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HVAC Technician: Behind the Scenes of the “Coolest” Job in Texas
When it comes to heating and cooling issues in a home or business, the first instinct is to call an HVAC technician. Typically, people do not think about their heating and cooling systems. Still, when the air conditioning stops running during a mid-summer day, or the heat turns down in the middle of a snowstorm, the average homeowner does not know how to repair the damage themselves. Working as an HVAC technician is a career that requires hard work, dedication, and a desire to serve others. It’s a gratifying job with great benefits.
What is an HVAC Technician, and What Do They Do?
HVAC, short for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, is the overarching term for a technician trained to install, replace, and repair HVAC systems. Unlike a general contractor or maintenance technician, the HVAC technician specializes in a specific part of the maintenance world.
As a technician develops in their career, they can become even more specialized in a specific area of HVAC maintenance. For example, an individual can focus on air conditioning and heating repairs rather than installations. Concentrating on developing particular skills allows somebody to become an “expert” technician in that area. However, staying a generalist is helpful, too, as the technician can go into any field to complete work with ease.
HVAC technicians can work in a few different areas, including construction sites, private companies, or freelance. They oversee installations, provide technical support, and stay on top of any new HVAC codes implemented in homes/businesses.
To be considered a strong expert in the field, there are a few essential skills that all HVAC technicians must possess. During the process of becoming a technician, there is a lot of mechanical and technical language learned. When it comes to working with clients, a strong HVAC technician can take the HVAC industry’s complex language and reduce it to a level that the standard homeowner/business owner will understand. The skill of communication is harder than it sounds but is developed over time.
HVAC technicians must also be highly reliable individuals as work can call at any hour of any day. Strong dedication to the job and serving customers is a must.
Why Become an HVAC Technician
The best part about working as an HVAC technician is that the field is always growing and in constant demand. As long as buildings need heating and air conditioning, there will be a need for HVAC technicians. With the uncertainties of so many career paths, it is a field that can stay strong even during the most challenging economic times.
Within the HVAC technician role, there are many diverse positions that an individual can hold. A career in HVAC does not mean only installing air conditioning units. As a new technician defines their job, they can move into becoming and HVAC manager, installer, and even an engineer.
The skills learned during both practical training and on the job experience are so valuable for anybody. HVAC technicians are tradespeople who are always on demand. This is a chosen career path that truly serves the greater good of the community.
What about the Drawbacks?
No job is perfect, and it’s essential to consider what some of the negatives to being an HVAC technician may be. Overall, going into any maintenance field is challenging since it requires a level of physical work. HVAC technicians are on their feet all day, every week. You’ll have to get a good pair of shoes!
Being an HVAC technician is a job that somebody cannot master in a classroom. It takes time to learn and understand the intricacies of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. When a technician begins, they will have a lot to learn from their first day onwards. It may not be easy for some people, because it’s natural to want to be as knowledgeable as possible. The understanding comes in time.
Path Towards Becoming an HVAC Technician
There are a few ways to become an HVAC technician; it’s not a cookie-cutter job. The minimum requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent certification. An individual can choose between on-the-job training, participating in an apprenticeship, or enrol in an accredited HVAC program.
There are a few types of certification, including EPA Type I-III Certifications, Universal EPA Certificate, and North American Technician Excellence (NATE). While certifications may be helpful throughout the career and look attractive to potential employers, they are not required to have. The best way to learn is to work the job, gain technical experience, and decide the best path forward.
Benefits of Working with an Expert HVAC Technician
Working with an expert HVAC technician means that there is a guarantee that the job is done right the first time. Aside from just getting the job done, an HVAC technician will do more than install or repair a unit. They are trained to understand the entire HVAC system and provide holistic cleaning and part maintenance. This helps in more than heating and cooling. A trained HVAC technician will help improve air quality, energy efficiency, and insight into a unit’s lifespan, helping a client save money and energy.
HVAC Technicians Sound Great
The HVAC system is more complicated than the average person understands. It takes a highly-skilled, highly trained HVAC technician to repair and improve home/business systems. HVAC technicians are an integral part of our communities and society. This field is high with integrity and professionalism, helping with air conditioning repairs, heating and cooling concerns, air quality control, installations, and maintenance.
If you have any questions or are interested in learning more about HVAC, contact Classic Heat and Air in Plano, Texas at 214-310-2665. They can help with any of your needs.
AC Troubleshooting: “Why Is My Central AC Not Cooling?”
If the air conditioning unit in your home is making noises, the AC not cooling the home, or energy bills are higher than normal, it may be time to assess your HVAC unit. Air Conditioning may stop working for one of a wide variety of reasons. Luckily there are options for AC repair Frisco TX.
While everybody’s first instinct may be to call for help, there are a few troubleshooting steps that a homeowner can take and potentially solve the problem themselves. Classic Heating and Air in Frisco, Texas can be called at 214-310-2665 to provide guidance, but it is in the best interest of an individual to learn about their systems and walk through a few basic steps of troubleshooting.
Problems You Can Solve
When was the last time you looked at your HVAC unit or adjusted the systems outside of turning the air conditioner off and on? It is important to learn about your home’s system to save time, money, and energy in the long run. Understand the helpful tricks for at-home AC repair Frisco TX.
Thermostat Settings
The first step anybody should take when they notice that their air conditioner unit is not cooling their home or working properly is to go and check the thermostat itself. Is the thermostat switched to “on” and not “off”? Is it set to “cool” rather than “heat”? Was the temperature adjusted to be higher than normal?
It’s very possible that something on the thermostat was changed and flipping it back to the original settings will solve most problems. Make sure your thermostat is set to AUTO or COOL, sit back, and feel the cool air.
Dirty Air Filter
Check out the air filter inside of your unit and see if there is dust that needs to be cleared off. If your unit is struggling to go lower in temperature, this could be the problem. The filter strains particles from the air to ensure good air quality but when it fills up, less air can get through, making your home warmer.
Replace your air filter every three months, or sooner if you notice a lot of dust and dirt. You can get an air filter at most hardware stores or online. While this is an option, you should also schedule regular tune-ups and maintenance. An ounce of prevention is the best medicine! Call Classic Heat and Air at 214-310-2665 to schedule your regular tune-ups and inspections at fair prices. Classic will come out and make sure that your home is well taken care of.
Outside Unit Needs Maintenance
It’s important to step outside and assess the outside unit for any debris that may pile up. It’s easy for dirt, leaves, grass, etc., to block the system which stops the unit from releasing heat. If there is a blockage, the inside unit will struggle to cool down your home. Grab a brush and hose and get cleaning!
Unit Size
The size of your ac unit is less common of a problem and more of a proactive measure to consider when buying a home. Sometimes, people will get a unit that is too small for the space that it needs to cool and therefore, cannot work properly. Consulting with Classic Heat and Air technicians can help you understand what size is the best size for your home/space.
When To Call For Help
Most issues do need to be addressed by a professional. Contact 
by calling 214-310-2665 for 24/7 support and help. If the troubleshooting methods above didn’t work for you, consider one of the problems below. There are many options for AC repair Frisco TX.
Broken Fan / Motor
Simply put, your unit may be broken. If there is a broken fan or motor, the outside unit will not be able to push heat out nor will the indoor unit cool a space down. A technician can come out and replace the hardware in no time.
Refrigerant Leaks
The coolant or refrigerant is the liquid that circulates through the evaporator coils and cools the air that flows through it.
There are a few signs that may indicate a leak:
- Ice buildup on the refrigerant line and the outside unit
- Bubbling or hissing noise
- AC not cooling home, even on a cooler evening
Call us at 214-310-2665 for help immediately. Unfortunately, this is a larger project that can become very costly if not caught early.
Broken or Damaged Ducts
The ducts carry the clean, cold air into your home. If there is a tear or damage on one of the ducts, the air escapes and does not cool down your home. Ducts can become damaged over time due to construction issues, rodents infestations, or just old age.
Make sure you are also getting the ducts inspected if a technician comes to your home.
Faulty Compressor
The compressor is the heart and soul of the ac unit and if this goes down, the system is going down. A technician will be able to locate and assess if this is the issue.
Lifespan of Unit Problems
Like everything, your HVAC system may be old and worn out due to time. If you live in an older home, this may be the case and cause for the ac not cooling your home. With the help of regular maintenance and check-ups, you can be proactive and not let age become a problem.
When in Doubt
If you or your family are ever in doubt about what to do with your HVAC system and air conditioning problems, just call Classic Heating and Air in Frisco, Texas. We are the best for AC repair Frisco TX. Our NATE certified technicians are available to help, 24/7 and are above competitors. Because putting customers first is a core value for Classic, we will work with you to make sure your home is serviced appropriately.
Before performing any work, we consult with you, provide an estimate, and then take payment after the agreed-upon work is completed. Give us a call at 214-310-2665.
Why Fall is a Great Time to Replace your Heating and Air System
With the persistent heat of North Texas, it may seem like there is never a time you would want to be without air conditioning. However, as the “miles” tick away on your HVAC system, residents in north Texas cities could be using excessive amounts of electricity to keep their house cool…that costs money!
One of the best times for a consumer to switch out an old HVAC system for a newer and more efficient one is autumn. Finding an HVAC service provider that satisfies the expectations you have for your home, your family, and your wallet can take time. Taking that initial time to research and consult with true professionals helps to put you at ease and gives you the confidence needed to make a good decision.
There are four reasons why you should think of upgrading your HVAC system this fall:
1. You have time to think. Replacing an air conditioning unit in the dead of summer can bring a sense of urgency into your decision-making. By waiting until the fall for system replacements, you can take time to research consumer reports, examine contractors’ online reviews and reputation, and visit with different service companies to provide you with peace of mind.
2. You have more options. Because the peak demand season is over, you can compare a wide variety of air conditioning units instead of choosing a system that is quickest to install or readily available at the time. Some of the more complex and more efficient equipment requires additional inputs such as changing thermostat wire, line-sets and duct modifications that simply aren’t cost effective during the busiest time of year. After the summer, contractors can provide these changes at much more reasonable prices as their opportunity cost has subsided. This time of year also brings off-season sales and promotions that make higher end products much more affordable.
3. More comfortable “down time.” Changing out an HVAC system can take up to a day depending on the needs of your new system and the challenges unique to the design of your home. During the time the equipment is being changed out, your home will not have any climate control which can be rather uncomfortable in Texas’ summer heat. Replacing that same system in the cooler temperatures of fall will make for an overall more comfortable experience.
4. You can save money. The fact of the matter is labor rates are higher when temperatures are the hottest…period. Installations simply take longer in extreme heat due to the need for more frequent breaks and the inability to stay in attics for long periods of time. The longer install times come at a cost…higher labor rate. If you plan ahead and are proactive in replacing HVAC systems during autumn, you can avoid paying the consequences brought by high temperatures.
We all are accustomed to live in comfortable homes with temperatures that keep us cool and happy. As the scorching summer days draw to an end, start thinking about the condition of your HVAC system and develop a plan for addressing any areas of need. If you need professional help understanding the current condition of your HVAC system or in purchasing the perfect HVAC system for your McKinney home, let Classic Heating & Air help! For more information, visit our website at https://www.classicheatandair.com/.
Classic Heating and Air | HVAC System Plano | 214-310-2665
AC Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Cooling System Working Well Throughout Summer
The summer months bring with them sunshine, warmer temperatures and thoughts of relaxation indoors away from the heat. Our homes’ air conditioning systems make it possible to enjoy the summer months without the discomfort of extreme temperatures. Proper care of your air conditioning system is vital in keeping your home cool and comfortable. The following AC maintenance tips will help you ensure proper operation of your HVAC system throughout the hot months of summer.
Proper air conditioning maintenance:
- Schedule a system inspection by a reliable service professional at the beginning of the season.
Your service technician will change your filter and check to make sure that all of the system components are clean and operating properly. An air conditioner that is working outside of the manufacturer’s specifications can cost you money in utility bills and potentially lead to costly repair work.
- Make sure equipment has adequate clearance from obstructions and landscaping.
Your AC condensing unit needs enough space around it for the air to circulate freely. Verify that there is a minimum of one foot of open space around all sides of the unit. You should also maintain at least five feet of clearance above the unit, so if necessary, cut back any branches or vegetation that may be obstructing air flow to the condenser.
- Reduce heat sources inside your home
The sunshine that comes with summer months can quickly heat a room as it passes through clear windows. Be sure to close curtains, blinds or drapes to reduce air temperatures inside your home. Be particularly mindful of any rooms with windows that face the west or south. These windows will get the most sunshine throughout the day.
- Be sensible about the expectations you have for your air conditioning system
Setting the temperature in your home to a temperature that is excessively cool can not only make your home uncomfortable, but it will also lead to wasted energy and high utility costs. Turn the thermostat on your HVAC system to a level between 73 and 78 degrees during the daylight hours. By raising the temperature during warmer months, you can reduce your monthly utility bills by up to ten percent.
- Use ceiling fans to circulate the air
Ceiling fans may not reduce air temperatures, but they will keep it circulating. The breeze created by simply moving the air can make a warm room seem more comfortable.
- Lower the humidity levels in your home
Use a dehumidifier to reduce the amount of humidity inside your house. Rooms with lower humidity levels can be cooled more effectively. Speak with a professional about the size and type of dehumidifier to fit your situation.
For more information on these AC maintenance tips contact the experts at Classic Heating and Air. Call 214-310-2665 to speak with a friendly representative today!
Classic Heating & Air | AC Energy Use | 214-310-2665
AC Maintenance Tips: Seven Sure Signs Your Unit Needs a Tune Up
Regular AC maintenance is essential to keeping your system running smoothly and avoiding expensive repairs when something goes wrong. Classic Heating and Air loves sharing AC maintenance tips with our valued customers to ensure that their units stay in tip-top shape for years to come. Scheduling maintenance checks and tune-ups with Classic is simple, cost efficient and gives you peace of mind regarding your air conditioner. Do you remember the last time your AC had a tune-up? Check out our tips for determining when your unit is due for a visit.
- Your Energy Bill Goes Up. Of course, you will have a higher bill in July and August than you did in February or March. However, an electric bill that is significantly higher than usual is a big red flag. When your AC is not functioning at peak efficiency, it uses extra energy to cool (or attempt to cool) your home or office.
- Your System Runs Constantly But Only Blows Warm Air. If you have the AC set to “auto,” you never hear it shut off, and you still find yourself sweating, it’s probably time to schedule a maintenance visit. More often than not, your system will continue running in attempts to lower the temperature, even when it can’t put out cold air.
- Your AC Vents Put Out Weak Airflows. If the air coming out of your AC is cool, but the flow seems weak and ineffective, it’s time to consider a tune-up or inspection. Poor airflow is usually a sign of a leaky duct or clogged filters, both of which a simple, inexpensive repair can remedy.
- Your Thermostat Readings Change Dramatically From Room-to-Room. Temperature fluctuations between rooms can mean many different things. Sun light, insulation, or air-tight windows can all be to blame, but an annual AC tune-up will help you identify any potentially serious causes of this change in temperature.
- You Hear “Unusual” Sounds Coming From Your AC Unit. After owning a cooling system for years, you’re probably familiar with the sounds it makes on a regular basis. If you hear any strange or surprising sounds from your AC, schedule a tune-up as soon as possible to identify the issue.
- You Notice Mold-Inducing Moisture or Odors. A strange musty odor is often due to a leaking, blocked or broken drain tube on your outdoor compressor. A tune-up can help you identify and solve this issue before it becomes an expensive repair.
- You Haven’t had a Tune-Up in Over a Year. AC maintenance is critical to keep your system running efficiently and save you money in the long term. If your AC hasn’t had a tune-up in more than a year, contact your air conditioning company and schedule one today!
At Classic Heating and Air, we are committed to providing our clients with quality service at a competitive price point. If you have any questions regarding AC maintenance tips or services we offer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are available by phone 214-310-2665 or online here: https://www.classicheatandair.com/.
Classic Heating and Air | AC Maintenance Tips | 214-310-2665
What to Expect When You Call the AC Pros at Classic Heating & Air
Regular service appointments with heating and AC pros are important to ensuring that your heating and cooling system is working at optimal levels. Dust and debris can reduce its efficiency, and worn or damaged parts can cause problems with the entire system. By scheduling regular HVAC service appointments, you can increase the lifespan of your system by almost 50% and reduce efficiency losses by up to 15%. That means fewer headaches and more money in your pocket.
Furnace Maintenance
Before the season changes to colder temperatures, it’s a good idea to schedule a maintenance check of your heating system. Your service professional will inspect your furnace or boiler depending on your heat source. During the visit your service technician will:
- Inspect and replace your air filters
- Inspect the exterior components
- Inspect the ventilation system
- Inspect the interior parts including the ignition, blower, motor and switches
- Measure the power consumption
- Check, clean and calibrate the thermostat
- Turn the furnace on and off
- Monitor the functioning levels of the furnace
- Test for carbon monoxide leaks
- Ensure that ventilation and pipes are clean
If you have a boiler, your technician will check the controls, pump, safety, and low water cutoff.
Air Conditioner Maintenance
When the air gets warm, your service professional will perform an extensive examination of your air conditioning system to ensure that is working properly and will keep your family comfortable throughout the summer. During the appointment your technician will:
- Check the interior and exterior components including all belts and motors
- Check coolant levels
- Replace coolant if necessary
- Check circuits, drain line, safety controls, condensate pump, valves and caps
- Inspect and if necessary, replace electrical parts
- Check and replace the filter
- Inspect, clean and calibrate the thermostat
You can increase the lifespan of your HVAC system and reduce your utility costs by scheduling a regular maintenance appointment with an AC pro. To learn more about taking good care of your HVAC system, contact the service experts at Classic Heating & Air.
Classic Heating & Air provides comprehensive heating and cooling service. As a family owned and operated business, they are committed to meeting any HVAC needs you might have. Their service professionals have the expertise and experience you solve your heating and cooling problems.
At Classic Heating & Air, your comfort is their first concern. Whether you need to schedule an appointment for regular maintenance, repair work or the installation of a new appliance, they are ready to help.
They guarantee their service within two hours, or you won’t pay. Their friendly customer service representatives are available by phone 24 hours a day. Offering an extensive inventory of HVAC services and products, they want to ensure that your home is as comfortable as possible. Call Classic Heating & Air at 214-310-2665 today!
Classic Heating & Air | AC Pros McKinney | 214-310-2665