A: In most cases no.  Most duct cleaning systems are ineffective at best and can severely damage ductwork at worse.  In most cases, duct cleaning will make dust problems worse. Excessive dust is generally related to leaking supply and return ducts and undersized return airs.

2.   What is “SEER”?

A: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating is a government  contrived formula that determines how quickly and how efficiently an air conditioner lowers the temperature in a specified area in a specified time frame.

3.  Should I buy based on SEER?

A: While it is nice to purchase a high SEER system, proper sizing of equipment and proper installation procedures are much more important. A properly sized and installed 13 SEER system can easily out perform an improperly sized and installed 21 SEER system. While SEER is an important value to know, it is not the most important factor in a climate like Houston, where humidity removal is paramount.

4.   Is one brand better than another?

A:  In most instances, no.  The installation procedures and the quality of the contractor are most important.  Each brand has it’s own short-comings and it’s on strong points.  Most equipment uses the same basic components, such as compressors, motors and electrical components.  Different products are more appropriate for different situations and are determined on a case-by-case basis.

5.  How many supply and returns should I have?

A:  Every house and every system is different. This is something that must be determined based on needs or design criteria.

6.  How do I know if a variable speed blower is right for me?

A: A variable speed blower is always beneficial in a humid climate. It will improve humidity control and indoor air quality significantly over a standard blower motor.

7.  What does it mean when my outside unit (condenser) has ice on it?

A: It means the system is either low on refrigerant, has low air flow, or a combination of these.

8.  What is the difference between R-22 and R-410A?

A:  Basically, R-22 is being phased out . R-410A is the refrigerant that is been chosen to replace R-22.  Each has it’s positive and negative aspects. R-22 was a very “forgiving” refrigerant as far as installation procedures are concerned. Meaning a poorly trained technician using minimal skills and knowledge could install equipment without too much detriment to the equipment longevity. R-410A is a very “unforgiving” refrigerant. It requires specific procedures during installation and service to provide efficient and long lasting service of the new equipment.

9.  Which is better – hard pipe duct work or flex duct?

A: Rigid duct work is always preferable because it has less resistance to air flow, but any duct work will work well if properly designed and installed. Unfortunately, most contractors do not take the time to design or properly install any type of duct work – especially flex.

10. What should I look for in a contractor?

A:  Licensed and insured, NATE certified technicians; but more basically, one that will take the time to ask questions, answer questions, address your concerns and offer solutions to solve your problems.

With seasonal allergies becoming commonplace across the country, don’t be caught this fall with the runny nose, itchy eyes or nasal congestion that plagued you last year. “Breathing clean air may be the best solution for allergies,” said Al Fowler, of HVAC-AL. “More than 50 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies making it especially important to take appropriate precautions inside your home.”From late August through October, at least one in five Americans will have immune system overreactions to irritants in the environment, which is why it is important to stay informed on ways to reduce the chances of being exposed to irritants both indoors and outdoors.

Follow these simple tips to reduce the amount of pollutants inside your home:

• Keep your home and car windows closed
• Vacuum and dust – wipe your hand across your ceiling fan blade to see how much dust is being distributed through the air
• Change air filters on your heating and cooling equipment often – most manufactures recommend once a month depending on dust levels
• Clean humidifiers and AC units – dirty units create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria
• Reduce the use of products like aerosol, room deodorizer, perfumes and household cleaning products

These are some precautionary measures to help you avoid allergies:

• Stay inside during peak pollen times, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Monitor local pollen counts and stay indoors as much as possible when pollen counts are high
• Stay indoors when humidity is high and on days with high wind, when dust and pollen are more likely to be in the air

If allergy symptoms are particularly troublesome, talk to your doctor to find out about treatment options available both over-the-counter and by prescription. When you do what you can to alleviate the frustration of fall allergies, you can get back out there and enjoy all that this season has to offer.

• EVALUATION
• RECOMMENDATION
• SERVICE
• INSTALLATION
• ATTIC INSULATION
• INDOOR AIR QUALITY

NATE Certified Technicians