Repair vs. Replace
At the time your cooling system breaks down, you may be faced with the choice of repairing your existing unit, by having one or more of the components replaced, or purchasing a new air conditioner system. Many HVAC companies prefer clients to purchase new units because there is a higher profit in replacing equipment with something new, rather than repairing it.

3H Contracting focuses on educating its customers so that you can make an informed decision regarding the replacement or repair of your current air conditioner. Sometimes, simple repairs can sufficiently prolong the life of an air conditioner so that immediate replacement of the unit is not the most sensible option. Repairs on an existing unit may be the least expensive immediate option. Paying for repairs on an older, inefficient system simply prolongs the inevitable. An older system that breaks down once is likely to break down again. And it will consume more energy than a newer system. Installing a new, energy efficient system will actually pay for itself over time in savings, and you will qualify for rebates from your power company.

Sometimes environmental laws determine the course of action a technician must take when faced with malfunctioning equipment. For example, some consumers ask contractors to repeatedly recharge air conditioning systems which are leaking refrigerant. If an air conditioning system is releasing more than fifteen percent of its charge over the course of a year the EPA requires the system to be repaired utilizing the proper leak detection and repair process, rather than repeatedly recharged. If the evaporator coil has numerous leaks or is severely corroded, a reputable contractor will advise the consumer to replace the unit.

PROPER INSTALLATION IS CRITICAL
The Installation - Who you choose for the installation of your new air conditioning system is a significant factor in your comfort, and the cost of operating it. In fact, the quality of the installation has a greater impact on system efficiency than the equipment itself. When a new system arrives, our courteous installation technicians will carefully install it in your home or business. We are very professional during our time at your home. After the installation is complete, we make sure to leave your home clean. Respecting your home is a part of our commitment to customer satisfaction.

3H Contracting Inc. offers the following home and commercial air conditioning services: air conditioning unit tune up, gas leak detection, duct repair or replacement, fuse replacement, motor replacement, installation of central air conditioners, heating and air conditioning upgrade, replace air conditioner filters, install mini split air conditioner, air purification, air purifier installation, split system air conditioner service, most heating units, heat pump service, we carry most air conditioning parts unlike many HVAC contractors, central AC service, zone control and zone system installation, geothermal system installation and service, heat recovery unit installation and service. We specialize in providing professional air conditioning & heating services, including energy saving maintenance, repair and installation.

If you own your home or business, you will need the services of a professional HVAC Contractor. HVAC is an acronym that stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It is alternately referred to as "climate control". Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning improves the quality of indoor air, provides temperature control, and controls the flow of air throughout your home or business. If you find the air inside your house to be too hot, too cold, or too stuffy, then you need the help of a qualified HVAC contractor.

Why Finding the Right HVAC Contractor Is Important
Whether you're looking for a new installation or upgrade of an existing system, a qualified contractor needs to make a visual inspection of the site or system. Avoid any contractor that wants to give you an estimate without doing an initial onsite inspection. You might find that such a contractor is only interested in the profits and not in quality service.

The contractor will run through a complete checklist, as well as determining the square footage of your home or business in order to run a heat-load calculation for the structure. The contractor will then have the information to provide you with an accurate estimate for your project. A qualified A/C contractor can often provide you with a selection of system options to suit your needs.

If you have an older system that is no longer efficient, we will ask specific questions and calculate your specific needs to pinpoint the problem and find solutions. Some systems are simply too small for the home or business where they are installed, and we can help you decide on a new system or the appropriate upgrades. Over time you will find that the proper system will be more energy efficient and therefore more cost effective.

What to Expect from an HVAC Contractor
It's perfectly alright to ask any prospective contractor for references. You can also ask friends, family and co-workers if they have had any experience with a contractor. They might be able to offer you some good leads. Call the Better Business Bureau to determine if the contractor has a good business history.

You also need to make sure that the contractor you are considering is licensed, insured and bonded. An HVAC contractor is required to take specific tests to ensure they have the necessary skills before they can receive a license. It's important that any contractor have Workers Compensation as well as be bonded to protect your property from possible damage.

Make sure there is a listing in your local phone book for any A/C contractor you are thinking of hiring. A contractor with an actual business location is most likely to have a reputable company. Reputable companies should readily provide any necessary contact information. Without an actual address or other contact information, you have no way of knowing the contractor will be around if you need repairs on equipment that is still under warranty.

Ask the contractor what type of test equipment he uses to ensure your home or business is safe. How do they handle the recovery of refrigerants to ensure they are properly disposed of and will not contaminate the air? A qualified A/C contractor will have an EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) license to handle refrigerants.

Safeguard Your Investment with a Knowledgeable HVAC Contractor
Keep in mind that you don't have to accept the first estimate you get. Get several quotes from different contractors and take your time to compare them. If you feel unsure about a specific company or contractor, keep looking for one that you feel is right for the job. Don't go with the cheapest quote simply because of all the money you think you're saving. Ask the contractor to explain how he arrived at his estimate. Don't look for the cheapest deal on heating and cooling equipment. Instead look for the most reliable quality for the price.

When it comes time to install, upgrade, or repair your system you want to choose a qualified A/C contractor. A qualified contractor will behave in a professional manner. The contractor should arrive on time or call if they're dealing with an emergency. Their offices and vehicles will represent the level of their professionalism.

The lowest quote is not always your best option. You want the best bid, and that's one where you will get quality equipment and service at the best price. Your air conditioning system is an important part of your home or business. The contractor you hire should be there to help you keep it operating correctly.

The way an HVAC Contractor controls your home's air flow is quite simple. A series of air ducts are installed throughout the building, delivering a continuous supply of fresh air when the system is turned on. This air may be warmed (for example, by a heat pump) or cooled (by an air conditioner or outdoor cooling unit), or it may be the air within your home being filtered and recycled to prevent rooms from getting stuffy. You're A/C Contractor will determine what size system you need, and install all of the necessary components.

While most people understand the meaning and purpose of air conditioning systems, the need for effective ventilation is commonly overlooked. Anybody who steps into your house will instantly be exposed to all the smells, smoke, dust, moisture, and airborne bacteria circulating inside your house. A professional A/C contractor can install a system for removing polluted air outside of your home, as well as helping to clean the air within. Adequate ventilation can prevent illness, improve the quality of indoor air, and keep your house smelling fresh. The contractor can discuss the different types of mechanical and forced-air ventilating systems with you, and find one that exactly fits your requirements.

Home Climate Control and your HVAC Contractor
Determining the size of the system your home needs is an important first step before you buy. An experienced contractor uses many different factors to decide what is best. These include the size and type of your home, walls, and windows, whether your home has insulation (and, if so, the type and density), the condition of your attic, and whether your home is oriented towards or away from the sun. The contractor may also use a computerized system to calculate each room's heating and cooling needs, to further fine-tune their recommendations.

The proper system size is extremely critical. You're A/C contractor should not be trying to sell you the biggest, fastest, most expensive system. A system that is too large for a home could condition the air fast, but may not remove enough moisture from the air as it works. This means the air intended to cool you off will leave you feeling sticky and humid instead. This could lead to potential mold problem or the generation of harmful bacteria inside your home.

A system that is too large will also turn itself on and off more often. This is known as "short-cycling". This can put tremendous pressure on your system, causing it to break down sooner. It will also increase your energy bills substantially. Likewise, a system that is too small will overwork itself in an attempt to heat or cool the entire space and suffer a break down quickly as well. So, if the contractor does try to sell you the biggest and the most expensive, they would only be complicating your life and theirs with needless service calls. Since a professional contractor relies on word-of-mouth for their reputation, treating each customer right and getting them the best system possible is their goal.

When You Need an HVAC Contractor
You should contact a qualified contractor when your air conditioning or ventilation system is not working as desired. In particular when there are several components that need service immediately. If your air conditioning system stops working during days of extreme temperatures, it could present health risks. Rather than jeopardize the safety of your family, call you're A/C contractor and correct the problem at the source first.

If you have an outdoor heat pump, you should make a habit of checking on it during the colder months to ensure it isn't being negatively affected by the weather. Your A/C contractor can inspect and clean it to maintain proper working condition. Regular checks can make the difference between a minor repair and a complete replacement.

Your ventilation system should be regularly serviced. Over time, bacteria, dust, and fungus can collect in your ductwork, aggravating asthma and allergies, and potentially making you ill. When the ducts are used, dust from inside will be blown out into the home, which increases the workload when you clean your house. Finally, regular duct cleanings by a knowledgeable contractor helps your entire home air conditioning and heating system run more efficiently. Lowering your bills and extending the equipment's lifespan.

Air conditioners also bring the added benefit of removing humidity from the air. The condensed water is sent to a drain, which is why sometimes one might see water dripping from the bottom of an air conditioner unit during use. Issues with this might be related to overflow or blockage of the drain. Improper installation or service could lead to water damage, electrical fires, etc. All systems require trained professionals for installation and service. Failure to do this may result in a breakdown or unsafe operation.

The Benefits of Regular Service from Your HVAC Contractor

You should plan to have your entire air conditioning system evaluated by an experienced A/C technician two to four times a year. Tune ups in spring and fall prepare your system for the summer and winter, and adjustments during the off seasons keep your system running at peak efficiency. When you're A/C system is healthy, your home is more comfortable and cleaner as a result. A system operating efficiently will keep your energy cost low. 3H Contracting will be happy to prepare your system to run at its best when you need it most.