McKinney AC Repair Service Total Air and Heat gives great ideas for getting the most out of your Heating and Air Conditioning system at the lowest cost of use.

We have previously discussed ways to maintain your AC unit and when to repair. Today lets discuss what happens when you get to the final realization that your system must be replaced.

The old adage “you get what you pay for is usually always true”. Of course it is great to get various bids on your contract but always use caution on the lowest bids. There are always exceptions to the rule, but really scrutinize the lowest bid. Why is it the lowest? Can the company actually make money on that bid? We like to remind people of the “Cardboard Box Rule”. An AC unit comes in a cardboard box and it can only work as good as the company that installs the unit. You may buy the most expensive , best known unit on the market and if you hire a sub-quality company to install it you may have wasted your money.

• Ask your AC company if one of their employees will be doing the install or are they outsourcing to cheaper subcontractors.
• Make sure to get everything in writing. You’ll want the make, model and serial number on your bid or receipt. Also, never pay 100% of the install in advance, 50% is reasonable.
• Many people do not know this but your contractor must pull a city permit for the install. If there is a home related accident due to the installation and you have no permit, your insurance could deny the claim!
• Check to see that your contractor is a member of ACCA-Air Conditioning Contractors of America.  Furthermore, it is ok to ask if the companies’ technicians have been certified by accredited organizations such as N.A.T.E. N.A.T.E insures that technicians have the necessary training to do the job.
• Most importantly make sure the AC contractor is licensed with the Department of Licensing and Regulation in Austin, Texas.  This department ensures that all contractors are insured and follow guidelines.

Plano Heating Contractor Total Air and Heat suggests a guide  for  when you will need to replace your unit.

• Systems under 5 years of age: Most likely you will want to fix this unit, double check for warranties that may still exist.
• Systems over 5 years of age: If the compressor is broken and out of warranty you will want to fix the unit.
• Systems over 8 years of age: Unless the part is below $250.00 we suggest considering replacing the unit.  If it is a compressor fan that is broken please use caution, compressor fans can indicate further damage that you may not be able to see right away.

In short continue with your proper maintenance but when you know all hope is lost do the proper research on your installer.  Understand what their fees are, and check references.  If you have any questions about this article please call me at 972-881-0020.

About the author: Steve Lauten is President of the McKinney AC Repair Service Total Air & Heat Co. which is located in Plano, TX.  Steve can be reached at 972-881-0020 or by email at sales@totalair.com