Best HVAC Brands to Buy

When you're in the market for a new HVAC system, you'll want to get a unit that provides reliable performance year after year. Such a system will make your life more comfortable and prevent you from having to shell out a small fortune regularly. Therefore, you should take the time to find out which HVAC brands stand out above the rest. Here are some of the best brands available today:

American Standard

American Standard has consistently been rated as one of the top premium brands. It's a bit pricey, but that shouldn't worry you a lot because you'll get excellent reliability and far fewer issues with its heat pumps and air conditioners.

Mitsubishi Electric

Mitsubishi Electric produces the most efficient HVAC systems on the market. They're widely used in Europe and Japan. The systems are ductless, so each room will need its own system. Installing the systems in your entire house is far more costly than having a central heating and cooling system.

Carrier

The company consistently earns high ratings for its sturdiness, efficiency, and quiet operation. It has a low percentage of units that need major repairs and maintenance, and it offers generous warranty coverage. If price isn't an issue for you, then this is a brand worth considering.

Lennox

This company keeps working to improve the efficiency of its equipment, and that's why it has models with efficiency levels of more than 98 percent and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) levels of up to 23.5. Many of its systems accept two types of fuel.

Ruud

This reliable brand is backed up by lots of testing and consumer reviews that describe its products as long-lasting. It makes both commercial and residential products. Its parts are readily available throughout the United States, making repairs not too expensive and warranty issues easy to clear.

Doing research on the top HVAC brands will go a long way to helping you find the best system for your needs. If you're unsure about which brand to choose, please contact us at Air Assurance. We proudly serve the Broken Arrow area.

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 brands and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Whose Responsibility are Apartment Maintenance Requests?

If something breaks, leaks or stops working in your apartment, how do you know whether to handle it yourself or submit a maintenance request? The best course of action is to email or phone your landlord to ask who's responsible for making repairs. Here's a look at some common apartment maintenance issues and who generally takes care of them:

Malfunctioning Appliances

Appliances like the stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, washer/dryer and hot water heater get a lot of use, so they're bound to malfunction or break down occasionally. If the issue is with an appliance that came with the apartment, your landlord needs to get it fixed or replace it.

Carbon Monoxide/Smoke Detectors

A landlord should test safety devices like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in between tenants to make sure they're working properly. While you're living there, you're responsible for replacing the detector batteries if they die, and you'll want to put in fresh ones right away so you're fully protected.

Plumbing System Problems

Who handles plumbing repairs really depends on whether you, the tenant, caused the problem. For example, if you're not careful with the garbage disposal and it seizes up, or you flush something bulky that clogs the toilet, you'll probably have to hire a plumber. If a supply line or water pipes starts leaking, or the fill valve fails on the toilet, fixing it is your landlord's responsibility.

Defective Window and Door Locks

If the entry door lock breaks or a window lock comes apart, put in a maintenance request right away so your landlord can get it repaired or replaced so your apartment stays safe and secure.

Heating or Cooling Issues

If your apartment has an individual heating and cooling system, and it freezes up, stops producing conditioned air, or won't start at all, don't hesitate to contact your landlord. They'll likely have it looked at by the maintenance crew to determine if an experienced HVAC professional should be called in.

If you need expert advice about an apartment maintenance problem that involves the heating or cooling equipment, contact the Broken Arrow comfort pros at Air Assurance.

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 apartment maintenance and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Free-Photos/Pixabay”

Bring Your Home Into the 21st Century With USB Receptacles

Smartphones, tablet computers, and similar electronic devices are common in the modern home. They require charging through a specialized wire that connects the device to a USB port in an adapter. The adapter, in turn, is plugged into a standard electrical outlet. These adapters can be large enough to block access to the second outlet. You can modernize your home with USB receptacles that offer standard electrical outlets along with dedicated USB ports.

Why Use USB Receptacles?

When you have USB ports on your receptacles, you don't have to plug in the bulky adapter to charge your devices. The USB wire from the device can be inserted directly into the port on the receptacle. This frees up space and allows you to use the electrical outlets and the USB charging ports at the same time.

Types of USB Receptacles

• Two outlets, two USB ports: This is the most common type of USB receptacle, with two normal electrical outlets and two USB ports. The ports are usually installed in the space between the outlets and are positioned at the far left and right of the receptacle itself. This configuration gives you plenty of room for your USB charging while maintaining the number of electrical outlets you expect.

• One outlet, two USB ports: In some cases, a USB receptacle will have an electrical outlet at the bottom and two USB ports on top. This configuration would work fine in most situations, although it leaves you with one less electrical outlet than normal.

• Four USB ports: Specialized USB receptacles are available that contain only USB ports, usually four ports in a vertical line. They do not have any electrical outlets at all, but they can be preferable in cases where you have multiple USB devices that need to be charged at once, quickly and efficiently.

Heating and cooling customers in Tulsa and the neighboring communities know that Air Assurance is the best choice for expert HVAC sales, service, and maintenance. Contact us today for more information on USB receptacles and how they can modernize your home and make device charging more convenient.

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 USB receptacles and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “eroyka/Pixabay”

Buying a New Home: Have an HVAC Inspection by a Professional

Buying a home, whether pre-owned or new, is a daunting task. You want to make sure everything is as near perfect as you can afford -- and that includes the HVAC system. That's why, beyond the regular home inspection, you need a separate HVAC inspection before you commit to a down payment.

Why a Home Inspection Isn't Enough

Generally a home inspector goes through a house and performs a visual inspection of all main systems. Afterward, the inspector will give the clients a written home inspector contract and inspection report. This report will include inspection of the heating, cooling and venting systems, as well as energy sources and distribution equipment. The inspector will also report on insulation and vents.The only action the inspector will perform on the HVAC is to turn the systems on and off to make sure they work. This won't tell you some important things you need to know, such as:

• Maintenance records for the system, including major repairs, and how old it is

• If the filter has been regularly changed

• How efficient the system is, as in average cost of annual utility bills

• If the system is sized correctly for the home

These are things the homeowner needs to know before investing in the house. You probably don't want to invest in a home where the HVAC system hasn't been kept up, unless you make provisions for repair or replacement by adjusting the purchase price.If you're looking at a new home, the inspector should check out the equipment and installation, including ductwork and ventilation, and should be able to assess in general how efficient the system is likely to be.

What You Should Do

Hire an experienced HVAC inspector to look at the system and be thorough in finding answers to the questions above. Remember, if the seller hasn't kept up the system in a pre-owned house with routine preventative maintenance, hidden flaws may be lurking that could cost thousands of dollars.To learn more about an HVAC inspection, contact Air Assurance. We've served Broken Arrow since 1985.

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 inspections and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “paulbr75/Pixabay”

Key Qualities to Look For in an HVAC Technician

Hiring an HVAC technician is a task that must be done with care. After all, you are trusting this person to complete repairs, service and/or installations that can affect the safety and comfort of your home and family. So what should you look for as you make that choice? A company that employs HVAC technicians with the following key qualities:

Strong technical and mechanical knowledge and skills

A great HVAC technician will have extensive understanding of and experience with HVAC systems and controls, testing equipment, technical data and troubleshooting procedures, as well as the mechanical skills to repair, install, assemble, disassemble and program these systems as necessary for safe, efficient operations. Look for HVAC technicians that hold licenses and certifications in their field to ensure this level of knowledge and skill.

Excellent communication and customer service skills

Good HVAC technicians must be able to interact smoothly with homeowners and building managers in order to do their jobs effectively. That means having strong listening skills as well as the ability to explain technical/mechanical information in plain language. Additionally, they must be patient in answering clients' questions and concerns, and respectful of those clients and their homes.

Strong knowledge of and compliance with safety standards

HVAC technicians work with a variety of elements that can be dangerous if not handled appropriately, including natural gas, electricity and coolants, among others, so a great HVAC technician will be well trained in and observant of safety standards in all workplace situations.

Motivated to pursue continued training on new systems, technologies and standards

Equipment, technology and standards are always changing, becoming more advanced, efficient and complex every year. A great HVAC technician knows that keeping up-to-date through continued education is essential to maintaining top performance in his or her field.

If you still have questions about what to look for in a good HVAC technician, please feel free to contact Air Assurance, we're always happy to help. Our extensively-trained, highly-skilled and NATE-certified HVAC professionals have been serving homeowners throughout the Broken Arrow area for more than 30 years.

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 technicians and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “OpenClipart-Vectors/Pixabay”

What's Affecting Your Indoor Air Quality?

Human activities such as cooking, cleaning, or building can increase or decrease the contaminants and particulates in your indoor air. However, there are other factors beyond your control that will influence the air quality inside your home. Here are some of those factors:

Accumulation of dust:

Dust is present in every home and is nearly impossible to eliminate completely. Dust consists of small fragments of dirt, fibers, and even dead skin cells. You can clean often and take other steps to reduce the presence of dust, but it will almost always be present.

Humidity:

Indoor humidity is measured by the amount of moisture in the air. Too little humidity can cause skin and eye irritation and other physical discomforts. High humidity can also be uncomfortable while increasing the chances of moisture damage to objects in the home. High moisture also makes it more likely for mold to develop.

Contaminated outdoor air:

If the amount of contaminants in the outdoor air is high, some of these contaminants will make their way into your home. These contaminants can include dust or dirt from roadways, pollen from flowers, odors from outdoor sources, and fumes from vehicles. A home with a tight envelope will keep out many of these contaminants, but some are still going to get in.

Pets:

Indoor pets can have a substantial effect on indoor air. Cats and dogs produce dander, which can be an allergen. Small pieces of pet fur are common on furniture, rugs, clothing, and other surfaces. The odor of litter boxes or pet accidents can also reduce indoor air quality.

Chemicals and fumes:

Some objects in homes, such as carpets or furniture, can emit chemical odors long after they've been purchased. If you have any types of chemicals stored indoors, such as cleaning supplies or pesticides, they can potentially leak and produce irritating odors.

Air Assurance provides Tulsa residence with expert HVAC services that maximize indoor comfort and household air quality. Contact us today for more information on how to keep your indoor air clean and free of contaminants that can affect your comfort and respiratory health.

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 indoor air quality and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “geralt/Pixabay”

Back-to-School Maintenance Tips

Now that summer is near its end, there's a good chance that your kids are all set to go with back-to-school supplies. What many homeowners forget, though, is that their HVAC equipment needs attention, too. Here are a few of our favorite maintenance tips to get done before we enter a new season:

Perform an Annual Check

If you want your HVAC equipment to last longer and run better, an annual check by a professional technician is definitely something you don't want to skip. By keeping up with a yearly maintenance schedule, your system will run more efficiently and you'll extend its overall operational lifespan.

Clean or Replace the Filter

Air filters are resilient pieces of equipment, but they don't last forever. It only takes 1-3 months, on average, for a filter to become clogged up with enough dirt and debris that it hurts the system's performance. Some filters can be cleaned and used again, while others must be replaced. No matter which type you have, consistent attention will keep your HVAC system in tip-top shape.

Maintain the Outdoor Unit

Your HVAC equipment's outdoor unit will get clogged up over the summer with things like dirt, leaves, and all sorts of other debris. Some homeowners even go out to discover a fallen bird nest! You can easily clean up the obvious stuff by hand, and then grab a hose and spray it down to get rid of anything that's left over.

Seal Holes in Your Ductwork

No matter how well you take care of your home, problems such as holes, gaps, and tears are likely to occur in your ductwork. This leads to a waste of energy as your heating or cooling system is forced to run longer to get the same results. Sealing these problem areas to keep things running smoothly.

For more expert advice on back-to-school maintenance, or if you have any other concerns related to home comfort, please don't hesitate to contact the friendly professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the HVAC needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding area for more than 30 years.

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 maintenance and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Wokandapix/Pixabay”

Natural Ways to Reduce Humidity in Your Home

If your home's air feels thick and you can smell a musty odor, you may have excess humidity in your home. If left unchecked, the excess moisture can cause mold growth, wood rot, and blistering or peeling of paint. So how can you reduce your home's humidity levels? Here are some natural solutions you can use:

Ventilate

Ventilation increases airflow and helps lower humidity levels. Install fans that duct to the outside in your bathroom and kitchen. If you already have vent fans, ensure you switch them on and leave them running longer.

Reduce Shower Time

Long showers can result in a buildup of moisture in your bathroom as well as the surrounding rooms. Taking shorter showers can help lower the moisture buildup in your home. You should also consider installing a low-flow showerhead.

Use Calcium Chloride or Kitty Litter

Placing bowls of calcium chloride or kitty litter around your home can help reduce humidity by absorbing some moisture from the air. Make sure you replace them every few weeks.

Reduce Houseplants

While a few houseplants can make your home healthier, too many of them can increase the moisture levels. Reduce the moisture these plants add to your indoor air by moving some of them outside. You can also cover the soil around the plants to prevent its moisture from escaping into your home's air.

Make Repairs

Inspect the exterior of your house for defects. Water leaks may contribute to high humidity levels. Fix any loose roof shingles and flashings and keep the gutters clear. Waterproof concrete basement walls. Seal around the areas where your walls meet the ceiling and flooring.

By taking these steps to lower humidity levels, you'll feel more comfortable at home and save money too due to reduced energy bills. To learn more about eliminating excess moisture and any other home comfort issues, please contact us at Air Assurance. We've been helping homeowners in the Broken Arrow area with their HVAC and plumbing needs since 1985.

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 reducing humidity and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “coyot/Pixabay”

Summer Sump Pump Maintenance

When you have a sump pump installed in your home's basement or crawlspace, you might mistakenly think that you're automatically protected against water intrusions. In reality, periodic sump pump maintenance is crucial if you want to keep your home safe from:

• Costly water damage. Whether you experience minor groundwater seepage or significant flooding from a summer storm, your sump pump needs to be in good working order to handle it. If your home's basement is finished, this protects the drywall, flooring, the furnishings and stored items from damage.

• Mold-related problems. Having a well-functioning sump pump that keeps the crawlspace or basement dry can also minimize mold growth and musty odors and preserve your home's indoor air quality.

• Fire hazards. When your sump pump is well-maintained and on guard against water intrusions into your basement or crawlspace, you may not realize that it also reduces the danger of electrical fires. If a flood occurs and electrical wiring situated in the space gets saturated, there a risk that it can short circuit and cause a fire.

Essential Sump Pump Maintenance

It's vital to have a functional sump pump during a power outage, so invest in a battery backup if you don't already have one. To ensure that your pump is always in working condition, maintain it semi-annually by following these steps:

• Clear any debris from the sump pit so it can't clog the pump.

• Check the condition of the power cord and for safety, make sure it's plugged into a ground fault circuit interruptor (GFCI) receptacle.

• To test the pump's functionality, fill up the pit with water and check that it starts up and empties the pit efficiently.

• Unplug the power cord and repeat the above-mentioned test to check that the backup battery is working properly.

• When the pump is running, verify that it stays upright and level, and that the drain hose stays attached.

• If your pump is unresponsive or quits working, have it repaired or replace it immediately.

To learn more about sump pump maintenance and how it can help protect your Broken Arrow home, contact us at Air Assurance.

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 sump pumps and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Westfrisco/Pixabay”