When It’s Time to Call an HVAC Technician as Opposed to DIY

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Air Conditioner Not Cooling - Tulsa, OK

If heating or cooling problems strike, should you call in a HVAC technician or rely on your own do-it-yourself skills? Changing the system air filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations and keeping the outdoor AC clear of weeds and other obstructions is definitely DIY. However, any other diagnosis and repair of furnaces or air conditioners is a job that’s best left to a qualified HVAC technician with the proper training, experience, and professional certification.

Read on to learn some reasons why “don’t do it yourself” is almost always the best recourse when heating or cooling issues arise.

It Can Be Dangerous

HVAC systems present serious potential hazards to the inexperienced nonprofessional, including:

• Furnaces use flammable, toxic natural gas and develop extremely high temperatures that may result in explosion or fire. The furnace combustion process also produces hazardous byproducts, including deadly carbon monoxide.

• Central air conditioners circulate toxic refrigerant under pressure. EPA certification is required to handle or use these substances. The powerful AC compressor and associated components utilize a high-voltage, hardwired electrical circuit that should not be accessed by persons without proper training.

Not Using an HVAC Technician Will Void the Warranty

The terms of HVAC manufacturers' warranties specify that repair work must be performed by certified HVAC contractors and technicians only. Doing it yourself will invalidate warranty coverage, and you will be responsible for any and all costs incurred as a result.

You’re Not Equipped

Diagnosing and repairing today’s HVAC units requires more than what’s in the typical homeowner’s toolbox. Advanced technology and precise, specialized tools are required to get the job done efficiently and safely.

It Will Cost You More

Another potential casualty of DIY work on HVAC equipment is the unit's energy-efficiency rating. Amateur adjustments or repairs on a furnace or AC may degrade efficiency and result in higher monthly electrical or gas bills for as long as the unit is installed.

For a qualified HVAC technician with recognized industry certification to resolve any issues with your heating and cooling components, contact the professionals at Air Assurance.

What Are the Benefits of AC Tune-Up & Maintenance Services

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AC Tune-Up & Maintenance Services

Your HVAC system should have routine maintenance done to make sure it’s able to work properly throughout the year. An HVAC maintenance contract can provide you with a steady plan so you can keep your HVAC system in good working condition. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of these contracts for Broken Arrow homeowners.

Long Lifespan for HVAC Equipment

When you have routine HVAC maintenance done, this can help your HVAC equipment last longer. Going without maintenance can lead to more wear and tear on HVAC systems, which can cause them to break down before reaching their expected life span. Regular maintenance helps keep HVAC equipment in good shape year after year, resulting in a lower risk of damage and better efficiency.

Cost Savings in an HVAC Maintenance Contract

While maintenance visits aren’t free, they can help homeowners save a considerable amount of money over the years. These visits help your HVAC system run at optimal efficiency, resulting in less energy usage and lower energy bills. You’ll also have a reduced risk of having to pay for costly or frequent repairs when you have routine HVAC maintenance done. These savings can add up over time.

Possible HVAC Service Discounts

Some HVAC companies offer discounts to customers who sign an HVAC maintenance contract. These discounts might include parts and labor, repair services, and emergency or after-hours fees. The exact discounts you’ll get will depend on the company you have a contract with. Ask about discounts before signing a contract if you’re looking for more ways to save on HVAC services.

Convenience

Your HVAC system should have maintenance done once or twice a year. If you’re worried about forgetting to schedule these visits, having a contract in place means you won’t have to remember, since you’ll automatically have HVAC maintenance set up as part of your contract, providing you with convenience and peace of mind.

If you’re interested in setting up an HVAC maintenance contract, please contact Air Assurance. We offer planned maintenance service plans for homeowners in the Broken Arrow area.

AC Estimates Tulsa, OK | Repair vs. Replace

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AC Estimates Tulsa, OK | Repair vs. Replace

A time will come when you'll have to choose between repairing and replacing your HVAC unit. Considering the importance and considerable cost of an HVAC system, you'll want to ensure you make the best decision for your house and for your family. So when should you repair or replace? Let's explore the crucial factors you should consider when it comes to repair or replace.

Age

HVAC systems generally last 10 to 15 years. If your furnace has lasted more than 15 years or your air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you should consider replacing them. An aging HVAC system will exhibit certain warning signs. The system may make unusual noises when starting up, your home may be damp or stuffy, or you may have to adjust the thermostat constantly to stay comfortable.

Need for Repairs

If you haven't incurred significant maintenance or repair costs since installing your HVAC unit, it may be better to repair it. However, consider replacing it if it keeps needing repairs. An excellent formula you can use is multiplying the system's age by the repair costs. If the result is more than $5,000, it's better to replace the unit.

How Long You'll Stay in Your House

If you're not planning to stay in your current house for long, the better option may be to repair your unit. A new unit's installation costs will most likely be higher than what you'd get back from the resulting increase in your home's sale price. However, it's best to replace your unit if it's very old, as that could hurt your home's sale price.

Your Current Unit's Efficiency

The older your current system is, the more inefficient it's likely to be when compared to modern units. Today's units have high efficiency ratings in addition to advanced features, such as variable-speed technology, that drastically increase your energy savings. Upgrading your older system allows you to take advantage of home-comfort advancements that deliver improved efficiency and maximize energy savings.

Still don't know whether to repair or replace? An HVAC technician can help you figure out an HVAC unit's lifetime cost analysis and return on investment to help you make a more informed decision. For all your HVAC repair or replace needs in the Broken Arrow area, contact the certified technicians at Air Assurance.

Tulsa Heat and Air Companies

Tulsa Heat and Air Companies

How To Choose A Good Heating Contractor

You rely on your home's heating system to keep your home cozy and warm throughout the winter months, so it's vital to hire a skilled and trustworthy heating contractor when it needs maintenance, repairs or a replacement. Here are some essential qualities to look for in the contractor you hire, so you know you're making a wise choice:

License and Insurance

Reputable HVAC professionals in the Tulsa area will hold a valid mechanical contractor's license with the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board. When you know that a contractor is licensed, you'll have peace of mind that they have relevant industry experience, have passed the state's qualifying exam and posted a bond. Licensed contractors must also have workers' compensation and liability insurance coverage that helps protect you in the event that damage or injuries occur.

Longevity and Good Reputation

A heating contractor who does quality work and provides superior customer service will have a long history in the area, as well as positive reviews and recognition awards from both the HVAC industry and the local community. The best contractors are also members of leading HVAC associations, such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), which allows them to stay current on the latest industry advancements and best practices.

Technician Certifications

A contractor you can trust with your home's comfort equipment insists that their technicians have attained certification from NATE, the independent organization that's the recognized leader in technician skill and knowledge testing and certification. This gives you the assurance that your technician has the training and know-how to properly maintain, repair or replace your heating equipment.

Workmanship Guarantees

Contractors who provide top-notch installation and repair services and are fully confident in their workmanship quality are willing to stand behind it with a written guarantee. When it comes to the reliability of your heating system, choosing such a contractor can let you rest easy knowing that you're in the best of hands.

When you looking for a heating contractor in the Broken Arrow area, contact us at Air Assurance to learn more about our dedication to providing outstanding service and customer care.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC contractors and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-258-2665.

AC not cooling: AC Issues You'll Encounter

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You really on your HVAC system to keep your home comfortable no matter what the weather or time of year. Servicing and maintenance for common HVAC issues is a must, and even the best HVAC systems require professional servicing. By being aware of common HVAC issues, you can know what to expect, what to look for, and when to contact a professional for assistance.

Three Common HVAC Issues

1. Electrical Issues. As with many complex systems, your HVAC system can develop wiring issues. These can be frayed wires, electrical shorts, and other related issues. This can cause unpredictable performance and other issues. Your thermostat is a common part of your HVAC system that can have electrical issues. A bad thermostat makes the operation of your HVAC system unpredictable and, in a worst-case scenario, can make it inoperable.

2. Clogged Filters. Your HVAC system’s filters are one of its most common service items. Over time, dust and other debris can cause your air filters to become clogged. This reduces the effectiveness of your HVAC system and also increases stress on various parts, which can shorten the useful life span of your HVAC system.

3. Strange Noises. If your HVAC system is making strange sounds, it can be a sign that an underlying issue needs attention from a professional. If you hear sounds such as banging, squeaking, or rattling, issues can include lose parts or issues with your blower motor. A professional can isolate what is causing these odd sounds and make proper repairs.

When You Need HVAC Service for Common HVAC Issues

At Air Assurance, we strive to provide residents of Broken Arrow and all nearby communities with the best in HVAC service. We help with a variety of HVAC service and repair needs, including regular servicing, repairs, and system replacement and installation. If your HVAC system is not operating correctly or providing the level of performance you expect, contact us today to see how we can help.