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.

What to Look for When Hiring an HVAC Contractor

It pays to spend a little time researching the credentials and reputation of an HVAC contractor before you schedule service or repairs. In most homes, the HVAC system is the sole means of maintaining comfort day and night. Hiring a capable and reputable company might make a good deal of difference.

Licensing.

In Oklahoma, all HVAC contractors and technicians have to have a license issued by the state to practice. They must also have bonding and insurance coverage. Using someone who isn’t licensed could void your warranty and leave you vulnerable for financial or physical damages that occur at your home during a service call or installation.

Memberships.

The key to finding a solid contractor you can trust is to look for one who has NATE (North American Technician Excellence). NATE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing the capabilities and competence of HVAC technicians and contractors. They require passing a battery of rigorous tests for membership. Additionally, members have to continue their educations and retest every two years.

Reputation.

Most HVAC contractors are local, which means you can ask the contractors you’re interviewing for a list of past and current customers. You can also access the Better Business Bureau’s database online that will give you their ratings with this trusted authority on companies large and small. Air Assurance has an A+ rating in the Broken Arrow region.

Authorizations.

In order for an HVAC contractor to be an authorized dealer, the company has to exhibit high performance and competency standards. The contractor will have advanced knowledge of the equipment, since they can access all the technical information available. At their simplest, HVAC systems are complicated and when the technician has all the information at his fingertips, installing and servicing the equipment will be exact.Whenever you need to hire an HVAC contractor, look for these qualifications.

For more information, contact Air Assurance, a local HVAC company serving Broken Arrow homeowners. We have NATE certification, a top rating with the BBB, and are a premier dealer for Lennox.

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

What Affects Your Home's HVAC Costs?

If you're thinking about upgrading the HVAC equipment in your Broken Arrow home, you're probably wondering what might affect the price you'll pay for a replacement. Here's some helpful insight into the main factors that typically affect HVAC costs:

Equipment Capacity

Generally, the capacity or size of new HVAC equipment directly affects its cost, so it's vital to determine the size needed to properly heat or cool your home. To avoid purchasing oversized, more costly equipment unnecessarily, you should have an experienced HVAC contractor perform a detailed load calculation to learn the correct capacity required.

Efficiency Ratings

The equipment's energy efficiency rating is another key factor in the cost of a new HVAC system. Higher-rated equipment costs more up front, but it uses less energy so it can save you money on heating or cooling. To help you make an informed choice, ask your HVAC pro about potential energy savings versus upfront cost for all the models within your budget.

Equipment Options and System Add-Ons

Specific equipment features and system add-ons can also affect the HVAC costs you pay. Advanced options like a variable-speed air handler, two-stage compressor or ECM motor will raise the system's price tag, but they'll also reduce your operating costs. System extras like UV lamps, or an air cleaner, dehumidifier or smart thermostat will increase the overall cost as well, but the benefits they offer can outweigh the added expense.

Duct System Changes

If the current ducting design won't work well with new, more efficient equipment or the ductwork has deteriorated, there'll be an additional expense to alter or replace it. How much this adds to the total price depends on the extent of the alterations, or how much it costs to fabricate/install new ductwork.

Installation Labor Charges

Labor charges for an HVAC installation can differ dramatically, but don't base your decision on who to hire on price alone. It's wiser to consider reputation, years of experience and workmanship quality and make price a secondary consideration.

Contact us today at Air Assurance to learn more about what can affect HVAC costs in your Broken Arrow home.

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 costs and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “3dman_eu/Pixabay”

Tips for Selecting the Best HVAC Contractor for Your Home

When the time comes to hire an HVAC contractor, you want one with a high degree of professionalism. Entrusting someone who's not qualified with repairing or replacing your sophisticated, expensive HVAC system is risky at best. So how do you find an HVAC contractor with the right skills and expertise? Here are some tips to guide you through your search.

What to Look For

Talk to your friends, family and business associates and ask who they use. Go online and have a look at these contractors' websites. A professional website won't necessarily guarantee a good job, but it does suggest that a contractor is operating at a professional level. Look for the following:

• Length of time in business. This alone won't guarantee professionalism, but it can show stability and level of experience.

• Testimonials. Online testimonials can be manufactured, so be wary. Ask for referrals and follow up on them.

• Types of services and brands. You probably want a contractor who has experience installing and repairing your particular brand of HVAC system.

• Licensing and insurance. These can differ widely even from county to county, so be sure to discuss licensing and insurance issues before you sign a contract.

• Types of affiliations and certifications. An HVAC contractor may belong to a number of professional organizations, from the Better Business Bureau to the ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America), but one of the key organizations that should be on the list is NATE (North American Technician Excellence). NATE affiliation proves that the contractor's technicians are certified and capable of working at the highest level of professionalism in the industry.

• Home evaluation. Don't accept any estimates over the phone. You want a contractor who will come to your home to carefully evaluate conditions and to size your HVAC system. Expect a detailed estimate.

• Written contract. Your contract should spell out the scope of the job, time line, model numbers and projected costs. The job should not begin until the contract is signed.

If you're looking for a quality HVAC contractor to do your repair or replacement, contact Air Assurance in Broken Arrow.

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). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Jacek-Dudzinski/Shutterstock”

How to Remedy Heat Loss in Your Home

Heat loss in your home can put unnecessary strain on your heating system and cause your heating bills to skyrocket. Therefore, as you look for ways to make your home comfortable during the cooler months, don't forget these simple ways to prevent your home from losing heat.

Insulate Your Attic

Your home can lose a significant amount of heat through the attic because hot air tends to rise. Insulating the attic helps trap your home's heated air. Inspect your attic and evaluate the quality, amount and condition of its insulation. Replace the insulation if it is moldy or mildewed. Ensure the attic floor has the recommended amount of insulation. An HVAC contractor can help you evaluate the quality and quantity of your current attic insulation.

Seal Attic Air Leaks

You should also survey the attic for air leaks. Typically, air leaks occur around attic hatches, stairs, stairwells, fans, ceiling junction boxes and holes that accommodate ductwork, pipes and vents. Seal these leaks with caulk, weatherstripping or foam spray.

Caulk Ceiling Trouble Spots

Your home can lose heat through ceiling fixtures and wall-ceiling junctures. Make sure you caulk any gaps and cracks in these trouble spots.

Get Energy-Efficient Windows

Windows are major sources of heat loss. If you have single-pane windows, consider adding storm panels to reduce the amount of heat lost through them. Alternatively, replace them with energy-efficient double-pane windows.

Seal Up Window and Door Frames

Interior heat can escape your home through gaps found on your window and door frames. Check for gaps between exterior frames and your home's siding. Check the condition of the weatherstripping around all your windows and doors. Seal any cracks or gaps with caulk. Replace any damaged weatherstripping.

Seal Electrical Outlets

Heat loss can also occur through electrical outlets. Install pre-sized foam gaskets behind them to prevent that.

By preventing your house from losing heat, you'll maximize the efficiency of your heating system and save money. For more information on heat loss, contact us at Air Assurance. We 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).Credit/Copyright Attribution: “tassel78/Shutterstock”

Simple Steps to Protect Your A/C Unit From Theft

The relatively small amount of copper contained in your air conditioner's outdoor unit is an attractive target for thieves. To steal the copper in the coil, wiring and coolant lines, they won't hesitate to dismantle this costly component and leave you with spilled refrigerant, exposed electrical wires and an expensive A/C replacement. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to protect your A/C unit from theft to help avoid this costly and stressful experience:

• Put the unit inside a cage - Enclosing the unit in a locked, well-built steel cage that's securely bolted in place will make your A/C less appealing to would-be thieves who are looking for a quick and easy copper heist.

• Have an alarm installed - Have your HVAC contractor install an alarm that sets off a loud siren if tampering, voltage interruption or refrigerant leaks occur in your outdoor unit. Most alarms are designed to alert you by phone as well.

• Install lights and a camera - Add a security camera to monitor the air conditioner. Place it in a difficult-to-reach spot and place warning stickers on the unit so thieves know they're on camera. To illuminate the A/C at night, have one or more motion-activated outdoor lights installed too.

• Hide the unit from sight - Add shrubs, a hedge or a high fence around the outdoor unit to make it less conspicuous to thieves. If there's usually a lot of traffic on your street, leaving the unit out in plain sight can be an equally effective deterrent to thieves who don't want to be identified.

• Paint the coil with microdots - Brush-on microdot products carry hundreds of individual dots that are visible under magnification. Each dot contains a uniquely assigned code that's registered with a national database. When a thief sees the microdot warning sticker on your unit, they'll be inclined to move on rather than risk trying to sell traceable stolen copper.

To learn more ways to protect your A/C unit from theft, contact the HVAC experts at Air Assurance today. We've been serving Broken Arrow homeowners 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). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “GSPhotography/Shutterstock”

4 Steps to Expect During a Professional A/C Installation

When you invest in a new air conditioner, it's important to understand the crucial role a quality installation plays in equipment performance, energy efficiency and longevity. To protect your investment and ensure your comfort, make sure the contractor you hire follows these four steps during your A/C installation.

Equipment Sizing

An experienced HVAC contractor will do a detailed load calculation based on Manual J to accurately size the A/C. If this isn't done and the equipment doesn't have enough capacity, it simply can't cool your home sufficiently. If too large an A/C is installed, it will cycle on and off without adequately cooling and dehumidifying the space. Not only does this affect your comfort, it can also lead to excess moisture problems and mold growth.

Ducting Condition

Before your new equipment is installed, a knowledgeable professional performs a duct system inspection. He'll check the air balance to uncover sizing issues, repair any damaged or disconnected sections, then seal the ducts with mastic and wrap them with R-6 insulation. This is vital, because ductwork deficiencies can not only rob you of up to 30 percent of your new A/C's cooling output, they can also compromise your health and safety by allowing combustion fumes and other contaminants into your air supply.

Airflow Rate

Every manufacturer sets an acceptable range of airflow rates for their equipment. Once your A/C is in place, the installer will check whether the rate of flow across the cooling coil is within that range and make any necessary adjustments. If this isn't done, the equipment can't operate at maximum efficiency or cool your home properly.

Refrigerant Charge

A critical step in a professional A/C installation is charging the system with the amount of refrigerant recommended by the manufacturer. If your system is allowed to operate with too high or too low a refrigerant charge, you'll lose out on key benefits, like energy savings, enhanced comfort and many long years of reliable service life.

To learn more about what to expect during a professional A/C installation, contact the Broken Arrow comfort experts at Air Assurance today.

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). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Christian Delbert/Shutterstock”

Customer Service: What Should You Expect From Your HVAC Contractor?

When it comes to servicing your furnace, air conditioning, or other HVAC needs, it's important to know what to expect in terms of customer service when dealing with any HVAC contractor.

Professionalism

When you call an HVAC technician, you should expect a certain level of professionalism. You should be assured that the technician is a non-smoker, background checked, and is drug tested for both your safety and peace-of-mind. The technician should be N.A.T.E. (North American Technician Excellence) certified to prove a certain level of expertise.When he or she arrives, the technician should be prompt. The contractor should be uniformed, clean and should have a proper badge and identification. You should feel secure about letting him or her into your home.

Honesty and Reliability

Your HVAC technician should be honest and trustworthy. He or she should also use the best parts when it comes to installing or repairing your HVAC system. It doesn't help you if your technician uses substandard parts which will cause a breakdown in the future.

Diagnostic Service Calls

If your HVAC system is having problems, it's important that the technician diagnose the problem thoroughly. That means that he or she has the tools needed for the job and enough spare parts on the truck so the problem can be fixed once you give the go ahead. The technician should spend as long as required to figure out the problem, no matter how long it takes. Once the problem has been diagnosed, your technician should explain the problem thoroughly to you without gibberish so that you understand what needs to be fixed. He or she should quote you a firm price for fixing the problem. By going the extra mile, your technician is performing great customer service.

For all your HVAC needs, contact Air Assurance, your experts in heating and cooling in the Tulsa area 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).

Credit/Copyright Attribution: “iQoncept/Shutterstock”

Interviewing Your HVAC Contractor: What You Should Ask

A skilled HVAC contractor is somebody you need on your side, whether you’re installing a completely new unit, getting your current one fixed, or simply getting a regular checkup to make sure everything is running smoothly. However, knowing whom you should hire isn’t always as easy as just asking your neighbor or friend who does their work – though referrals can help. When considering hiring an HVAC contractor, make sure you ask these pertinent questions before you have any work done.

• Ask about staff size and service calls. Before you hire somebody to do HVAC work for you, you need to make sure that they have an adequate staff so they can respond to your needs quickly, especially during peak times like the coldest part of the winter and the hottest part of the summer.

• Find out about licensing information. The contractor you hire to do your HVAC work needs to be licensed in your state and area. Find out if your prospective contractor is licensed by state and national contractor’s boards like the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). Don’t be afraid to check up on licensing information before hiring somebody.

• Make sure any contractor who wants to do HVAC work for you takes the time to inspect your home and your existing system. They should also take time to explain repair and upgrade options to you before doing any work. No contractor should be unable to explain the benefits of upgrades or why repairs are necessary to keep your HVAC system running smoothly or more efficiently.

• Discuss insurance-related issues. You need to be sure that anybody doing HVAC work for you has adequate insurance in case anything goes wrong with your HVAC system or on your property. You also need to make sure you won’t be liable for any sort of injury that could occur on your property – even if the injuries are to workers.

Contact Air Assurance for more information about finding the right HVAC contractor. We can also help you with all of your residential and commercial HVAC and plumbing needs.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). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Neil Lockhart/Shutterstock”

Don't Let Those 2013 Tax Credits Get Away: Use Them on an Efficient A/C

Don't Let Those 2013 Tax Credits Get Away: Use Them on an Efficient A/C

Homeowners who install qualifying cooling systems this year can take advantage of tax credits from the federal government to help offset the cost. Those that qualify are high-efficiency central air conditioners and heat pumps. If your equipment is over 10 years old, requires frequent repairs, or uses a lot of electricity, this summer might be an advantageous time to replace it. The minimum energy efficiency for central cooling systems stands at 13 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio). In order to qualify for the tax credit whose maximum amount is $300, new equipment has to have a minimum rating from 14 to 16 SEER, and depends on whether you're installing a split or package system and whether it's an air conditioner or a heat pump.You and your HVAC contractor can discuss which system would be best for your home, along with going through the other important elements when choosing a new cooling system, particularly its size. Contractors use software called Manual J to perform a load calculation to arrive at the right tonnage for your new system.Going by the size of your existing equipment could result in a system that's too large or small for your home. Oversized systems drive up energy bills and leave humidity behind. They run in short cycles more frequently, which increases the wear on all the parts. A system that's too small won't keep you as comfortable during our hottest weather.Once you've chosen the right system for your home, a thorough ductwork inspection should be made to assess your current system, its size and integrity. The leaks should be sealed with mastic or metal tape. Choosing a shady location for the outdoor condenser also helps you get the most efficiency from your new system. The hot refrigerant from your home cools faster if the condenser is out of the sun and has plenty of clearance on all sides.If you'd like more information about the 2013 tax credit and choosing a new system, contact Air Assurance. We've provided top-notch HVAC services for the Broken Arrow area for nearly 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).  Image courtesy of Shutterstock

HVAC Contractor Hire Seem Daunting? It Needn't Be

HVAC Contractor Hire Seem Daunting? It Needn't Be

Selecting the right HVAC contractor to install your new air conditioner or furnace is just as important as the equipment you choose. Proper installation is required for optimal safety, efficiency and reliability. Don’t be daunted by the task of hiring the right HVAC contractor. Instead, use this guide to aid you in your selection.

• Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations: Their experience with a reputable contractor is a great place to start.

• Call the contractor: Pay attention to how you’re treated on the phone. Reliable contractors are professional, prompt and courteous. Look for these features as they make their first impression.

• Look for professional affiliations: North American Trade Excellence (NATE) is an organization that trains and certifies HVAC technicians. Trust the job to a NATE-certified tech for the best experience possible.

• Seek estimates: This provides you with a price comparison. However, don’t give your business to a company that attempts to provide an estimate over the phone, since a load calculation must be performed before equipment size, and therefore cost, can be determined. In addition, think twice before accepting the lowest bid. Remember, you get what you pay for.

• Ask about sizing techniques: With the cost estimate in hand, ask the HVAC contractor what sizing method they used to produce this estimate. If the contractor’s response is that they used the square footage alone to determine equipment size, wave them out the door. This rule of thumb is not accurate enough to give you the best results. Look for a contractor who uses formal sizing techniques found in Manual J.

• Get everything in writing: A trustworthy HVAC contractor will provide a written proposal with details about the job at hand, such as the work to be done, labor costs and overall project price. The contractor will insist you sign a contract before work begins and ensures all changes are added and initialed as needed.

Please contact Air Assurance Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to work with a qualified HVAC contractor who can meet or exceed your expectations in every way. We have proudly served the Broken Arrow community 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).  Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Getting-Away Plans? Plan to Safeguard Your Home Too

Getting-Away Plans? Plan to Safeguard Your Home Too

When putting together the list of things to do before you head off for a vacation, make sure that the getting-away plans include your cooling system and other major appliances. These tips can help you keep your home safe while you're away, along with discouraging would-be intruders.Cooling systemLeaving your cooling system on while you're away will give the impression that someone is at home because the outdoor condenser makes noise when it runs. Keeping the system on is critical if you have plants indoors or plan to leave pets behind. Cleaning or changing the air filter for the air handler before you leave will help the system run more efficiently and avoid any problems that could arise from the reduced airflow a dirty filter creates.Have your cooling system professionally serviced before you go. The HVAC expert will clean and adjust the components and spot small issues that could become problems during your absence. He or she will measure the refrigerant, lubricate the parts and clean the electrical connections to improve efficiency. It's also a good idea to give the person watching your home the name and number of the HVAC contractor in the event something happens.Other home appliances

• As you make your getting-away plans, don't forget to put the garage door opener on the must-do list. Unplug it just before you leave and lock the door between your home and the garage.

• Turn the water heater down or off, depending on how long you'll be away.

• If you don't turn the water valve to your home off, turn off the water to your clothes washer.

• Unplug your smaller appliances like the microwave, coffee maker, toaster, hair dryers, computers and televisions. Not only does it cut energy use, it also keeps them safer during thunderstorms.

• Check the smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries.

• Put a few lights on timers along with a radio to make noise indoors occasionally.

For more information about getting-away plans and your cooling system, contact Air Assurance. We've provided top-notch HVAC services for 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).  Image courtesy of Shutterstock

What ACCA Membership Should Mean to You When Hiring an HVAC Contractor

What ACCA Membership Should Mean to You When Hiring an HVAC Contractor

When hiring an HVAC contractor for upgrades, service or repair, it’s important to investigate references for completed work and professional affiliations, and seek out contractors with special recognition from industry organizations, manufacturers and uninvested third parties. One of the specific affiliations you should place as a prerequisite for your contractor is ACCA membership.What is ACCA?ACCA is an acronym for Air Conditioning Contractors of America, and it is a non-profit entity serving the best interests of homeowners and businesses by working closely with HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) companies to implement and promote industry standards for best practices, energy efficiency and methodologies for installations, repairs and service.ACCA membershipWhen you hire an HVAC contractor with ACCA membership, you’re assured of the following criteria and benefits:

• ACCA-affiliated contractors stay apprised of the most recent technological advances within the industry, which helps homeowners select systems most suited for their needs and budget.

• Your contractor employs professional technicians that are properly trained to provide exceptional service, seeking the best methods to perform their duties with the goal of 100-percent customer satisfaction.

• Your contractor uses ACCA methodologies for performing heat gain/loss calculations (Manual J) to properly size heating and cooling equipment to each individual home and situation. For duct retrofits or new installations, ACCA’s Manual D is followed to the letter for optimal results for energy efficiency and home comfort.

• ACCA-affiliated contractors know and comply with state and local codes, and are professional companies which carry all required licenses and insurance for your protection.

Above and beyondHVAC contractors with ACCA membership are actively involved in ongoing education for their technicians. They frequently seek out top talent and motivated professionals, and are often required to carry and maintain other professional affiliations and certifications, such as NATE (North American Technician Excellence).Also, request references of completed projects from your list of prospective contractors, and make sure to check each contractor's standing with the Better Business Bureau.At Air Assurance, we're committed to providing our customers the very best service, repair and installation available in the greater Tulsa area, and promote the standards, ethics and methodologies which ACCA membership represents. Call us today for your HVAC needs.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).  Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Broken Arrow Homeowners In Oklahoma Can Avoid Common Air-Conditioner Problems Using These Tips

It’s not uncommon for homeowners to panic when their air conditioner seems to be malfunctioning, especially in the dead heat of a Tulsa, OKlahoma summer. Luckily, many common issues are easily addressed, with most being the direct result of simple, albeit unintentional, neglect.Perhaps the most common issue is a lack of cooling. Often, the cause of this problem is as simple as an improperly programmed thermostat or a thrown circuit breaker.

• Check the thermostat for desired temperature settings and ensure that the cooling system is actually turned on. If everything is as it should be, the next option is to try resetting the thermostat. If this does not correct the issue, a professional assessment is recommended.

• If the culprit is a thrown circuit breaker, resetting the breaker should correct the problem. Of course, if this is a common occurrence, there is likely an underlying electrical issue that needs to be addressed by a professional.

If lack of airflow is the issue:

• Dirty filters can restrict airflow and put a strain on your system in terms of efficiency. If filter replacement doesn’t seem to correct the problem, consult a trained technician.

• If you suspect a frozen indoor coil, try adjusting the thermostat for a few hours to unfreeze the system. If this doesn’t work, contact your HVAC contractor.

Another common complaint is spiking energy costs. This can be the result of several factors, including:

• New appliances

• Extreme summer heat

• Extreme thermostat settings

• Local utility rate increases

If your energy increases can’t be explained away logically, you may be the victim of improper system cycling or some other system malfunction. Of course, the best way to ensure that your system is running properly when you need it most is to maintain a routine preventive maintenance schedule. This allows your technician to evaluate and adjust every aspect of your cooling system, including:

• Proper system cycling

• Thermostat accuracy

• Electrical safety

• Air filter maintenance

• Cleanliness and efficiency of indoor and outdoor coils

• Condensate drains

Last but not least, during extreme temperatures, your system may not be able to keep the temperature as low as it does normally.  This can be due  to several factors:1. Your system may not be sized properly for your comfort.  A professional is needed to do a load calculation on the house to determine the correct size. Maybe your system cooled better in previous years?  Did something change like the loss of a large shade tree or did you replace wood shingles with asphault shingles?  Has your ductwork or insulation been disturbed by remodeling or other services?  Is the system clean?2. Your attic may have inadequate attic ventilation.  With extreme temps comes extreme attic temperatures.  And if your attic can't properly remove the extreme heat, this puts excess heat gain on your home's interior.3. With extreme temperatures come extreme heat on your duct system.  If your ducts are not properly insulated, this can cause your air to "lose it's cool", therefore making your unit run longer and less efficient.4.  What is the level of attic insulation in your home?  If this is not at least 12" you are putting extreme pressure on your system to cool at levels it was probably not designed for.If you’ve been experiencing problems with your air conditioner, don’t wait until the entire system shuts down. Call the trained technicians of Air Assurance today for an expert consultation.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here.Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.

Hiring An HVAC Contractor? Look For NATE Certification

Are you looking for an HVAC contractor? Do you know what an HVAC contractor does? HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Sometimes you will see it listed at HVAC/R -- this adds "refrigeration" to the list of systems the contractor can install or repair.When you have someone working on your HVAC system, you want someone with experience and training -- in other words, someone who knows what they are doing. The best way to make sure that your HVAC contractor fits this description is to hire someone who has NATE certification.NATE actually stands for North American Technician Excellence, a non-profit program founded in 1997. NATE is the only training and testing program supported by the entire HVAC industry. It was developed to establish a standard of knowledge, proficiency and professionalism in order to build customer trust. A contractor with NATE certification has proven that they know the HVAC business and will provide the best service possible.NATE is supported by the HVAC industry, but do other people value the NATE certification designation?  Yes.

• Contractors prefer NATE-certified technicians because they tend to be more productive than non-certified technicians; they have proven that they have superior knowledge; and they will get the job done right the first time.

• Local utility companies often require that their technicians obtain NATE certification. This helps keep their equipment running at peak capacity.

• HVAC equipment manufacturers prefer technicians with NATE certification in order to ensure proper installation, which reduces warranty returns and repair issues.

• And consumers prefer NATE certification because it gives them the confidence that their contractor knows the equipment and proper installation.

Want another reason to demand that your contractor have a NATE certification? The HVAC industry is constantly changing. There are always new restrictions, new standards, new requirements and new equipment that the contractor must know, so NATE certification must be renewed every five years.Air Assurance in Broken Arrow, OK, was the first HVAC company in the United States to have all of its technicians NATE-certified. Our knowledgeable and helpful staff will be happy to answer your HVAC questions.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here. Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.

Use These Tips To Find An HVAC Contractor

When hiring an HVAC contractor, there are a number of choices in the Tulsa, Broken Arrow region. There are a few things you should know and look for before making your decision.Know Your NeedsBefore you contact an HVAC contractor, have some idea of your needs.  Take note of the model you are currently using for your heating and cooling system and its maintenance history.  If it is not properly cooling certain rooms, be sure to mention these specific problems when you call the contractors.Check CredentialsBe sure any contractor you may hire is licensed and insured in Oklahoma.  Go ahead and investigate how much they are insured as well.  Requirements in Oklahoma for insurance are low, and may not secure you in case of a problem.Home EvaluationsThis is an essential part of an HVAC contractor’s job and they should spend a significant amount of time inspecting your current system and your home to make sure all of your needs are being met.  And they are not there to just check your system.  They should be looking at your insulation and windows to make sure your heating and cooling system is running as efficiently as possible without any air leaks that could cause your energy bill to spike.  Anyone can replace a "box", but if they are looking at the whole home's comfort system, you know they have your best interest in mind.ReferralsMany of your neighbors and friends have used HVAC contractors before, so it would be smart to get some recommendations from them.  They will also be sure to tell you who to stay away from if they have had some negative experiences in the past.  Ask for testimonials.You should also get a written price and description of services signed by both parties before work begins.  This will make sure you are protected by specifying various costs.  Understand the warranties of not only the equipment or repaired parts, but also about the company warranties as well including labor.If you have any other questions, contact Air Assurance, and we will be glad to share our expert advice.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here. Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.