want a blue flame.

Maintain Your Airflow

One key task for every homeowner’s to-do list should be checking the system’s airflow. A heater that can circulate air with ease will always perform better than a system that struggles. Better circulation can also decrease your risk of part failure or other repair issues.

To maintain proper airflow, change your filter once every 30-90 days or as recommended by your system manufacturer. Check the vents and registers in your home to be sure no furniture pieces have blocked them, and clear away any dust or debris. If you notice any leaky ducts, be sure to address them.

Improving your home’s insulation can help as well. Things like insulating your attic and basement or stopping drafts around your doors and windows can keep air inside where it belongs. This keeps your system from working so hard to heat your home.

Get Winter HVAC Maintenance

Professional maintenance keeps the repair bills away. If you want to be sure you won’t need a last-minute repair this winter, the best thing to do is schedule seasonal maintenance. An HVAC technician can check your system for any issues, lubricate moving parts, and inspect electrical components.

Get Fast Heating Maintenance and Repairs

The bottom line is that you should never wait for heating repairs or maintenance. Ensuring that your system is in good condition can extend its lifespan, ensure your comfort, preserve your health, and even help you save money.

If you’re hoping for fast, professional service from a team that Point Blank has trusted since 1983, Best Air Conditioning & Heating, LLC. is here to help. We know system breakdowns don’t always wait for a convenient moment, which is why we offer weekend service for your emergency repair needs. To schedule a heating repair with us, call (936) 213-5116 today.

Oct 18
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Optimizing Your HVAC System for Fall Temperatures in Corrigan, TX

By HVAC Expert | Preventative Maintenance

If you get frequent use out of your heater the minute temperatures drop in the Corrigan area, you’re far from alone. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, space heating consumed more energy than any other household consumption in 2020, the most recent year studied. This energy expenditure costs the average U.S. household around $519 on average.

Are you getting the most bang for your buck?

No matter how your energy bills stack up against this average, a few optimization tricks may help lower your costs and raise your comfort. From HVAC preventative maintenance to thermostat setting tweaks to basic cleaning, here are a few ways to enhance your system’s performance this fall and beyond.

Do a Test-Drive

The last thing you should do is wait until the temperatures drop to turn your heater on for the first time. If any lingering issues prevent your heater from running as intended, you and your household may be uncomfortable and cold while you wait for repairs!

Instead, check your heating system long before you’ll need it. Engage your heater by raising the temperature on your thermostat. You should notice the system turn on and start working to match the temperature you’ve set.

If the system doesn’t come on, or if you notice that only room temperature or cool air blows, contact an HVAC technician.

Optimize Your Settings

In the warmer months, you’ve probably had your thermostat set to high temperatures during the day, especially during periods when no one’s home.

The start of fall is a good opportunity to revisit those settings. If you and your household have adopted a new schedule this season, such as a return to school after summer vacation, reprogram your thermostat’s schedule accordingly.

For your HVAC settings in the fall, experts recommend setting your thermostat between 70 and 78 degrees, depending on the weather. You should let your indoor temperature drop no further than 64 degrees for optimal health.

Check Your Air Filter

If you’ve been running your HVAC system often in the summer, your air filter has likely taken a beating. It may have accumulated a thick layer of dust, allergens, and other indoor pollutants.

This fall, start fresh by changing out that filter! You should change your filter at least once every 30 to 60 days. Even if you don’t always make the switch, you still should check for a buildup of grime at least that often.

Opt for a thick filter with high performance ratings, especially if you have pets or if anyone in your home has a respiratory condition.

Clean Your Outdoor Unit

Heavy summer storms are common in this part of Texas, and they can wreak havoc on the outdoor unit of your HVAC system.

Mud, debris, and stray leaves can build up on the surface of your unit. Heavy rain can sometimes shift the ground beneath the system, causing it to become uneven. Dirt and debris can also clog the system’s drain line, which can lead to water backups inside your home or other issues within the system.

Even after summers with mild weather, plants and shrubbery around your unit may interfere with its performance. This subtle growth can be hard to notice, but you should make a point of cutting down any nearby tree limbs and removing plant matter from your unit each fall. This ensures that your system has the airflow it needs to heat your home.

If you notice dirt lodged inside the system itself, you may want to contact an HVAC expert. Though you can sometimes remove a system’s grills or casing to do an internal cleaning on your own, the wrong method can cause damage or even void your warranty. Consider leaving this task to a pro.

Optimize Your Airflow

One crucial part of HVAC optimization is improving your home’s airflow. This boosts your energy efficiency and ensures that your system doesn’t have to work as hard to regulate your indoor temperatures.

To do this, vacuum and clean the vents and registers throughout your home. Make sure no furniture or other objects are blocking them.

You should also check for leaky air ducts, especially in basements and crawlspaces that have little insulation. If you notice leaks, contact a professional to patch them.

Don’t forget to make sure your air stays inside your home where it belongs! Insulate your windows and doors with tools like caulk, weatherstripping, and door drafts. If you want to be thorough, consider getting a professional home energy audit to look for areas where you can improve your energy efficiency.

Get a Heating Tune-Up

Regular HVAC maintenance from a pro can keep your HVAC system at peak operating efficiency. This means you’ll consume less energy heating your home, which in turn can decrease your energy bills.

In addition, an HVAC inspection gives technicians a chance to look for wear and tear, damage, and other small issues that might snowball into major headaches if left unchecked. By catching these red flags early, your HVAC contractor can keep your system running for longer. They may even be able to lower your risk of expensive repairs in the future or increase the lifespan of your system!

In the present, expert heating tune-ups translate to better home comfort. Because your HVAC technician will help address hot or cold spots to provide more even cooling, you’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures in every room of your home.

Start Your HVAC Preventative Maintenance Today

Whether you want to save on heating costs or boost your home’s comfort, HVAC preventative maintenance can help. Setting aside time to optimize your heating system before you need it can even ensure that it’s ready to go during the first cold snap of the year! Start working through the tips above today to prepare your household.

As you start optimizing your heating system, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experienced team at Best Air and Heating for help. We service all HVAC makes and models, and we’ve been proudly serving customers throughout East Texas since 1983. Call us at (936) 213-5116 for all your heating maintenance needs!

Sep 20
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The Importance of Seasonal HVAC Checkups in Woodville, TX

By HVAC Expert | Preventative Maintenance

Fall’s coming up, and with it a long list of tasks every homeowner needs to tackle. Cleaning gutters, draining water heaters, and replacing fire alarm batteries. Unfortunately, you might be missing one big item on your list: HVAC maintenance.

In Woodville, TX, many residents switch on their heating for the first time, only to discover it’s struggling – or not working. They call for help from their local HVAC company, only to discover there’s a long backlog of people in a similar situation. They wouldn’t be in this situation if they’d just handled this all sooner. 

You need HVAC checkups on a yearly basis. Join us as we discuss the value of HVAC maintenance in the fall.

HVAC Maintenance Prevents Costly Repairs

Like any machine, your HVAC system requires regular maintenance as components begin to wear down and eventually break. Big breakdowns always show warning signs before they happen.

Take, for example, if your heat pump starts to fail. It may only require a simple fix to get it back up and running. Delay that fix, though, and you might be in for a bigger, more intensive repair costing up to $1,000. 

So, mark your calendar for an HVAC company to drop by. Have them take a look at your heating system from root to stem. Fixing minor issues now will likely prevent larger ones later. 

It Lowers Utility Bills

Prevention is only one of the many benefits that come with HVAC checkups. Every system requires a regular tune-up. An efficient HVAC system is one that has all its nuts and bolts tight.

Take, for example, vent air filters. Their fibers gather up the dirt and gunk that tries to come in from outside. They lock these contaminants down between multiple layers, keeping them out of your lungs.

Fail to replace a filter on a timely schedule, and said contaminants start to seep into your home. Replace your filters regularly.  It’s a good rule of thumb to do so approximately once every 3 to 6 months. 

Air quality isn’t the only issue. Clogged filters reduce airflow, forcing the system to work harder. The fans need to run faster, and the compressor gets hotter. 

A harder-working system naturally drives up your utility bill, even if you set the same temperature as usual. Swapping filters and making other tune-ups keeps your utility bill in check. 

It Improves Air Quality

We mentioned how an old filter can ruin your overall air quality. That’s only the tip of the iceberg in terms of clean, easy-to-breathe air. 

Another factor is the vents and ducts. These, like filters, gather up dust, pet dander, mold spores, and viruses. Once beyond the filter, they pose a genuine threat to your air quality. 

Cool-weather is the time you’re most likely to get sick. Your immunity response drops by half in tandem with the temperature. That flu bug that you might have shrugged off in the summertime could now keep you in bed come winter.

Think about how much more time you spend inside once winter rolls around. Fail to swap filters, and a year’s worth of outside dust will be sharing those cozy, cold evenings with you!

Schedule your HVAC maintenance now and improve your air quality. Enjoy a clean, easy-breathing winter by dealing with HVAC issues in the fall.

It Allows for Needed Upgrades

Replacing your HVAC system will cost an arm and a leg. Air conditioners and furnaces are not cheap. Instead, you can get worthwhile gains by making small upgrades here or there to your system.

For example, the thermostat. It’s a small device, often overlooked despite how much power it wields over your system. It’s not always obvious when you could benefit from a new one. 

Replacing the thermostat could easily result in massive performance and efficiency gains. You might want a smart thermostat to save energy, especially once you see those winter bills.

The thermostat is only the beginning. Dozens of small changes, tweaks, and replacements can make your old HVAC system punch above its weight. 

Sadly, there’s no way to avail of these upgrades without HVAC maintenance. Schedule your checkup appointments before everyone else gets the same idea.

It Extends the Lifespan of Your System

HVAC systems are very much like cars. They can run smoothly for decades if you treat them right, but they’re not immortal. They’ll need complete replacement eventually.

Basic maintenance on a regular schedule delays those big, costly replacements that inevitably come one day. It keeps the system, as a whole, in better shape in the meantime.

Letting things fall apart and accrue damage creates a ripple effect. Dirty coils, as one example, get hotter during operation, cooking nearby components to above-average temperatures. This causes small, unseen degradation over the course of years that is hard to quantify.

You wouldn’t dare leave your car without an oil change at least once per 3,000 miles. So why would you leave your HVAC system without its needed “oil change” each fall? Remedy that problem today with HVAC maintenance.

It Gives You Peace of Mind

All of these reasons are great, but the best of the bunch is peace of mind. Procrastination leads to weeks and months of anxiety. An uncompleted task lingers in the back of your head, keeping you from living life to the fullest.

Autumn is full of some of the most important celebrations of the year. Halloween and Thanksgiving, to name just two on the list. Would you rather kick back during these festivities or stress out about putting off what needs doing?

A lot of HVAC systems have some sort of breakdown during the colder seasons. Many an HVAC company gets a flood of repair requests as a result. When they’re bogged down, which means you have to wait even longer in the cold.

Schedule HVAC Maintenance Today

HVAC maintenance needs to be at the top of your fall to-do checklist. With the help of your trusty local technician, you can prevent costly repairs and get your system running efficiently. At the very least, you’ll get the peace of mind of knowing everything is in order. 

Best Air Conditioning and Heating is your friend, whether you’re in Woodville or the surrounding area. Check our list of service cities and schedule your HVAC maintenance today. 

Aug 21
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Common Allergens and Pollutants: How Your HVAC System Can Help in Cold Spring, TX

By HVAC Expert | Service Area

Here in Cold Spring, TX, there are all sorts of allergens floating through the air. You might not think that these allergens are making their way into your home. In reality, however, your HVAC system could be silently funneling them in and affecting your indoor air quality.

Fortunately, there are things you can do with your HVAC system to ensure that allergens are kept to a minimum.

Wondering what they are? Then read on. Here’s how your HVAC system can help combat common allergens and pollutants in Cold Spring, TX.

What Allergens and Pollutants Are Common in Cold Spring, TX?

There are all sorts of allergens and pollutants present in Cold Spring, TX. We’ll discuss some of the most prominent of these allergens and pollutants below.

Pollen

Pollen is extremely prominent in the Cold Spring area. It comes from a variety of trees, weeds, and plants. These run the gamut from ragweed to cypress, oak, juniper, cedar, and more.

The issue with pollen is that it can induce allergies in many individuals. Some of the symptoms of pollen allergies include a runny nose, coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, and much more. In short, if you’re allergic to pollen and live in the Cold Spring area, you’re almost constantly going to be experiencing mild sickness.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are common in all areas of the country. When inhaled, they can trigger a variety of allergy symptoms, including but not limited to sneezing, coughing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes.

Pet Dander

Do you have cats or dogs in your home? If so, you undoubtedly have pet dander floating around in your air. Not only can this result in a range of allergy symptoms, but it can also cause a home’s air to feel heavy and dirty.

Bacteria and Viruses

There are bacteria and viruses floating in your air as well. These can lead to the common cold, flu, pneumonia, and a variety of other health issues.

Maintaining Your HVAC System to Resist Allergens and Pollutants

There are clearly allergens and pollutants floating around in Cold Spring, TX air. The question is: how do you combat them? The answer lies in your HVAC system.

By maintaining your HVAC system in the right way, you can ensure that it resists the inward flow of allergens and pollutants. Here’s how to do that.

Change Your HVAC Air Filter

First up, you can change your HVAC air filter. In fact, you need to change your HVAC air filter. It should be changed every 2 to 3 months, unless you have furry pets in the home, in which case, it should be changed every month or so.

If you don’t change your HVAC filter on time, it will become inundated with dust and debris, and allow allergens to pass into your duct system unhindered. Should this occur, you’ll have allergens and pollutants perpetually blown into your indoor air.

Not to mention, when an HVAC filter is inundated with dust and debris, the HVAC system can’t function at its full capacity. Therefore, it won’t be able to thoroughly flush out allergens from within the home.

Clean Your Air Ducts

Filter changes alone won’t keep air ducts clean. They’ll accumulate dust and debris regardless of what you do. Every 5 years or so, you need to clean out your air ducts.

You can attempt to do this on your own. Be warned, however, that it’s a fairly intensive project. This is why it’s better put in the hands of a seasoned HVAC company.

They have the knowledge and equipment to clean air ducts efficiently. They’ll get the job done quickly, ensuring that allergens and pollutants aren’t being sucked into your home.

Install an Air Purifier

Another thing you can do is install an air purifier. An air purifier essentially grabs all of the contaminants in the home’s air and then filters them outside the home, protecting the home’s occupants from their negative effects.

There are many types of air purifiers in existence. If you want the best results possible, you should invest in an air purifier that can be installed within your HVAC ducts. These air purifiers are highly beneficial because they come into contact with every single airborne contaminant a home has to offer.

They essentially ensure that all airborne contaminants are driven from a home. This results in minimal allergy symptoms, not to mention the cleanest air possible.

If you’re interested in installing an in-duct air purifier, call your local HVAC company now. They’ll not only supply you with an air purifier but install it for you as well.

Your HVAC System Is a Connection to the Outdoors

When thinking of how your HVAC system can combat airborne pollutants, it’s vital to remember that your HVAC system is a connection to the outdoors. It consistently cycles air in and out of your home.

Note, though, that it doesn’t just cycle air in and out. It also cycles allergens and pollutants.

This is why it’s vital to ensure that your HVAC system is working at its max capacity. To ensure this, you must provide your HVAC system with regular maintenance.

Not only should you ensure that the HVAC system’s AC and furnace parts are replaced as needed, but you should also ensure that the HVAC system is cleaned, tuned up, and properly calibrated. The better your HVAC system functions, the fewer allergens and pollutants you’ll have to deal with inside of your home.

You’re advised to schedule annual maintenance appointments with your local HVAC company. They’ll inspect your HVAC system thoroughly, ensuring that it’s doing its job.

Looking to Make Your HVAC System Allergen-Resistant in Cold Spring, TX?

Are you ready to make your HVAC system allergen-resistant in Cold Spring, TX? If so, look no further than Best Air Conditioning & Heating.

We offer a wide range of HVAC services, from AC repair services to AC tune-up, AC maintenance, and more. Regardless of your HVAC needs, we have you covered.

Contact us today to discuss your needs and get the process started!

Jul 11
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What Temperature Should I Have My AC Set at in Livingston, TX?

By HVAC Expert | Air Conditioning Services

Every year, people and businesses in the United States spend over $123 billion on HVAC contractor services. That is a powerful indicator of how much people value being able to keep their homes at a comfortable temperature. It takes more than 659,000 people around the country to provide for our HVAC needs.

As much as people value keeping their homes cool enough in the summer, they also want to keep their energy costs down. As a result, many people ask, “What temperature should I have my AC set at in Livingston, Texas in the summer?”

There are a lot of factors that can affect the exact setting on your AC system that makes sense for your home. Taking the time to learn about these factors can help you make a savvy choice that will keep you comfortable and help you save money. So what temperature should you set your AC at this summer?

Read on to learn all about the factors to consider as you choose an AC setting in Livingston, Texas!

What Temperature Should I Have My AC Set At?

The first thing to understand is that there is no one thermostat setting that is perfect for every person and every home. Some people might care more about setting a lower AC temperature because the heat bothers them more than the average person. On the other hand, someone else might want to place a special emphasis on keeping their energy bill each month as low as possible.

On top of that, it is important to think about things like your home insulation as you decide what AC setting is right for you. If you have poor insulation, you might need a lower setting to keep your home at a bearable temperature.

The Best AC Temperature for Energy Savings

When it comes to cost savings, the higher you set your AC temperature, the better. When your AC temperature is set high, it does not kick in nearly as much. That provides a number of cost savings benefits.

First, it means that your AC system consumes much less energy. A lot of people have no idea how much electricity it takes to keep an AC system running. In some homes, the AC ends up responsible for a full half of all of the energy consumption.

That may be expensive all on its own, but that goes double when energy prices are high. In recent months and years, the cost of electricity has been increasing all around the world. Electricity costs are also higher during the summer months when there is a lot of demand for energy use.

On top of that, setting your thermostat to a higher temperature allows your AC system to take a break. If your AC is running all the time, it will wear out much faster than if it can shut off once in a while. That means that choosing a higher AC setting can also end up saving you money on AC repair and replacement costs.

At the same time, there is no point in having an AC if you are not going to use it at all. So what is a good setting if you are focusing on energy savings?

Setting your thermostat to 78° is a good idea if you do not need to keep your home too cool and want to keep your costs down as much as possible. But what if you want to focus more on comfort?

What to Set a Thermostat at for Comfort

People tend to get used to whatever temperatures they encounter the most. Some people are used to cooler temperatures and feel hot if a home gets higher than 70°. Some people prefer even lower temperatures, especially at night when they are trying to sleep.

However, the majority of people find that setting their thermostat to 72° is often enough to keep things perfectly comfortable. Although this can end up costing more money, it might be worth it to enjoy relaxing at home.

Balancing Energy Costs and Comfort

Of course, most people want to aim at comfort and cost savings at the same time. In such cases, you might want to choose a middle thermostat setting around 75°. That way, your thermostat will still get to turn off on occasion and help you save money.

At the same time, your home will be cool enough that you can stay comfortable. In fact, setting your thermostat to an even higher setting can still allow for plenty of comfort if you combine your AC setting with other tools for staying cool.

Factors Affecting the Best AC Temperature for Summer

Using fans is often a great way to help people feel cooler without having to spend as much on air conditioning. Running a fan costs very little energy compared to keeping your AC on. Some people find that they can bump up their thermostat setting by several degrees as long as they have a fan nearby to help them stay cool.

During the summer months in Livingston, Texas, you might also want to focus on staying as hydrated as possible. When people get dehydrated, a home can seem unbearably hot even if it is at a reasonable temperature.

Try experimenting with hydration and fans and seeing if that adjusts the best AC setting for your home this summer!

Know What Setting to Use for Your AC

If you have ever wondered, “What temperature should I have my AC set at?”, we hope you now have your answer. Understanding more about the factors affecting your ideal AC setting can help you make the right choice for your unique situation. In the long run, that can allow you to enjoy the perfect balance of comfort and efficiency.

To learn more about how you can find the best HVAC services for your needs in Livingston, TX, reach out and get in touch with our team at Best Air Conditioning and Heating at any time!

Jun 13
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How to Find the Best Onalaska, TX HVAC Company for Your Needs

By HVAC Expert | Air Conditioning Services

The ability to control the temperature of our homes increases our quality of life more than almost any other tool we have. Maybe that is one reason why people spend so much on the services of heating and air conditioning contractors. In the United States alone, the HVAC contractor industry earns more than $123 billion each year! 

Trying to find the best HVAC companies can be difficult because this industry is so enormous. However, the right techniques can help you maximize the chance that you find the best HVAC contractors for your specific needs.

On top of that, you can use the principles in this article to find the right HVAC company for you without needing to spend too much time on it. So what can you do to find the best Onalaska, TX HVAC company for you?

Read on to learn all about the top things to pay attention to when you are selecting an HVAC company!

Know What Services You Want

One important thing to realize is that there is no such thing as the best HVAC company for every situation. Depending on what you need, one HVAC company or another might be right for your situation.

For example, suppose that you want to find an HVAC contractor who can help you enjoy excellent indoor air quality. Almost any company you hire will be able to help you with your HVAC air filter. All by itself, that can go a long way to improving your indoor air quality.

However, if you want to do more to enjoy clean air at home, you might need to find a company that can help you with your ductwork as well. In this situation, you will want to find a company with as much experience helping customers with indoor air quality as possible.

The same basic principle applies if you have other specific needs. Whenever possible, you will want to find companies that have special expertise in taking care of the specific problems that you have.

When you speak with an HVAC contractor you might hire, consider asking them about their experience. Ask them about what kinds of HVAC problems they have the most experienced resolving.

You can also look at HVAC company websites to see if they mention the specific things you need help with.

Get Help When Hiring HVAC Companies

One of the great things about looking for an HVAC company to hire is that almost everyone has needed the help of an HVAC contractor at one point or another. That means that a lot of the people you know will have a lot of experience with better and worse HVAC contractors.

You might want to ask them for help when you are trying to decide which HVAC company is right for your situation. Reach out to family and friends and ask them if they know of a great HVAC company they can recommend to you.

However, as you do so, it might also be helpful for you to talk with them about the exact HVAC services you need. Otherwise, they might recommend a great company that is not the right fit for your unique situation.

Look For HVAC Contractors With Positive Reviews

Many great HVAC companies have positive reviews on their website. That is an easy way to see for yourself how satisfied past customers have been with their work. However, you can also find ratings and reviews for HVAC companies in many places on the internet.

Consider looking through the reviews for many different HVAC companies and seeing if one or more companies seem to have especially positive reviews. It can also be helpful to look at overall ratings if you want to rule certain companies out.

If one of the HVAC company candidates you are looking at has horrible overall ratings, it might make sense for you to stop investigating them so that you can focus more on options with better ratings and reviews.

Find HVAC Help at the Right Price

Try to get the clearest estimate you can from each of the HVAC companies you consider.

When you get an estimate, you might want to ask about how often each company encounters expensive complications when working on the kind of job you need to be done. That can give you some sense of how likely it is that each company’s estimate will underestimate the actual cost of the job.

It is important not to skimp on quality when it comes to something as important as your HVAC system. However, if you find a few HVAC companies that can provide you with quality work, it might make sense for you to go with whichever of them can get the job done at the lowest price.

Choose a Responsive HVAC Company

Make sure to note down which HVAC companies you contact are the most responsive. If a company takes a little while to get back to you, you might continue to experience communication delays later on.

If you are not sure which company to choose from among your remaining options, sometimes you can just choose whichever company is the easiest to work with.

Know How to Find the Best HVAC Companies for You

We hope that learning about how to find the best HVAC companies for your needs has been helpful for you. It is often not a good idea to rush through the process of choosing who you will trust to help you with your HVAC system. Spending a little extra time to make sure that you hire a quality company is an investment that will pay for itself in the long run.

To learn more about how to find the best HVAC companies in Onalaska, TX for you, reach out and get in touch with us here at Best Air Conditioning and Heating!

May 16
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Air Conditioner Leaking: 5 Tips for Hiring AC Repair Services in Point Black, TX

By HVAC Expert | Air Conditioning Services

According to the Energy Information Association, 87% of American households have air conditioning. Despite this number, only 43% of Americans have yearly AC maintenance done.

Finding AC repair near me is very important for your AC maintenance. Common issues that would need repairing are air conditioner leaking and AC pan leaking.

You should have cooling maintenance done every year for your AC system. This will ensure you have fewer repairs to fix and fewer AC expenses.

Keep reading to find out how to find the best AC repair services in Point Black, TX.

1. Read Online Reviews

When you’re looking into AC companies, you need to look at reviews. This is one of the first things you should do if you have a list of potential options.

All the Point Black, TX, companies should have plenty of online reviews. Look over these reviews to see if you spot anything that could apply to you.

Don’t be overly concerned if there are some negative reviews. This is quite common, and it could happen for a variety of reasons.

The main thing to look for is any common complaints or concerns. This could be a red flag, depending on what the complaint is.

This is also a good time to see if that company has dealt with your kind of issue. For instance, if you have air conditioner leaking issues, look for reviews mentioning this.

2. Compare Estimates

When it comes to AC tune-up, it is important to compare the estimates you receive. It is always ideal to look for an AC repair-free estimate from a company.

If a company is charging you for the estimate, you may want to look at other options. This is because you should gather a variety of estimates from different companies.

High-quality companies provide free estimates since they don’t require much work. This gives you an idea of how much your repair or maintenance will be.

Keep in mind that you don’t want to base your decision on the cheapest estimate. Affordability is important, but quality is more important when it comes to your AC system.

3. Verify Requirements

It is also important that an AC repair company has the qualifications. Every state is different when it comes to HVAC technician licensing.

You want to look at the website to see what experience is displayed. The company should showcase its licensing and the experience that its contractors have.

This ensures that this company is legitimate and meets the requirements. If you can’t find this information online, you can always contact the company directly.

4. Consider Customer Service

If you have an air conditioner leaking, you need to find a company fast. One area to look at when choosing a company is the customer service team.

You will most likely be working with this AC company in the future. Because of this, you want to make sure they are friendly and easy to work with.

One way to identify this is how the customer service team behaves. They should be polite and helpful and easy to contact when you need them.

If your calls never seem to go through, this could be a bad sign. You also don’t want to work with a company that disregards your concerns or speaks to you rudely.

5. Look Into Services

Most AC companies provide the same kinds of services for homeowners. But there are instances where they may not offer the same kinds of things.

It is a good idea to look for a company that encompasses all of the services you may need. It is a good idea to go with a company that also provides HVAC services.

This ensures that you will be able to use the same company for your heating and cooling needs. This saves time and allows you to rely on the same reputable source.

It is also important to have a trustworthy company on your side. You may have an emergency and need a repair done quickly.

When Do You Need AC Repair?

There are a variety of reasons why you may need AC repair in Point Black, TX. You may be experiencing an issue with your AC, resulting in it not running.

This is often the result of a larger issue that may have gone unnoticed. Repairs are also required for smaller issues like leaking that should be addressed quickly.

Small repairs may not seem important, but they do need to be fixed. If left unaddressed, these issues could become much more severe and costly.

It is also a good idea to have anything unusual with your AC checked. This could be something as simple as a strange noise or an unpleasant odor.

It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to something like your AC system. This is also why AC maintenance is so important for homeowners to invest in.

A good AC company should be able to provide maintenance as well as preventative repairs. 

Air Conditioner Leaking: Finding AC Repair

If you are looking for AC repair near me, you may be having a problem with your system. Air conditioner leaking and other issues or something that needs to quickly be fixed.

To find the right AC repair company, you need to look online and compare estimates. You also need to look into the services that are provided to make sure they have everything you need.

Best Air and Heat is a company that provides both heating and cooling services. This includes installations, repairs, and maintenance.

Do you need air conditioner repair in your home? Contact us today at Best Air and Heat to get a free estimate.

Apr 14
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energy saving tips

HVAC Energy Saving Tips For Cold Spring, TX Homeowners

By HVAC Expert | Service Area

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, space heating and cooling account for approximately 42% of the average household’s energy costs. For homeowners in Cold Spring, TX, where temperatures can vary greatly throughout the year, this cost can be even higher. However, there are many HVAC energy saving tips that homeowners can implement to reduce their energy consumption and lower their energy bills.

In this article, we will explore some of the top HVAC energy-saving tips for Cold Spring, TX homeowners. Keep reading to learn more.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

We start our energy-saving tips by recommending a programmable thermostat. With a programmable thermostat, you can set different temperature levels for different times of the day. This means you can adjust the temperature when you’re away from home or sleeping.

This will significantly lower your energy bill since your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the day.

Keep Your Air Filters Clean

When your air filters are dirty, your HVAC system has to work that much harder. Make sure to clean and replace regularly—preferably once a month. You will notice a significant improvement in the air quality of your Cold Springs home.

Seal Air Leaks

Another one of our energy-saving tips is to seal air leaks by using weatherstripping or caulking. Your energy consumption will go down and the comfort of your living space will improve as a result.

Use Ceiling Fans

Another way to reduce the workload on your HVAC system is to use ceiling fans. They will help circulate the airflow in your home.

In the hot Texas summer months, set your ceiling fans to rotate counterclockwise. This will help create a cooling breeze. In the winter, rotate them clockwise to help push warm air down from the ceiling.

Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

To keep your HVAC system running smoothly, regular maintenance is a must. We recommend scheduling a professional HVAC inspection at least once a year. This will help identify any potential issues and keep your HVAC system running at peak efficiency.

Use Curtains and Blinds

Simply using curtains and blinds will help block out the sun and keep your home cooler during the summer months. Close your curtains and blinds during the hottest parts of the day too.

Consider Upgrading to a High-Efficiency System

If your heating and cooling costs have been high for a while, it may be time to upgrade your HVAC system. This is especially true if your HVAC system is more than 10 years old.

Newer HVAC systems are much more energy-efficient than older models. Over time, they’ll provide significant long-term savings.

Use a Dehumidifier

High humidity levels can make your home feel uncomfortable, even when the temperature is relatively cool. To combat this, consider using a dehumidifier in areas of your home that are particularly humid, like the basement or bathroom.

Conversely, in the winter, adding humidity to the air can help it feel warmer, allowing you to lower the temperature on your thermostat without sacrificing comfort.

Install Insulation

Proper insulation is essential to keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Make sure your home is properly insulated, especially in the attic, walls, and floors.

Adjust Your Vents

Make sure your air vents are open and unobstructed to ensure proper airflow throughout your home. You can also adjust the vents in each room to ensure that the rooms you use the most receive the most airflow.

Use Natural Ventilation

During cooler months, take advantage of natural ventilation by opening windows and doors to let fresh air circulate throughout your home. This can help provide a refreshing change from artificially cooled or heated air.

Plant Trees or Install Shading Devices

Planting trees or installing shading devices like awnings or pergolas can help block out the sun’s rays. Just make sure not to plant trees too close to your home’s foundation, as the roots can cause damage over time.

Use Energy-Efficient Lighting

Energy-efficient lighting can help reduce the amount of heat generated by your light bulbs. Switch to LED or CFL bulbs, which use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.

Consider Zoning Your HVAC System

Zoning your HVAC system can help you control the temperature in different areas of your home more efficiently. By installing multiple thermostats and dampers in your ductwork, you can adjust the temperature in each room individually.

Consider Alternative Heating and Cooling Options

Consider alternative options like geothermal heat pumps, ductless mini-split systems, or radiant floor heating. These systems can be more expensive upfront, but they can provide significant energy savings over time and reduce your impact on the environment.

Use Exhaust Fans

Exhaust fans in your bathroom and kitchen can help remove excess moisture and heat from your home, reducing the workload on your HVAC system. Make sure to use these fans during and after showering or cooking to improve air quality and reduce the humidity in your home.

Stay Cool and Use These Energy-Saving Tips

Implementing HVAC energy-saving tips can make a significant impact on energy consumption and costs for Cold Spring, TX homeowners. By making simple changes to the way you use and maintain your HVAC system, you can improve its efficiency, save money on energy bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Our HVAC specialists at Best Air Conditioning & Heating, are here to help you select the best air-conditioning and heating services for your family. Don’t hesitate to contact us to set up a free in-home consultation.

Mar 21
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types of AC units

The Main Types of AC Units for Woodville, TX Homes

By HVAC Expert | Air Conditioning Services

The air conditioner was invented in 1902. Since then, there have been some changes and advancements, and AC units are now more important than ever. There are also numerous types of air conditioning units used in homes and businesses.

It is critical to comprehend these types of air conditioners. This is because some home air conditioners are better suited to your needs than others. But where do you begin?

How do you decide which option is the best? Continue reading to learn more about your home AC unit options in Woodville, TX.

Ducted Air Conditioning vs. Central Air Conditioning

Central or ducted air conditioning is a very common type of AC found in many modern and older homes. It’s also one of the most energy-efficient air conditioners on the market. The heart of this system is a large compressor located outside your home.

It also has an internal evaporative unit that helps cool the air through evaporation. A duct system runs throughout the house as well. These ducts are linked to vents located throughout the house.

The air inside your home will become cooler as cool air flows through these ducts and vents. Most new homes must include a ducted air conditioning system. If you don’t have AC ducts but want some, you’ll have to tear up large sections of your house.

This is due to the fact that the ducts run through the walls and ceilings. This is why many people do not choose ducted air conditioning systems if their home does not already have one. They may choose a more convenient and cost-effective system instead.

Key Factors

If your house already has ductwork, you’re in luck. These ducts are extremely efficient at delivering cold air directly to rooms throughout your home. They are especially effective at cooling down large homes or office buildings.

This option is also far from unsightly. This is because the majority of the AC system is hidden in the walls and is not visible. The compressor on the outside of the house is the most visible part of the system.

Depending on where they are, the vents inside the house may also be visible. If you want efficient and widespread effects from your AC unit, this is an excellent choice.

Wall Hung Split Ductless Air Conditioning

Ductless air conditioning systems are also very common. Because they are a more recent innovation, they are especially common in modern homes. This unit combines two units into one.

This is because one part of the unit is outside the house and the other is inside. They all work together to keep your home cool and fresh. The great thing about this system is that you can specify which rooms you want to keep cool.

You have the ability to cool down the living room if you only want to do so. This prevents cool air from being wasted in unoccupied rooms. The main disadvantage of this system is that it is more noticeable than the ducted system.

The internal compressor is typically mounted high on a wall somewhere in your home. This can be an eyesore, especially if your home’s interior design is important to you. While there are ways to conceal or cover this compressor, it cannot be completely hidden.

What You Need to Know 

This air conditioning unit is less expensive than a ducted system. However, it is more expensive than more traditional AC systems. The main advantage of this system is its efficiency.

Controlling how air flows through your home ensures that no air is wasted. This system is also simpler to integrate into an existing home. This is because there are no ducts that require tearing down the walls to install.

However, some changes to your home will be required to accommodate this new system. While this will cost you money, it will be much less than the cost of installing a new ducted AC system.

Window Air Conditioner

A window window air conditioner is one of the simplest AC units you can buy. Most people do not choose this option because it is inefficient, unless you have a very small home or room. This air conditioner is a small unit that is installed within a window frame.

This unit includes everything required to cool the air. There is no need for ducts, home modifications, or anything else. The most significant advantage of this option is its low cost.

This is not surprising given how small and compact it is. The disadvantage is that it is not very effective at cooling multiple rooms at once. This AC unit may be a good option if you spend a lot of time in one room and want to cool it down.

This unit is also very portable. If you move to a new location, you can conveniently take your window air conditioner with you. 

All About Different Types of AC Units

It is critical to consider these various types of AC units in order to find the best one for your needs. Ducted air conditioners are very efficient, but they are also very expensive. Ductless systems are less expensive and more convenient. Window air conditioners are inexpensive but only work in one room.

To learn more about air conditioner repair and installation consultations in Woodville, TX, check out our services at Best Air Conditioning & Heating. 

Feb 14
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common AC installation errors

7 Common AC Installation Errors to Avoid for Livingston Homeowners

By HVAC Expert | Air Conditioning Services

In the United States, people spent over $120 billion on the services of heating and air conditioning contractors every single year. More than 650,000 people work in this industry so that we can enjoy modern HVAC systems.

However, many people need to replace their AC systems sooner than they would otherwise need to because of common AC installation errors. The market for new HVAC systems might not be as large if more people knew how to maximize the longevity and functionality of their systems with a quality installation. But what are the most common AC installation errors people make in Livingston, TX?

Read on to learn all about these common errors and how you can avoid them during your own AC installation process!

1. Choosing the Wrong AC System Size

One of the easiest mistakes to make is choosing an AC unit that is the wrong size for your home and situation.

If you choose a unit that is too small, your home will struggle to get as cool as you would like. On top of that, the AC system will probably need to run all the time.

AC systems last much longer when they can take occasional breaks. If your system is too small and has to run all the time, it will wear out faster and you will need to spend money on an expensive replacement.

On the other hand, if you choose a unit that is too big, you will pay more for it than you need to.

2. Installing the Thermostat in the Wrong Place

Many AC units do not work the way they are supposed to because the thermostat is installed in a location that is less than ideal. Your thermostat keeps track of the temperature in your home so that your AC system can know when you want it to turn on and make the home cooler. The thermostat also detects when your home reaches the correct temperature so that your AC system knows when to turn it off.

However, different areas in your home will be warmer or colder than others. If your thermostat is in an unusually warm area, your AC system will think that the whole house is warm.

That means that it will stay on all the time and it may even make your home cooler than you intend. This can also raise your energy bills. Considering how high energy bills have been in recent history, it is even more important than usual to avoid this problem.

If you place your thermostat in a cool area of your home, your thermostat will tend to think the whole house is cool. In such cases, it might not turn on even when your home is uncomfortably warm.

This can lead people to conclude that there is a problem with their AC unit itself. However, poor thermostat placement is often the culprit.

3. Misplacing the Condenser During the AC Installation Process

Some contractors rush through the installation process and end up placing the condenser in the wrong location. Your condenser needs to be somewhere where it can stay cool and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Otherwise, it may overheat and your AC system will stop functioning.

4. Overfilling Residential AC System Refrigerants

AC systems tend to run out of refrigerant after enough use. However, some people respond by adding too much refrigerant during the installation process.

If your unit has too much refrigerant in it, then it will not be able to properly cool down air for your home. Fortunately, solving this problem is often as simple as removing some of the extra refrigerants in the system.

However, this solution is only easy to apply if you first realize what is going on. When your system is malfunctioning, it can take a while to figure out if the problem is as simple as a little extra refrigerant.

5. Shoddy Ductwork Installation

Even if your AC unit itself is installed well, you need to match that with excellent ductwork. Your AC unit needs to transport cool air from a single location to every extremity of your home. The only way for it to do this is with efficient ductwork.

But if your ductwork has leaks in it, then your system will not be able to deliver cool air to the farthest corners of your home.

However, this will not only keep some areas of your home from cooling down. It will also force your AC unit to work harder and harder. That can increase your energy bills and cause your unit to wear out faster.

6. Installing Vents in the Wrong Areas

On the other hand, some contractors place AC vents in the wrong areas around homes. Even if your unit is working fine, this can cause some areas of your home to get cooler faster than others. Unfortunately, resolving this problem can require contractors to change the arrangement of vents around your home.

7. Replacing AC Units Without Adding Insulation

It is essential to wrap insulation around the suction line of your AC unit so that it can work properly. Otherwise, the system may lose pressure.

If your AC unit is blowing air that is room temperature, this may be the cause. Solving this problem can be as simple as having quality contractors add the missing insulation to your AC suction line.

Avoid the Most Common AC Installation Errors in Livingston, TX

The more that you know about common AC installation errors, the better the chance that you can avoid all of them. The better your AC installation process goes, the less likely you are to discover little problems weeks or even months later. You will live with the results of your AC installation for many years, so it is crucial to invest in quality installation.

To learn more about how you can find the best AC installation services in Livingston, TX, reach out and get in touch with us here at any time!