How do I find a good HVAC contractor in Houston?
The simplest way to locate Houston’s best HVAC or AC contractors is by searching for pros online. You can view the top-rated pros and compare their customer ratings and reviews. Don’t skip over any photos or images of the contractors’ past work. Review them carefully so you can get an idea of the contractors’ craftsmanship and skills.
You should also research the pros’ background and qualifications. Do they have any certifications, licenses or other credentials? You can ask the pro this question, or you may be able to find this information online as well. For example, by visiting the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation website, you might be able to find out if the contractors have an air conditioning and refrigeration license.
Now, you’re finally ready to start gathering free estimates. Contact the top HVAC contractors in your area, and ask how much it will cost to install, repair or maintain your air conditioning unit or HVAC system. Choose the best pro for your needs based on the quotes they give you and the research you’ve conducted.
Do I need central air in Houston?
Houston is a hot and humid city, and central air may be necessary if you live there. Temperatures can reach well into the 90s (and even the 100s), and the humidity can be oppressive.
Households with very young children, elderly persons or people with certain medical conditions should strongly consider installing central air. Central air may also help prevent mold growth in homes by removing humidity from the air.
Contact Houston's best HVAC pros to get free estimates and start planning your central air installation project today.
What is the most common type of heating system?
The most common type of home heating system is a forced-air heating and cooling system. This type of heater involves a furnace, which is commonly powered by natural gas, forcing air through a series of ducts that distribute the hot air through different rooms in a house. Furnaces can run on other types of fuel, including electricity, propane and oil. This type of heating system is quite popular because it doubles as a path for air conditioning in the summer.
Why is my air conditioner leaking water?
An air conditioner leaking inside the house is a common problem. It could indicate that the air filter is dirty. Or, one of the following may be the culprit:
- Clogged condensate drain line
- Leaky, damaged, cracked or rusted drain pan
- Dirty or broken coils
- Frozen evaporator coils
- Broken condensate pump
- Not enough refrigerant
- Disconnected drain line
If your AC is leaking, contact a repair service to find out what the problem is — and how much it will cost to fix it.
What is the most efficient heating system for a house?
Geothermal heating tends to be the most efficient way to heat a house when compared to traditional HVAC systems, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Geothermal heat pumps (also called ground-source heat pumps) transfer energy to and from the ground to supply heat, cool air and hot water.
Note that one of the most important ways to boost efficiency, save electricity and lower your heating bills is to make sure your house is weather-tight and well-insulated.
How much does it cost to install a heating system?
The cost of a heating system depends largely on the type and size of the heating system. For example:
- A geothermal heating and cooling system costs about $15,000 and ranges from $7,000 to $30,000.
- Electric radiant floor heating costs between $9,000 and $20,000 for a 1,600-square-foot home.
- An HVAC heating and cooling system costs around $3,000, with a range between $400 and $6,000.
- Heat pumps cost $1,780 to $3,630 to install.
- And furnace prices range from approximately $700 to $3,000.
To find out how much your new heating system will cost, contact heating and air companies near you and ask for free cost estimates.
Can I install central air myself?
While you may be able to do some preparation work for central air installation, you should hire a licensed contractor to complete the project and handle the air conditioning refrigerants.
Also, unless you have the proper credentials, you risk making common mistakes when installing central air. This may include installing the wrong-size furnace, improperly installing ductwork and exhaust systems, and incorrectly managing drainage.
To ensure your central air is installed correctly, contact the best HVAC pros near you and start getting free estimates today.
Does central air add value to a home?
A central air unit or HVAC system may add value to your home. Or, if you’re in the process of selling your home, it may help you close a sale.
The Remodeling Impact report found that 20% of realtors have suggested that home sellers replace their HVAC before attempting to sell their homes, and 7% said this project did help close a sale.
Talk with an expert to figure out if adding an HVAC system is a good idea for your home. And contact the best HVAC pros near you to get free estimates so you’ll know how much this project will cost you.
Is it worth it to install central air?
Depending on where you live, it might be worth it to install central air. Central air makes your house comfortable on hot summer days. And although it’s hard to predict if adding central air will increase your home’s value, prospective homebuyers will certainly notice if it’s missing.
Another advantage of central air is that it can help dehumidify your home. Not only will it make your home more comfortable and enjoyable, but it can also help prevent mold from growing or spreading.
Contact the best HVAC contractors near you to learn more about the central air installation process and to start receiving free estimates.
How long does it take to install a new heating system?
A new heating system generally takes a few days to install. Jobs that require new ductwork will take more time. And switching to a different type of heat fuel — propane, natural gas, oil or electricity — may require longer installation times as well, as they could require routing piping, regulators and other adjustments to your home.
