10 Red Flags That Are Common From Unreliable HVAC Companies
October 19th, 2021The last thing anyone wants is to be swindled by someone they trust. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the warning signs of unreliable HVAC services. HVAC maintenance should provide for your needs, not create more or completely ignore them.
When choosing an HVAC repair service, you should know what you’re getting yourself into and who will be performing the necessary repairs. That’s why we’ve provided a list of ten red flags that are common in unreliable HVAC companies. Familiarizing yourself with these warning signs will help you distinguish who’s here to help and who’s possibly attempting to take advantage of you.
1. No License
The HVAC company you choose must hold the proper licensing for the trade. Licensing binds a company to the regulations legislated by local authorities. In the U.S., anyone can register a company by paying around $100 and filing a single form. Ensuring that your HVAC service is appropriately licensed not only means that the company is legitimate, but also means that the technicians have the proper training to work on gas-powered equipment.
2. No Insurance
HVAC services that aren’t properly insured put you at risk. Non-insured contractors and HVAC companies also indicate a lack of consideration and care for the general safety of the customer. Most importantly, if one of these companies is uninsured, you’ll be responsible for paying out for any injuries or damage to your property.
3. No Work Permit
Obtaining a work permit for HVAC maintenance can only be accomplished by licensed contractors and services. If you’re asked to get the work permit by your HVAC service, then your hired contractor may not be licensed.
4. Lack of References
Even the youngest companies establish themselves by carrying a list of referrals to give potential customers. An HVAC company or contractor that lacks referrals may be a scam. A legitimate company will be able to provide customer references and testimonials and offer guarantees in the case of unsatisfactory work.
5. Bad Reviews
Reviews are an invaluable resource for potential customers of any company. Reviews on the internet will help you decide whether or not to hire an HVAC company. While some companies have no reviews, there is even more incentive to research that company before hiring them. And if you see bad reviews, then buyer beware.
6. One-Person Company
A one-person company may not be able to provide adequate services. Certain types of repairs require more than one licensed technician, so a one-person show likely won’t perform these tasks. In addition, one-person companies can’t guarantee around-the-clock service for their clients, which can put you in a pickle if you ever find yourself in an emergency.
7. No Uniform
Uniforms represent the fact that an HVAC company has invested in a professional appearance. This indicates their dedication to the service and shows that they have legitimate expertise and experience. A contractor or service without a uniform can be a serious red flag.
8. No Website
Online presence is paramount for legitimate businesses that want to indicate that their service is professional. Websites also normally list certifications, license numbers, merits, reviews, and the services offered. Beware of a company without a website.
9. No Social Media
Having a social media presence is very important for any small business. It provides an opportunity to show off your work and helps build your brand and grow your customer base. A lack of a social media presence can be a warning sign that the business may not be legitimate or could even be in financial trouble.
10. Advanced Payment or Cash
If you’re asked to make a hefty down payment or pay for all services before they’re even rendered, then it’s wise to tread carefully. It’s all too easy for illegitimate services to scam you or not feel obligated to do good work. The best HVAC companies will typically offer a free estimate for their services, then let you decide through with the service.
Are You Looking for a Reputable HVAC Service?
Island Comfort shows our certification and licensing information directly on our website. Our expert technicians have years of experience with HVAC maintenance, and our reviews speak for themselves.
Whether you need standard maintenance, repairs, or would like to check out our website, you can count on us to lend you a helping hand! Contact us today!
Clogged AC Drain: 4 Signs That You Need To Call A Professional
August 25th, 2021Are you dealing with a clogged AC drain? If your air conditioner isn’t operating at maximum efficiency or perhaps not working at all, a clogged AC drain line could be the culprit. This can be the key factor in why your air conditioner isn’t operating at maximum efficiency or, even worse, not operating at all.
It is best to let technicians, who provide expert AC services in your area, deal with a clogged AC drain. It’s imperative to know the signs associated with a clogged drain line to maximize your investment in air conditioning. So, let’s get started.
Signs That Your AC Drain Requires Professional Attention
Your AC drain line plays a crucial role in the operation of your entire system. Clogged drain lines prevent your system from removing the water released when your unit’s evaporator converts refrigerant from liquid to gas. This transformative process regarding your unit is the most integral function of your AC; it’s what provides your living area with cold air rather than hot and clammy outdoor air.
There are many signs that a clogged AC drain line requires professional attention. In some instances, a clogged drain line may be resolved with routine cleaning, using high-quality air filters, or regular maintenance. Yet, more often than not, any clogging is best removed expeditiously by an HVAC expert. Here are four signs that you may need to contact a technician:
1) Leaking and Standing Water
Leaking and standing water is a result of the backup of your unit’s drain line. Moisture is taken out of your home’s air by the indoor evaporator unit of your air conditioner and ran through the drain line. If you’ve noticed standing puddles of water, or leaks from random parts of your AC unit, it’s most likely a sign of a clogged AC drain line.
Checking your outdoor unit daily for leaks is an excellent way to determine if the standing water results from rainfall or other household leaks. If you’ve decided that the cause of the leakage and standing water is your AC unit, it may be time to contact AC technicians.
2) Water Damage
Water damage to your unit or anything located around your living area may be a direct result of a clogged AC drain line. Leaking water can run throughout your system’s ductwork and cause structural damage to your home. Check for water spots on the floor or around your AC unit to determine if your unit is leaking water. As previously stated, leaking water is one of the top indicators of a clogged drain line.
3) Full Condensate Pan
A condensate drain pain catches all of the humidity and excess water that is removed from your air. It also ensures that the excess water is appropriately expelled from your home. A full or malfunctioning drain pan can signify a clogged AC drain line, leading to mold accumulation and moldy odors. It’s best to contact the experts before mold accumulates.
4) Moldy Smells
Full condensate pans and water damage resulting from leaking water are key contributors to mold growth. If you’re currently experiencing moldy odors within your home or outdoors, check your air conditioning unit! Water that has gathered for an extended period is a hotbed for mold growth. Inhaling moldy odors can be detrimental to your health. This can cause a variety of viral, bacterial, and fungal infections as well as Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis.
Who Should I Call for HVAC Help in Hawaii?
Call the pros! The expert technicians of Island Comfort never cease to amaze. Click in or call us today to have all of your AC-related problems resolved!
Loud AC: Why Is It Happening and Should You Be Worried?
August 18th, 2021AC units have improved by leaps and bounds in the last few decades. Air conditioners are now quieter than ever. If your system is making louder noises than usual, take note. These mysterious noises can be indications that your system has encountered a problem.
5 Noises Your AC System Shouldn’t Be Making
Air conditioners now incorporate sound-dampening technology that minimizes the sounds of your AC system’s many functions. Whereas some noises are natural, many noises could be signs of potential AC malfunctions resulting in the dysfunctionality of your unit.
Take a minute to read up on these various AC sounds. If you’re currently experiencing any of the following strange noises emitting from your AC unit, don’t hesitate to contact an expert technician.
1) Buzzing
Your outdoor AC unit should never emit a buzzing noise, which could be an indication of loose parts. Due to improper installation or normal wear and tear, components of your unit could become detached.
The key culprit of this noise is typically an outdoor fan motor that’s loose or about to fail. When experiencing buzzing, it’s imperative to contact a technician immediately for air conditioner repairs. The outdoor fan motor is an integral part of the functionality of your AC unit, and a malfunctioning one could be the cause of your AC making noise.
2) Clicking
The clicking sounds that an AC unit emits when starting up and shutting down are typical for its function. However, consistent and constant clicking isn’t a normal part of the operation of a unit. Clicking can be an indicator of a failing thermostat, which monitors and regulates your home’s indoor temperature and communicates with your AC unit.
3) Clanging
Clanging is another sign of loose parts, most likely indicating a problem with your AC unit’s compressor. Clanging can also suggest that the indoor blower or outdoor fan is out of balance and hitting other parts. Issues such as these could pose a more significant threat to your AC system’s overall efficiency and health if a technician isn’t contacted to repair AC clanging.
4) Squealing
A malfunction regarding the indoor blower or outdoor fan could potentially create a squealing sound. These noises can often be heard throughout the ducts of your AC system and indicate a blower or fan that’s going bad. The indoor blower wheel will squeal if it’s malfunctioning. These sounds can be typical during AC start-up, but if they’re just beginning to occur, it could mean that it’s time for air conditioner repairs.
5) Rattling
If your air conditioner rattles, it could be a clue that components of the unit are beginning to deteriorate. This can be a sign of normal wear and tear, corrosion, or a refrigerant leak. Another cause of rattling could be that debris such as twigs or leaves has gotten caught in your system.
In addition, rattling could signify loose parts in your unit, most likely the compressor. Rattling noises are the most notorious of AC systems as they can indicate many internal malfunctions. It’s best to contact a technician if your AC is making a rattling noise.
How Do I Stop Loud AC Noises?
An AC making noise nowadays should be considered a rarity. Getting the noises to stop is about more than minimizing the sound; it’s about fixing the cause of the noises in the first place. Noises emitted from your AC unit could signify many problems with your air conditioner. Therefore it’s in your best interest to contact a professional.
Island Comfort has been providing Hawaii residents with peace of mind regarding their air conditioners for years. If you’re experiencing noises coming from your AC, give us a call today!
