Why Won’t My Furnace Stop Running?

Is your furnace blowing air without pause? If so, you’re probably feeling a bit concerned. First, your Wortham Village house most likely feels like an oven. On top of that, your utility bill will be considerably higher with your furnace constantly running. Believe it or not, this is a fairly common problem our professionals at A-Plus Mechanical see frequently, so you don’t need to worry.

Before calling in a professional, check these three things:

1. Be sure you have the right thermostat settings.

Be sure your thermostat is set to a reasonable temperature. ENERGY STAR® recommends keeping it 8 degrees Fahrenheit cooler when you are sleeping during the winter to save on utility costs. If you set your thermostat to ultra-high temperatures, this may cause it to run constantly. Additionally, be sure to set your thermostat to Auto instead of On. The On setting causes it run constantly, instead of incrementally.

2. Check the filter.

If you haven’t changed your furnace filter in a while, this could be the source of the problem. Over time, dust and debris clog your filter. This constricts airflow, which means the furnace has to work extra hard to maintain the desired temperature in your Texas home. Depending on how clogged the filter is, it may have your unit running nonstop.

3. Check the pilot light.

If the pilot light underneath the furnace is out, it can’t generate heat. In many cases, this causes your furnace to run continuously, because it can’t reach the desired temperature. If the pilot light goes out again, call one of our knowledgeable and highly trained experts.

If none of the previous steps worked, schedule a repair with us at A-Plus Mechanical. Here are three potential problems requiring our professional help:

1. Leaky ducts

If any of your ducts are punctured or blocked, this means heat isn’t being circulated properly. You’re losing heat and losing money through your utilities at the end of the month. One of our professionals can run a thermal analysis to determine the location of the leaks and repair your ductwork.

2. Broken fan motor

When your fan motor is obstructed, broken, or otherwise faulty, it can’t operate at full capacity. That means it has to run continuously to reach the set temperature. Unusual noises from your furnace are a sign you have a broken motor.

3. Thermostat malfunction

Your thermostat is the brain of the operation. When it sends the wrong information to your furnace, a number of things can go bad. You could have a broken relay switch, or your thermostat could be producing an inaccurate temperature reading.

Contact Us for All Your Furnace Needs

We want our neighbors here in Wortham Village, TX, to come to a happy, healthy furnace every night this season. To restore your unit to optimal condition, call us at A-Plus Mechanical at 281-970-5200 or request service online today.

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5 Reasons to Schedule a Fall Furnace Clean and Check

Once the cooler weather hits here in Wortham Village this fall, you are going to want the inside of your home toasty and comfortable. This means turning on your furnace. Long before the first night you’ll want to use it, you should have your furnace cleaned and checked by a professional from A-Plus Mechanical.

You may think this maintenance is unimportant and you can save money by forgoing it, but you would be mistaken. Here are five reasons you should call to schedule your appointment today.

1.  It prevents unexpected and costly breakdowns.

When you schedule your furnace clean and check regularly on an annual basis, you are preventing breakdowns. By having one of our seasoned experts inspect and clean your system, he or she can spot any impending repairs or weaknesses. This alerts you so you can take care of the issue in a timely manner, circumventing middle-of-the-night emergencies when emergency services will cost you more.

2.  It saves on monthly energy bills.

By having your furnace cleaned regularly, which includes replacing or cleaning your filter, your furnace can work more efficiently, saving you energy. Once it gets dirty, airflow becomes diminished and blocked. This causes your furnace to work harder, using more energy to do the same amount of work it normally does under easier conditions.

3.  It keeps you and your family safe.

When your furnace is not inspected and cleaned before you use it every fall, you run the risk of missing a possible unsafe issue or repair. Sometimes something as dangerous as a cracked heat exchanger can occur.

According to the Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), this can leak toxic carbon monoxide into your Texas home’s air, and you may not be aware of it at the beginning stages of the problem. By then, dangerous levels of the poisonous gas could already be in your home. One of our professional and highly trained technicians can spot and address safety issues prior to them becoming unsafe.

4.  It extends your furnace’s life span.

Your furnace is meant to run smoothly and efficiently, with an expected life span of 15 to 20 years (for gas furnaces). When you neglect its annual clean and check, the dirt and dust accumulated inside builds up and causes problems.

This in turn forces your system to work harder, wearing down its parts sooner. Keeping things running smoothly helps your furnace live a long and healthy life.

5.  It keeps the warranty valid.

Your furnace most likely came with a manufacturer’s warranty. Many of these warranties specify that regular maintenance needs to be performed to keep the system in tip-top shape and to prevent unneeded repairs. By not scheduling these maintenance appointments, your chance of incurring repairs increases and may void your warranty.

Schedule Your Furnace Clean and Check Today

To ensure the best results for both your furnace and your pocketbook, be sure to schedule your annual furnace clean-and-check appointment before the cold weather hits here in Wortham Village, TX. You want your furnace to start right up without issue. Call one of our A-Plus Mechanical team members at 281-970-5200 or request service online to make your appointment today.

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What Maintenance Is Needed for a Ductless System?

A ductless heating and cooling system, or a mini split, is a splendid choice for your Cypress home and a worthwhile investment. It offers many benefits, and you can enjoy them all for years to come if you maintain the system on a consistent basis.

As with any heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, you need to protect your investment. By neglecting regular maintenance, you will shorten your system’s life span and greatly reduce how well it functions, as our A-Plus Mechanical professionals witness quite often.

Beyond the Annual Wellness Exam

While you do need to schedule a regular cleaning and checkup for your unit with one of our  A-Plus Mechanical heating and cooling professionals at least once a year, there are some things you can regularly do on your own.

What Maintenance Can You Do on Your Own?

Before you begin, remember to turn off your system completely—both the indoor and outdoor components—and let them sit for about an hour. Be sure to also turn off the outdoor circuit switch to prevent electric shock.

Here are some do-it-yourself (DIY) tasks our A-Plus Mechanical experts recommend:

•  Check to be sure there is amply cleared space surrounding both the indoor and outdoor units. Each unit should have ample clearance of unobstructed space around it for appropriate airflow and proper operation.

•  Clean both the indoor and outdoor units. For the indoor component, take a damp, soft cloth and wipe it down. Be sure to regularly dust the unit to avoid any significant buildup.

   For the outdoor unit, you will be cleaning the condenser and coils. After being sure the component and electricity are both off, gently squirt it down with your garden hose. Do not use a hose nozzle, as that can apply too much pressure and bend the fragile fins. Your goal is to rinse off any dirt or debris.

   If you maintain this task on a regular basis, it will be much easier to clean and will work more efficiently. After rinsing the unit, wipe off any leftover residual dirt and dry the unit completely, again taking care with the delicate fins.

•  Remove the filter from your indoor component and clean it thoroughly. This should be done every six to twelve weeks. If you have allergies, pets, or smokers in your Texas home, check and clean the filter more often. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) agrees a well-maintained filtration system may have the greatest impact on your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ).

Your filter is one of the most important parts of your ductless system, as it protects both your lungs and the rest of your Cypress system from dust and debris accumulation.

What Will a Professional Do?

There are definitely things our trained professionals will address that you as a homeowner should not. Some of the things checked at your annual maintenance appointment are refrigerant leaks, electrical connections, and run capacitors.

If anything needs repairing or replacing, our A-Plus Mechanical professional will bring it to your attention. Talk to our team for more details on what we do during our maintenance visits.

Contact Us Today

Your ductless system will last for years to come when given the maintenance attention it needs. Call A-Plus Mechanical here in Cypress, TX at 281-970-5200 or request service online today to schedule your appointment. Or if you are considering purchasing a ductless system, call and speak with one of our professionals about how we can help you.

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What Does AC SEER Mean?

When it comes to your air conditioner (AC), a common term used in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) business you are likely to see everywhere is your air conditioner’s SEER. But what exactly is SEER?

SEER

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio—a rating system of the air conditioner’s cooling capacity to power input. In technical terms, it’s the ratio of the amount of cooling produced (in British Thermal Units, or BTUs) divided by the amount of electricity (in watts) used. The higher the SEER, the greater the air conditioner’s efficiency.

According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), heating and cooling units use more energy than any other system in your Wortham Village, TX, home. So when you are in the market for a new air conditioner, you will want to pay attention to the SEER level of the different units you are considering.

The higher the SEER number, the more efficiency bang you will get for your efficiency buck. This translates to money you save in the long run on energy costs.

The DOE requires residential air conditioner systems manufactured after January 1, 2015, to have a minimum SEER based on their location in the country. The country regions were divided in North and South, with the South being further divided into Southeastern and Southwestern regions. Minimum ratings range from 13 to 14 SEER.

Previously all systems manufactured after January 23, 2006, needed to have a minimum SEER rating of 13 (with the exception of window units, being exempt from this law). Older air conditioners have a SEER rating of 10 or under. You can usually find your system’s SEER rating on the yellow-and-black EnergyGuide sticker on the outside of your unit.

Saving Money by Upgrading

If your system is 10 to 15 years old but continues keeping you cool in the summer, you might still want to consider investing in a newer unit. By upgrading to a modern, more efficient model, depending on your current unit’s SEER, you could save quite a bit of money annually on your cooling bill.

To illustrate, say your current system has a SEER rating of 9. If you upgraded to an air conditioner with a 13 SEER, which is the lowest efficiency available, your power consumption would be reduced by 28 percent. Depending on how much you use your system and your cost of electricity, that could save you about $300 a year in energy costs.

The DOE has accessible online energy-efficiency calculators you can find to help you predict the energy costs you will save with different units carrying various SEER ratings. If you would like a more precise analysis, call A-Plus Mechanical and we would be happy to send one of our knowledgeable technicians out to go over the possible savings with you.

Which SEER Is for You?

To carry the Energy Star® label, an air conditioner must be in the top 25 percent of efficient models and have a minimum SEER of 14. But automatically purchasing an air conditioner with a higher SEER is not the go-to answer. Unfortunately, things are not that cut and dry.

The SEER rating represents the potential efficiency of the unit under perfect conditions. Much of the system’s efficiency depends on the right sizing of the unit for your home, along with correct installation and an evaluation of other factors as well. For example, your ductwork and windows may have leaks, thus directly affecting your energy savings.

Also, keep in mind your air conditioner does not operate within a vacuum. It’s directly tied to your furnace or heating system. Depending on what equipment you presently have and its age, this definitely factors into your air conditioner’s SEER rating.

Even though your proposed new unit has an 18 SEER, once married to your current furnace, the SEER may decrease to a 15 or 16. What you need to aim for is the right-sized equipment operating at its optimal ratings within varying conditions for the best savings and comfort for you.

Contact Us for Your Air Conditioning and SEER Needs

At A-Plus Mechanical we have specialist technicians here in Wortham Village, TX, who calculate these various factors when proposing the optimal system for your home, comfort, and budget. Give us a call at 281-970-5200 or request service online, and we would be happy to help you with any of your air conditioner needs.

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Why Is a Home Dehumidifier Important?

Although most Wortham Village homeowners understand the importance of having a working heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to provide heating and cooling throughout the year, some people don’t realize the equally important factor of controlling a home’s humidity levels as well.

Our professionals at A-Plus Mechanical want to provide you with the information to create a healthy, comfortable environment for you and your family. Here is some important information about dehumidifiers and the role they play in your home’s health and comfort.

What Is a Dehumidifier?

A dehumidifier is a piece of equipment that removes moisture from the surrounding air. It works opposite of a humidifier, which adds moisture to the air. Dehumidifiers are often used in humid climates during the summer months in areas where weather turns both hot and humid, or year-round in humid areas of a home like a basement.

These systems work similar to air conditioners by pulling in warm, moist air throughout your home using the ductwork. This air then passes over coils that contain coolant, which forces the moisture to condense on the coil and then fall into a container. Room dehumidifiers may need to be emptied occasionally, or you can attach a drainage tube to allow the unit to constantly drain

What Are the Benefits of a Dehumidifier?

By removing the moisture from your Texas home, you’ll not only make your home feel cooler and more comfortable, but you’ll also create an environment that is less likely to allow things like dust mites, mold spores, and other allergens to thrive. For both your and your home’s health, you want to strive for the highest indoor air quality possible.

According to ENERGY STAR®, the ideal humidity levels for a residential home generally falls between 30 and 50 percent. However, the range can vary depending on the outside temperatures. You may want to invest in a communicating thermostat that senses humidity to continually monitor the humidity levels in your home and control it accordingly.

Another thing to remember is that new and remodeled homes may be more likely to trap moisture due to advances in insulation and building practices, creating much tighter homes. Although creating a tight home helps it to be more energy efficient, it can result in indoor air quality issues.

What Are Signs You Need a Dehumidifier?

You may be able to notice signs around your home that indicate your indoor moisture levels are too high. Here are some things to watch for:

• Condensation on your windows or doors. If you see small drops of water beading or a fog layer building up on the inside of your windows, you may have a humidity problem. This moisture could eventually rot the wood around your windows or allow mold to grow.

• Mold growth. Check your basement ceilings and the corners of your walls for mold growth. Moisture rises, so you will often see the first evidence of mold in these areas.

• Musty odor. If you detect a musty smell in your basement, crawl space, laundry room, entrances, or garage, you may be fighting a moisture issue.

• Basement watermarks. Many homes may have reoccurring spring water runoff, which can seep into a basement. Look for white or grey water-level marks as evidence of this problem.

• Blistering paint or peeling wallpaper. Excess moisture in the air can eventually penetrate the surrounding walls. It becomes steam and can cause your paint and wallpaper to lose adhesion, resulting in bubbles or peeling.

• Creaky doors, windows, and floors. As wood absorbs moisture, it will expand. This can cause joints, screws, and the structural frame of your home to loosen and creak.

Contact Your Indoor Air Quality Experts

If you’re concerned about humidity levels in your home, turn to A-Plus Mechanical in Worthham Village, TX, for help. We can test humidity levels as well as recommend home hygrometers and dehumidifiers to assist you in managing the problem before it causes long-term, expensive damage. Call 281-970-5200 or request service online today.

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How Can I Afford a New AC System?

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected so many lives around us, both health-wise and financially. At A-Plus Mechanical Services, we remain committed to providing the best service to all our Texas customers during this difficult time. Let’s stick together as a community and help each other whenever we can.

We can certainly understand how you might want to replace your older air conditioner, or even your furnace, with a newer energy-efficient model but are concerned about the timing. Please know there are plenty of financing options available regardless of your credit history or current situation.

Financing Your Heating and Cooling Equipment

At A-Plus Mechanical Services, we offer financing options with quick approvals! Whether you need to replace a costly part or want to purchase a new product, schedule an appointment with our finance team to see how we can help you. We can help you with the application process while going over rates and low monthly payment options.

Another option is to check with the Cypress and Texas government to see if low-interest loans are available on the purchase of energy-efficient HVAC equipment. Many cities and states around the country offer programs designed to help out with green home improvements. A little research could save you a bundle of money.

Veteran and Senior Discount Programs

If you are a veteran interested in making home improvements, consider applying with the Veteran Loan Center for a low-interest loan. Active-duty soldiers and veterans are eligible.

Many options are available for seniors to upgrade their property. Start with your local aging agencies and work your way up. These programs are designed to keep you comfortable in your own home.

Check Out the Rebates!

At A-Plus Mechanical Services, we partner with many manufacturing companies that offer significant rebates. These rebates can save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, depending on the model you purchase. Our team will gladly assist you in choosing the right system for your budget and lifestyle, and then helping to fill out any available rebate forms.

Most older furnaces and air conditioners operate at an efficiency rate between 60 and 70 percent. That means for every dollar you invest to heat and cool your home, at least 30 cents is wasted. If you can replace that older equipment with a newer model that has an efficiency rating of 90 percent or higher, you are going to save a lot of money on your monthly energy bills.

Energy efficiency has a lot to do with the energy rebates many utility companies offer their customers. Once again, it depends on the model you choose and its energy efficiency, but contacting your energy company in advance of your purchase will give you an idea of what you can expect. You may also qualify for a tax rebate or break from the IRS on your new system. Be sure to speak with a tax expert about this possibility.

Three Reasons to Replace Your HVAC System

Investing in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment can be a considerable expense, but it is a wise decision. Here are three reasons why it makes sense:

1. Increase Your Home Market Value

We buy new cars knowing they depreciate as soon as we leave the dealership lot. A reliable HVAC system does just the opposite—it adds value to your Cypress home. Environmentally friendly homes with updated systems sell quicker and command a higher price. Those manufacturer warranties, certifications, and scheduled maintenance calls make your home more marketable.

2. Improve Your Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

If someone in your life has asthma, allergies, or any other type of respiratory condition, then you know the importance of maintaining high indoor air quality. Our team can install ultraviolet (UV) lights, air filtration systems, humidifiers, and zone control systems designed to improve your health.

3. Add Comfort to Your Home

Reduce your carbon footprint, improve your indoor air quality, and guess what? Your Cypress home is suddenly much more comfortable. Your HVAC system is running at peak capacity, using less energy, and lowering your utility bills. Breathe easy—you are home.

Most people spend 90 percent of their day indoors, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Investing in your home, health, and comfort just makes sense.

Call Us About Financing

Enjoy the warm weather comfortably, with a cooling system that does its job in your Cypress, TX, home. Our team at A-Plus Mechanical Services takes great pride in building lasting relationships with every customer.

We care about your health and your comfort. Call 281-970-5200 or request service online today to learn more about our financing options and how we can help you achieve the comfort you deserve.

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Consider a Ductless AC System

When you think of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, you probably think of the furnace and air conditioner (AC) equipment inside, an air conditioner component outside, and a network of ducts running throughout your Wortham Village home.

Although many HVAC systems are designed that way, there are other alternatives. Our team at A-Plus Mechanical Services wants you to be well-informed about your options, and those options include ductless air conditioning systems that can function as an air conditioner only or a heat source as well.

Different Design

Unlike conventional whole-house HVAC systems, ductless systems are much more compact and can be installed most anywhere in your home. Also referred to as a ductless mini split system or a ductless heat pump, these systems have only three main components.

The indoor unit, which is typically installed on a room’s wall or ceiling, is the air handler. The outdoor unit is the condenser. Then the third component is the small conduit connecting the indoor and outdoor components through a small, three-inch hole in your wall. The conduit houses the condensate drain, suction tubing, refrigerant tubing, and power cable.

Best Applications

There is no one-size fits all in HVAC systems. Instead, every home in Texas will require a specific heating and cooling solution designed for that particular space.

Ductless air conditioners can work anywhere in your home. You could even set up a zones system for your entire home, with up to eight inside ductless units connected to only one outdoor component.

You might choose to install a ductless system in an area of your home that has no access to your current home ductwork or if you simply want separate temperature control there, such as a house addition, garage, attic, or basement or in an area which requires a different temperature than the rest of your home. For example, a home office used only during business hours or a recreation room that’s active only on weekends would be a perfect application for this type of heating and cooling system. In addition, a ductless system can be a great solution for a small apartment.

Advantages

One of the biggest advantages of a ductless system is you don’t lose energy while your cooled air travels through your duct system, since this system is ductless. According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), more than 30 percent of energy can be lost through air ducts.

Ductless systems also have more efficient compressors. Conventional HVAC compressors typically turn on and off to regulate temperature as determined by your home’s thermostat. Conversely, compressors in ductless systems simply slow down or speed up, saving significant energy by eliminating that on and off cycling.

Another benefit ductless systems can provide is an easy way to establish different comfort and temperature zones in your home. Bedrooms can be cooled or warmed during sleeping hours while the rest of the home is in energy-saving mode. Guest rooms can be made more comfortable when you have visitors while staying energy efficient most of the time.

In addition, ductless air conditioning systems are small and quiet. They can be very energy-efficient solutions, saving the cooling lost through an air duct system in a traditional central air conditioning system or the energy lost around a window air conditioner.

When chosen, different models can also be used for supplemental heating in the winter. In this way, it operates like a heat pump, moving heat from inside to outside in the summer and from outside to inside in the winter.

Disadvantages

Ductless air conditioning systems can be initially more expensive to purchase when compared with more conventional options. However, you will be able to recoup some of these initial costs through long-term energy savings. And the installation itself is typically less costly since the installation time for these systems is much less than a traditional HVAC system.

You should also note that filter changes and cleaning must be diligently performed in order to keep the unit operating at its best. Repairs can be more expensive if regular maintenance is ignored.

Contact A-Plus Mechanical Services Today

To learn more about ductless air conditioning systems, contact our trained professionals at A-Plus Mechanical Services in Wortham Village, TX. Our team is anxious to share what makes and models we have available and answer any questions you may have. Call 281-970-5200 or request service online today.

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What Does Indoor Air Quality Have to Do With Allergies?

Did you know the average American spends nearly 90 percent of life indoors? That’s why it is increasingly important to ensure indoor air quality (IAQ) is clean and healthy. If your Cypress home is facing air-quality issues, you may be suffering anything from minor discomfort to significant allergy or health problems. Our team at A-Plus Mechanical Services wants to help keep your home’s indoor air quality high and you and your family healthy and comfortable.

Understand the Scope of the Allergy Issue

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI), roughly 10 to 30 percent of people suffer from allergies.

Although some common allergens originate outdoors, such as grass and tree pollen, they can still make their way into your home. Dust and dust mites are present in every Texas home, causing an allergic reaction for many. Common pets such as cats and dogs shed hair and dander, which affects air quality. Other indoor allergens may include mold, fungus, and chemicals released from paints and carpets.

Individuals react to allergens differently. Some just suffer from minor sneezing and itchy eyes. Others may have significant respiratory problems that can interfere with daily life. Remedies from over-the-counter medications to allergy shots can be used to battle this common ailment. However, most health care professionals will encourage avoiding allergens in the first place as the best line of defense.

Improve Air Quality With an Air Conditioner

Most heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems have built-in air filters designed to address basic indoor air quality issues. Standard filters can trap large particles, and with regular filter changes, this can improve your indoor air quality.

Homeowners who suffer from allergies may want to invest in a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which can trap very small particles, helping to clean the air further. Pet dander, dust, and small fibers from paper and clothing can be filtered out easily.

Air conditioners also dehumidify the indoor air, which discourages the growth of other allergens such as mold and fungus.

Consider Installing Air Purifiers

Many different kinds of air purification systems are available on the market today. Each has a different strength and purpose.

For instance, if you are concerned about bacteria and viruses, you may want to consider an ultraviolet (UV) air cleaner. These were originally used in hospitals and can also kill mold and pathogens. Smoke and odors, on the other hand, are best removed with activated carbon filters.

HEPA air purifiers work similarly to HEPA air filters used on HVAC systems. They work to filter dander, pollen, mold spores, and dust.

Another popular air cleaner is the ionic air purifier. These force allergens such as dust to become heavier by attaching negative ions to them. Allergens then accumulate on carpets and surfaces to be cleaned up.

Some more advanced systems may include a static electricity, HEPA filter and ionic purifier in a single unit that works with your HVAC system.

Clean Air Ducts to Remove Allergens

Air ducts carry your heated or cooled air throughout your home from your central HVAC system. Often, common allergens such as dust, dirt, dander, and other debris can build up in your duct system. Over time, these allergens may be transported to the living areas of your home.

Contact Us Today About Your Indoor Air Quality

Our professionals at A-Plus Mechanical Services in Cypress, TX, can help you find ways to reduce allergens in your home through different indoor air quality solutions. Call us at 281-970-5200 or request service online to speak to one of our knowledgeable team members today.

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Covid-19 Policy

In our current and rapidly changing new environment, it is important that we carefully monitor and do what we can to prevent the spread of the rapidly evolving COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation. A-Plus Mechanical Services is dedicated to the safety and well-being of our clients and has firmly adopted the following policies to ensure we are doing everything we can for not only our clients but the entire Metro area.

• Our technicians will always wear fresh latex-free vinyl gloves while on the job.
• Our technicians will continue to wear clean shoe covers.
• Technicians are required to regularly disinfect their tools and vans with bleach products.
• Technicians are required to regularly clean their iPads and phones with bleach products.
• We will disinfect all surfaces which we encounter with bleach products (furnaces/thermostats).
• Technicians will remove all refuse in A-Plus Mechanical Services supplied trash bags.
• We have adopted a no-handshake policy both in the office and in the field.
• Any employee in the office or the field will be sent home for at least 14 days if they are feeling ill or showing any symptoms of being ill.
• We have communicated to our vendors that they are not to visit our office until conditions have improved.
• We have halted all business travel until further notice.
• Office personnel is required to sanitize their workspace multiple times per day.

A-Plus Mechanical Services is happy to discuss any specific requirements or requests you may have to further protect your health and home.

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How Can Your HVAC Equipment Help Protect Against Coronavirus?

The spread of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has all of us greatly concerned in Texas. At A-Plus Mechanical Services, our top priority is the health and safety of you and your loved ones. We take great pride in selling indoor air quality products to Cypress homes and businesses that are energy efficient, environmentally friendly—and extremely effective when it comes to improving your indoor air quality.

What Is COVID-19?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), COVID-19 was first detected in China in December 2019 and has rapidly spread around the world. Symptoms range from a common cold to more severe health issues. An infected person’s cough spreads the coronavirus through respiratory droplets.

Indoor Air Quality Impact and Your Health

Did you ever start sneezing or coughing right after you entered a building or home? You can probably blame the poorly maintained indoor air quality (IAQ).

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ranks indoor air quality as one of the top five environmental risks to the public’s health. It gets even scarier when you consider that most people spend the vast majority of their time indoors.

You want a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that is designed to know how to maintain fresh indoor air quality.

How HVAC Equipment Can Help You Stay Healthy

Indoor air quality equipment can be designed to restore humidity levels, remove stale air—and kills bacteria. In many cases, this equipment is integrated with your existing ductwork and HVAC equipment, which is why you want one of our certified and insured professionals at A-Plus Mechanical Services to do the work.

Indoor air quality products that you may want to consider for your home include:

• UV (Ultraviolet) Antibacterial Lamps attack biological contaminants inside the home, such as bacteria and viruses, mold spores, and mildew.
• Whole House In-Duct Air Purifiers capable of eliminating dust, dander, and pollen from your entire home.
• Whole-house air filtration systems that trap dust, pollen, bacteria, and other pollutants.
• Whole-house humidifiers and dehumidifiers to properly adjust the amount of moisture in your home.
• Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) that exhaust the stale indoor air and bring in fresh, preconditioned air from the outdoors.

Many of these systems are used in hospitals and industrial facilities around the country. They are proven at maintaining indoor air quality—and are designed to keep you comfortable and healthy inside your Cypress home or business.

Reduce Infection Chances

Remember, these systems maintain a healthy air quality but do not prevent anyone from getting infected. Coronavirus can survive many days on a surface, such as a door handle. Good hygiene also plays a critical role in your health.

Because COVID-19 is spread through respiratory outlets, WHO officials recommend:

• Wash your hands frequently
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth until you wash your hands
• Wipe off door handles and light switches (especially if they are frequently used)
• Maintain a distance of at least three feet from anyone coughing or sneezing
• Stay home if you feel unwell

Until a vaccine for COVID-19 is available, common sense and good hygiene are your best weapons for staying healthy.

Learn More From Your Air Quality Experts

Technology in the HVAC industry is constantly creating a new vision for how we can improve our environment and health in the comfort of our Cypress, Texas, homes. At A-Plus Mechanical Services, we offer products and services that keep you comfortable and safe. Call 281-970-5200 or request service online today to learn more about our indoor air quality services.

The post How Can Your HVAC Equipment Help Protect Against Coronavirus? appeared first on A-Plus Mechanical.

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