News Summary

As Houston faces a rise in temperatures reaching the mid-to-high 90s, HVAC professionals stress the need for air conditioner maintenance. Increased service calls highlight the urgency for homeowners to prepare their cooling systems. Routine inspections, cleaning air ducts, and ensuring proper airflow are crucial steps, especially with summer approaching. Additionally, Reliant Energy’s ‘Beat the Heat’ program aims to provide free portable AC units to those in need. The article also touches on Austin’s new building codes for air conditioning systems, emphasizing the growing need for efficient cooling solutions amid climate change.

Houston Residents Urged to Prepare Air Conditioners for Rising Temperatures

Houston is facing a significant rise in temperatures, expected to hit the mid-to-high 90s this week. As the heat intensifies, local HVAC professionals are emphasizing the importance of preventative maintenance for air conditioning units, ensuring they are operational when needed most.

Jay Jahantash, the president of Smart Air HVAC company, has noted a marked increase in service calls, prompting him to actively inspect air conditioning units across the city. Reports indicate that calls for air conditioning service in May have surged compared to the same month last year, leading to a greater demand for technician assistance.

Homeowners are taking proactive steps by hiring technicians to perform various tasks, including upgrading thermostats, clearing debris from vents, and replacing air filters. Proper air flow is fundamental to the effectiveness of air conditioning systems. This involves not only the interior air filters but also the exterior coils that work together to maintain efficiency.

Failure to service air conditioning units can result in significant issues, such as excessive pressure on the compressor, which can lead to more serious and costly problems. Jahantash advises homeowners to schedule checks for their air conditioning units before summer officially begins, as June and July are the peak months for service requests. Ensuring that these units are functioning optimally is crucial to coping with the rising summer temperatures effectively.

Additionally, residents should be aware of signs that their air ducts may need cleaning. These can include dust emanating from vents, rising energy bills, musty odors, and health issues such as allergies. Cleaning and maintaining air ducts can enhance system performance and improve indoor air quality.

In a related initiative, Reliant Energy has announced its annual “Beat the Heat” program, which provides free portable air conditioning units to eligible seniors and families in need. These units are distributed through the City of Houston, with details for this year’s program currently being finalized. This initiative is aimed at ensuring that vulnerable populations can stay cool during the hot summer months.

In contrast to Houston’s situation, the City of Austin is revising its building codes to ensure that residential properties have accessible air conditioning systems. The proposed changes would require all homes, whether existing properties or new constructions, to maintain a 15-degree cooling differential from outside temperatures. This amendment aims to improve public health and safety, particularly as summers become increasingly hotter due to climate change. Renters in Austin will have the ability to report compliance issues to the city through the 311 system.

Homeowners in Houston should also consider the financial implications of HVAC maintenance and replacement. The average cost for replacing an HVAC system ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. As temperatures rise, the importance of maintaining cooling systems becomes even more critical to prevent costly replacements and ensure comfortable living conditions.

As Houston residents prepare for a sizzling summer, they are encouraged to take necessary measures to ensure their air conditioning units are in top shape. Engaging with qualified HVAC technicians and utilizing available community resources can help mitigate the challenges posed by the impending heat.

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Additional Resources

• KHOU: Houston Heat Wave and Air Conditioner Tips
• Community Impact: Velocity Air AC & Heating
• Chron: Best HVAC Services in Houston
• Austin Monitor: City Council Air Conditioning Requirements
• Google Search: Air Conditioning Maintenance