How to Choose the Right AC Repair Company

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In the sweltering summer heat, you can’t wait to get home and into a cool environment. But when you turn on your air conditioning unit, it doesn’t respond like it normally does. The house is still hot and humid. What do you do now? You may feel this is a rather small repair job that you can have a company take care of easily. However, quite often people end up spending more money than they anticipated because they chose the wrong AC repair company. Even if the repairs seem simple enough and won’t cost a lot of money, it is important that you choose the right provider from the word go. This guide will show you how to choose the right AC repair company the first time so you can save money and hassle.

How to Choose the Right AC Repair Company

Why you should use a checklist when hiring an AC repair service

If you hire an AC repair company whose employees don’t have the appropriate certifications, you may end up with an improperly installed system that could break down again in a few months. You may end up paying more than you should, too, if you go with a non-licensed contractor. In most states, contractors who work on residential properties are required to pay a licensing fee, which covers the cost of administering the exam and the administration of the licensing program. If a contractor doesn’t have to pay a licensing fee, then they likely don’t have the same level of experience and expertise as those who do have to pay. Also, be sure the company has workers’ compensation insurance coverage, as the law requires in most states.

Don’t be fooled by ads and marketing

You may think you are getting a great deal when a company advertises $19.95 for service calls. Are they really going to come out for such a low price? It’s best to avoid services that advertise for extremely low prices. First of all, it’s probably not a legitimate AC repair company. If it is, the services performed will likely be substandard and not meet code requirements.

Another thing to watch out for is marketing which is designed to scare you into doing something right now. An example of this type of marketing is the claim that your air conditioner is on its way out. This is simply not true. If your air conditioner is 10 years old and you replace it every 15 years, then it is likely not even close to dying. It’s best to ignore marketing gimmicks.

HVAC equipment certification is key

All technicians who work on your AC unit must be certified, but not all certifications are the same. For example, if the AC repair technician is certified for refrigeration work, but not for air conditioning work, you may end up with a system that doesn’t work properly. There are several certification organizations, including the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE); the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET); the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA); and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). You can ask for certification cards from your technicians, but keep in mind these cards can be forged. You can also check these organizations’ websites to see if the company has applied for certification.

Get more than one estimate

A good rule of thumb is to get three estimates if you need to replace your AC unit. If the bids are close, you can then go with the AC repair company that offers a shorter installation time. If there is a wide difference in price between the companies, you can ask why there is such a difference. You can also check online review sites and see what other customers have to say about the companies you are considering.

Ask to see the company’s license

You should always ask to see the AC repair company’s license and call your local municipality to confirm the company’s license is valid. If the company doesn’t have a license, then you should consider finding another service provider. While you can find out information about a business’s license online, it isn’t always accurate, so you shouldn’t take it as gospel.

Ask for references and check them

You can ask for references from the company, but be sure to follow up on them. If all of the references are from other businesses, you may want to ask why they don’t have any residential customers. You can also ask for a list of recent customers who had the same type of work done that you need. You can then call these customers to see if they are happy with the work and if they would use the company again.

Check the warranty and make sure it’s in writing

When you are shopping for a new system, you will probably see companies with a variety of long-term warranties. You may be tempted to go with the company that offers the longest warranty, but you need to make sure it is in writing. If the warranty is just verbal, then you may be out of luck if the company goes out of business or the owner retires and no one else can honor the warranty. If the warranty is in writing, then you can take the company to court if they don’t honor it.

Be wary of up-front payments

Some companies will ask you to pay a large amount of money upfront for a new system or to cover the cost of parts for a repair job. If the work is legitimate and you feel the company is trustworthy, you can request a down payment. However, if you are asked to pay for work before the work is complete, you should be very wary. That money may be gone for good.

Conclusion

If you wait until the last minute to find an AC repair company, you may not be able to find one that can come out quickly and do the work during the heat of the summer. It is best to start looking as early as February, so you have time to find the right company and have them do the work. It is best to hire a company that has been in business for at least five years, has a good BBB rating, and is a member of a reputable trade association. Look for a company that offers a wide range of services, including repair, replacement, and AC maintenance. We hope this AC repair checklist will help you choose the right company.

Palo Alto Plumbing Can Help

If you are looking for AC repair companies near me, you should contact Palo Alto Plumbing today. Do not wait for a scorcher to find out your system is not blowing cold enough air or is leaking money out the window. Call today!

Looking for HVAC Companies Near Me? How They Can Save You Money

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Are you tired of spending hundreds of dollars on your energy bill every month? Do you dread the summer and winter months when your energy bill spikes? If your answer is yes to either of these questions, you might want to consider getting your home’s heating, ventilating and air conditioning system checked out by an HVAC company. An HVAC system is one of the largest energy consumers in a home, and without regular maintenance, it could be throwing your money out the window without you realizing it. If you’re looking for HVAC companies near me, here are some ways that your local HVAC company can help you save money on your energy bill.

Looking for HVAC Companies Near Me? How They Can Help Save You Money

What Is HVAC Maintenance?

HVAC maintenance refers to the recommended servicing and inspections of your heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system. When this is done regularly, you’ll be able to detect problems before they become costly. This can save you money by preventing issues that might require costly repairs and replacements. Some HVAC maintenance tasks may include changing filters, installing new seals and gaskets, or repairing refrigerant leaks. Other tasks may include lubricating motors or cables and cleaning dirty coils. You’ll want to find a licensed professional for your home’s HVAC maintenance. A licensed HVAC contractor from your HVAC companies near me search will have the expertise to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently all year round.

Below are some ways HVAC companies near me can help you save money on your energy bills.

Check for air leaks

The first thing an HVAC company does is check for air leaks in your home. Air leaks can allow hot or cold air into the house and spike your energy bill. These leaks could be due to cracks, gaps, or holes in the ductwork system. In order to fix these leaks, you will have to improve the insulation around the ducts.

HVAC Maintenance Improves Efficiency

One of the simplest ways to save money on your energy bill is to search for HVAC companies near me and have your HVAC system checked for efficiency. If you’ve had your system for 10 years or more, chances are it needs a tune-up. This will ensure that the system is running efficiently, and when the temperatures start to drop, you won’t be worried about shocking your utility bill with a spike in usage.

For example, a poorly insulated duct can waste up to 50% of heating and cooling energy. Additionally, poor air quality and high humidity levels can cause drafts, which lead to a chilly house during the winter months. The best way to avoid these issues is to schedule HVAC maintenance with a professional service provider every year or two. As well as improving efficiency, HVAC maintenance will ensure that your system is running at its peak performance. Your chosen technician from your HVAC companies near me search will inspect the inside and outside of your HVAC system before making any repairs or adjustments – this includes checking for leaks, dirt buildup, corrosion, and proper airflow throughout the home. If there are any problems found during the inspection, they will be fixed or replaced before you know it!

Avoid Breakdowns

The benefits don’t stop there: scheduling annual or biennial HVAC maintenance with HVAC companies near me can also reduce the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs. By having your technician come out to check on your equipment regularly, you’ll get a heads-up when there is an issue with something major like a compressor or a blower motor – these components can lead to expensive repairs if they break down without warning!

Install efficient furnaces, air conditioners and heat pumps

You can save money on your energy bill by searching for HVAC companies near me and having your chosen HVAC company install efficient furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps. Newer models of these appliances are better at conserving energy and running more efficiently than older models. By installing an energy-efficient appliance, you can cut your energy use by 10 to 15 percent.

Other Ways to Save Money on Energy

Replace old appliances with energy-efficient ones

One of the easiest ways to save money on your energy bill is by replacing old appliances, like your refrigerator and dishwasher, with newer ones that are more energy-efficient. Most homes in the United States are still using a 1980s refrigerator that consumes at least 700 kWh of electricity per year. When you get a new fridge or dishwasher, make sure it’s Energy Star certified. These appliances have been tested and rated by an independent lab to meet specific standards for energy efficiency. You can also look into buying a water heater that is Energy Star certified, which will help reduce your electricity bill.

Insulate your home

The number one way to save money on your energy bill is to insulate your home, especially the attic, better. Insulating your home will help keep the heat in and the cold out. Doing so will allow you to use less energy for heating and cooling. By insulating your attic, basement, exterior walls, and doors, you can reduce up to an additional 10 percent of your energy usage each year.

Final Words

So there you have it. If you were searching for HVAC companies near me and found this article, we hope it answered some of your questions. HVAC companies near me can help you save money on your energy bill in many ways. The most obvious way is to replace your old appliances with newer, more efficient ones. You may also want to consider putting insulation on your home. Insulating all of the vents in your home and checking for air leaks can be a simple way to keep energy bills down. One of the last things you might want to think about is installing an energy-saving HVAC system. High gas prices make it more cost-effective to invest in an energy-efficient system. Replacing your old system with a new one keeps you from wasting money and helps the environment by lowering our nation’s carbon footprint.

Palo Alto Plumbing Can Help

If you are looking for HVAC companies near me, you should contact Palo Alto Plumbing today. Do not wait for a scorcher to find out your system is not blowing cold enough air or is leaking money out the window. Call today!

How Often Should I Do HVAC Maintenance? Tips for Homeowners

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HVAC maintenance is an important task for any homeowner.  HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It’s a term that encompasses both an air conditioner and a furnace, which are essential in any home. In fact, the HVAC system is one of the largest investments you’ll make in your home. So you need to keep it working for maximum efficiency. Regularly servicing your HVAC system will ensure that your air conditioner, furnace, and water heater are in good shape. It will also ensure that they continue to work when you need them most. Here are some ways to assure that your HVAC system is well-maintained so you can stay comfortable year-round.

Why You Should Service Your HVAC System Regularly

Below are some reasons why you should service your HVAC system regularly.

  •         Regular servicing helps identify any potential problems before they arise. You can address them before they become more severe and costly than they would be otherwise. Replacing your HVAC system is expensive, so regular maintenance is essential to protecting the investment you’ve made.
  •         Preventative maintenance will also help reduce your energy costs. A well-maintained heating and cooling system offers better efficiency and uses less energy than a poorly maintained one.
  •         The best way to enjoy a comfortable indoor living space is with an HVAC system that operates efficiently. The HVAC system provides the optimum temperature for your home. And well-maintained systems are less likely to break down during peak hours so you and your family stay comfortable.
  •         If your HVAC system is frequently serviced, it will last longer. With proper maintenance, the lifespan of your heating and cooling systems can be increased by up to four times. It’s important to have professionals help you maintain these systems because they have knowledge that you might not have. Professionals may also be able to find problems before they become more serious and costly.
  •         Service your HVAC system on a regular basis to ensure that you have the best air quality in your home. A dirty HVAC system can create bacteria, allergens, and other contaminants in your indoor air. By servicing your HVAC system on a regular basis, you can help prevent this from happening. And if you’ve never had your HVAC system serviced before, it could be time to make an appointment!
  •         We shouldn’t forget that HVAC systems have an impact on the environment. A serviced system uses less energy, which means you are using less waste and not impacting the environment as severely.

When and How Often to Schedule a Service Appointment

Depending on your HVAC system, service appointments should be scheduled every 12-18 months. But this time frame can change depending on the type of system you have.

For example, if you have a heat pump, it may need service every 6-12 months. If you have a gas furnace or condensing unit, it may need service every 18-24 months. A fuel oil furnace may need service once a year.

You should also check for signs that the system needs additional maintenance. These signs could include:

* Persistent noise coming from your HVAC system

* Frequent frosty windows in cold weather

* Unexpected fluctuations in temperature throughout your home

* A damp carpet or musty smell

If these issues persist after cleaning the filters and checking for clogs, book an appointment with a professional ASAP.

Other Important Factors in HVAC System Maintenance

The cost for HVAC repair and maintenance varies depending on the conditions and age of your system. Maintenance will also depend on the number of people living in your home. How often you use your heating and cooling equipment is also a factor

Older HVAC systems require more maintenance than newer ones because they use more energy. Older systems may also need to be replaced if they start making strange noises, shaking, or leaking.

Tips for HVAC Maintenance

  1.         Have a professional come out at least twice per year for an inspection of your air conditioner, furnace, and water heater.
  2.         Schedule an annual tune-up if you notice any problems with your air conditioner or a furnace.
  3.         If you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall, have a professional come out once per year to clear the snow from the unit. This is so it doesn’t overwork itself trying to compensate for lost heat from outside sources like sunlight or wind.

NEED AN HONEST HVAC PROFESSIONAL?

We hope this list of tips to maintain your HVAC system has been helpful. When you think about it, it’s a lot of responsibility to take care of a HVAC system on a regular basis. That’s why we have HVAC services on standby to help you with any repairs or maintenance needs. We know you have enough to worry about, so let us handle your HVAC service needs.

Do you need a professional HVAC companies near me to help with your HVAC system and perform honest, routine maintenance? You can always find help by searching for “HVAC companies near me,” but know that we are right here in Palo Alto and ready to help! HVAC maintenance is essential for many reasons. You could be breathing cleaner air, saving money, and enjoying greater peace of mind with a reputable company like Palo Alto Plumbing.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH US TODAY

If you’re from Palo Alto and other nearby areas, choose Palo Alto Plumbing, Heating and Air for HVAC companies near me. We offer a variety of routine and essential services that include 24-hour emergency HVAC calls. For fast, reliable, and honest HVAC repair and maintenance, call us at 650-405-1460 or contact us here. We look forward to hearing from you.

 

Top 7 Unethical HVAC Scams and Red Flags to Detect Them

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Recently, there has been an explosion in growth in the HVAC industry, mainly because of innovative new products and emerging trends such as home automation and smart home solutions. With this growth has come a rise in the risk of Internet fraud, scamming, identity theft, and even credit card fraud. Below are seven unethical HVAC scams to be aware of. In addition, we give you red flags to look out for and tips to avoid getting caught up in HVAC scams. If you are searching the internet for HVAC companies near me and live in the Palo Alto area, Palo Alto Plumbing offers superior HVAC services. We have the best HVAC contractors in the business. Please view our contact information at the end of this article.

 

TOP 7 UNETHICAL HVAC SCAMS

  1.     Replacing parts unnecessarily

Often a technician will tell you a part needs replacing when it only needs to be repaired. In addition, they might tell you several parts need replacing at once, but that is rarely ever the case. 

  1.     Free services or massive discounts

If a solicitor offers you free service or a massive discount, there will be a catch. They will likely steer you toward buying something you don’t need, or you will suddenly need a surprise repair. Do you remember the adage, “There is no such thing as free lunch”? It applies here, too.

  1.     Upfront cash payments

No reputable company will ask you for a payment before even starting the service. There is no reason to have this policy unless they plan to take the money and run. In addition, if they insist on cash payment only, do not give in.

  1.     Calling on behalf of other companies

Scamming companies might call and say they’re calling on behalf of a larger, reputable company, when in fact they aren’t affiliated at all. If they come to your house in a vehicle with a different company name, they will likely try and scam you.

  1.     Maintenance dishonesty

This company might come to maintenance your unit during the summer and deliberately turn off your gas valve. In winter, your heat won’t turn on. They will then come out and tell you something needs replacing when it is just a simple valve switch they caused.

  1.     Overcharging

Shady HVAC companies count on you not knowing how much parts will cost. A simple scam is overcharging as much as they can for something simple.

RED FLAGS TO LOOK OUT FOR

  •       Are the service providers highly recommended by friends and neighbors, and are they locals? If you’ve never heard of them before, that might be a red flag.
  •       Do they claim to be able to reduce your HVAC bills by up to 50%? This too-good-to-be-true scam will likely fool some people, but do not fall for it.
  •       Do they pressure you into giving them more personal information than you usually would?
  •       Are they secretive about their rates? They may want you to submit a card for payment first or sign something that binds you to pay before you find out how much the HVAC equipment will cost.
  •       Do they have a valid state license? States have licensed and bonded HVAC repair contractors, so make sure they do!
  •       Does the solicitor say they work for the utility company? A utility company will not call you individually to come to service your home unless you reach out to them first.

TIPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF

Below are several tips to protect yourself from falling prey to HVAC scams:

  1. Don’t deal with door-to-door salespeople. Whether the salesperson is part of a local HVAC sales company, always check their business license.
  1. Always verify any sales pitch or offer before agreeing to any purchase. Research the company and the product in question and check if other people have reported getting scammed after purchasing.
  1. Get additional quotes. When possible, ask the salesperson for a copy of their sales sheet. In addition, you should always ask another company or two for a second opinion, especially if they say you need one or more things replaced entirely and are facing a huge bill.
  1. Ask questions. It might seem simple, but ask for additional clarification if things are not adding up for you. Even if the questions seem simple to you, ask them for greater peace of mind.
  1. Read their material. Does the company have pamphlets, price sheets, or a website? View that material and see if it is clear to you. Is a lot of information missing? Does their website look legit and professional?
  1. Determine if the company has any recent complaints. It’s the nature of any business to have a few complaints, but if there are dozens of them, ask them how they resolved the issue. Also, look at the Better Business Bureau website to view any complaints filed against them.
  1. Check the phone number and address. Often, phone numbers and addresses given by companies are for legitimate businesses. Check to make sure these are tied to a business and not an individual, and check to be sure you can trace them at all.

NEED AN HONEST HVAC PROFESSIONAL?

We hope this list of clues and tips to spot an HVAC scam has been helpful. Do you need a professional HVAC companies near me to help with your HVAC system and perform honest, routine maintenance? You can always find help by searching for “HVAC companies near me,” but know that we are right here in Palo Alto and ready to help! HVAC maintenance is essential for many reasons, and you could be breathing cleaner air, saving money, and enjoying greater peace of mind with a reputable company like Palo Alto Plumbing.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH US TODAY

If you’re from Palo Alto and other nearby areas, choose Palo Alto Plumbing, Heating and Air for HVAC companies near me. We offer a variety of routine and essential services that include 24-hour emergency HVAC calls. For fast, reliable, and honest HVAC repair and maintenance, call us at 650-405-1460 or contact us here. We look forward to hearing from you.

Simple Steps to Becoming an HVAC Technician

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HVAC systems and appliances are a complicated type of equipment that require particular attention during maintenance. Before trying to handle any given system, ensure that you have the relevant skills and expertise. If you’re interested in a career in the HVAC industry, there are certain steps that you need to take to become certified.

How to Become an HVAC Technician

Are you interested in being an HVAC technician? Here’s what you have to do:

1. Acquire a high school diploma or GED.
A GED or Diploma is essential in equipping you with basic mathematics, science and shop-class skill that will foster success as an HVAC technician. Moreover, you may be required to have proficiency in computer skills, which will increase your efficiency in operations. Your GED IS a valid requirement of joining college and training institutions, and increases your chances of being hired for more hours; it may also provide for fringe benefits that are allowed by your employer, which may include health benefits and retirement plans.

2. Complete Technical/trade training.
To be a competent HVAC technician, you will need a certificate of training from any recognized institution, which adds the weight of your portfolio and attracts employers seeking to hire trained professionals. The training programs instill hands-on skills that are relevant for performing highly specialized work. You will also acquire practical skills in the operation of new technology equipment and learn how to maintain safety during operation of such devices, which is mandatory for efficient management of your day-to- day jobs. With a certificate of training, you have higher chances of quickly getting hired and absorbed into the job market, however, you may also find apprentice programs that offer paid training to employed individuals. These apprentice programs may run for three and five years sought after due to their compensations. Lately, there have been numerous apprentice programs budding following increased market demand, though you will still need certification.

3. Acquire a license
The conduct of HVAC operations and services may require that you have a permit. Licenses, however, is varied from state to another, with some requiring it and others not. A grant proves to be necessary for both your personal and your professional needs viewed as the hallmark of quality professional services. It also gives you authority, increases your flexibility and places you at the top of your game.

4. Get your EPA certification
This certification may only be necessary for technicians whose work may involve refrigerants. HVAC technicians with EPA certificates are highly recommended for work as they are the right people to detect and prevent possible harm that may arise from the work and apply strict measures to avoid or control imminent danger. Homeowners and HVAC experts who ignore the significance of such are prone to be subjected to monetary fines and penalties. The acquisition of an EPA certificate requires you to sit for a test after conducting a refresher course. With the current laws and regulations of the EPA being tougher in the protection of individuals from environmental hazards, getting certified is the key to success. To avoid legal implications that would end up being disastrous to your reputation leading to loss of clients, always do things the right way.

5. Start finding and bidding for projects or looking for full-time work!
Upon the successful acquisition of all the above highlighted steps, you are now ready to begin finding and bidding for projects OR applying for full-time work. However, it is recommended that you start small and advance accordingly, as this would offer you enough room for more tactical experience with time.

As your Palo Alto HVAC Experts, we’re skilled in all things HVAC and plumbing. Our team has been certified & trained in all aspects of service because we believe you deserve peace of mind for all the components of your home’s comfort & function. If you need help with your HVAC system, contact us today.