Air Conditioning Services in San Antonio

Proper Air Conditioning Maintenance For Maximum Efficiency

You would not want to destroy the warranty of your newly-purchased air conditioning unit, right? Then, never attempt to repair it yourself once you suspect a problem. The soonest that you detect anything erroneous with your system, pick up the phone, call Trophy AC air conditioning Repair, Service and Installation company and stay calm. Let the expert residential and commercial HVAC contractor handle the trouble and correct the errors in your central air conditioning system. The idea of DIY (do-it-yourself) is for those simple home appliances, while professional maintenance is what is needed when it comes to indoor comfort systems. Turn to Trophy AC air conditioning Repair, Service and Installation company because we will gladly take care of your heating and cooling needs.

Help Ensure Top A/C Efficiency By Cleaning Or Replacing The Filter Monthly

To keep your unit running effectively, make it a point to ascertain that the filters, which protect the indoor air that circulates in your house, are properly maintained regularly. Once dust builds up on your filter, the chances of your air conditioning unit to work smoothly are diminished. When the airflow is blocked with these mini particles, your unit will eat up a lot of energy because it will be commissioned to work harder. Never let this unlikely incident to occur. Surely, you would not want your comfort system to give you head aches through eye-popping electric bills. Make it a habit to clean and replace your filters as often as needed. Rule of thumb: The longer the air conditioning unit is running, the sooner it will need cleaning. So if it’s summer, naturally, you will have to clean and/or change your filters more frequent. Remember to turn the air conditioning unit off while removing air filters. To learn more about indoor air quality, please visit: US Environmental Protection Agency.

Efficiency Air Conditioning Can Be Obtained By Keeping Outdoor Unit Clear Of Debris, Leaves And Shrubbery

Not because your air conditioner looks neat on the inside it does not mean that it can do away without inspection or cleaning. Remember, not everything is installed inside. A part of it is left outside the house, which means that you need to check once in a while whether the outdoor unit, too, is accumulating unwanted dirt. One important thing to note are the trees that sit beside it. Fallen leaves may hinder the efficiency of the air conditioning unit so make it a habit to clear your air conditioning units with fallen shrubs.

Keep Your Air Conditioning System Looking New For Years

Keeping your air conditioner clean is easy. In fact, soap plus water will do the trick for grease and stains on your unit’s enamel finish. However, for tougher dirt particles and bigger concerns, you must call a reliable air conditioning service like Houston, Austin, Dallas and San Antonio air conditioning Repair, Service and Installation company to handle the problem. Contact us for routine check-ups, heating, cooling and air conditioning repair. Routine check-ups are significant to ensure your unit’s smooth service for long years. An HVAC expert should be left with the dirty job. Call Houston, Austin, Dallas and San Antonio air conditioning Repair, Service and Installation company, the most trusted HVAC contractor in Houston Dallas, Austin and San Antonio for Commercial and residential projects, at least once every year to check on your unit for possible problems and inefficiency. The professional service is helpful for:

Routine inspection for air filter(s); cleaning or replacement as required.
Inspection as well as cleaning of the blower wheel and housing, as well as motor as needed.
Inspection or, if necessary, cleaning both of outdoor and indoor coils.
Inspection particularly of the drain pan of indoor coil, as well as the primary and secondary drain lines.
Check-up of the electrical connections and wiring.
Security of physical connections of particular individual components within the units.
Operational check-up for the air conditioning system to exactly determine actual operating condition.

CAUTION: Condensate drains should be checked and cleaned periodically. If it cannot drain freely, water damage must be treated.

WARNING: Improper installation, adjustment, alteration, service, maintenance, or use of indoor comfort systems can cause explosion, fire, electrical shock, or other conditions that are threat to people and property.
Contact Arya Air Conditioning and Heating in Houston immediately for proper information and/or assistance. A/C repair professionals use factory-authorized kits and accessories when modifying HVAC products.

How To Operate Your System For Peak Performance
If the idea of air conditioning unit is still new to you, you need not to worry. Here’s a helpful guide to appropriately operate your comfort system that’s as easy as 1-2-3. If you encounter any problems, however, Trophy AC air conditioning Repair, Service and Installation company will be glad to aid you in your need.

To set the temperature, make it a point to place the air conditioning system switch to COOL, while the fan to AUTO. You may then set your desired temperature on thermostat control. Once the system reach the indoor temperature goal, it will automatically shut off.
The same setting applies come winter, only, you will have to switch it on HEAT. Whenever the indoor temperature drops below what was previously set, the system will run and shuts off when the desired or particular temperature is reached.

Save Energy With An Electronic Programmable Thermostat
Thermostats are created to provide you with the temperature that suits your comfort level. Trane air conditioning units are equipped with a program that covers four setup periods excluding the weekend and the vacation programs.

Let The Air Conditioning Thermostat Do Its Job

The thermostat is one of the most significant component of an air conditioning unit. It provides unparalleled efficiency in temperature control. You will never have to turn your system on and off repeatedly once you are able to set desired temperatures. Leave the job to the thermostat and it will gladly provide you with effective results. Be sure not to abuse the component, though. Make up your mind first on your desired temperature (the rule is to keep future adjustments to a minimum so you can be assured of a longer service), set it up and presto! Your unit will run and shut off to meet your comfort level. A recommended temperature setting of 78 degrees F for cooling and 68 degrees F for heating shall guide you for excellent control. However, you may set the room temperature depending on how you preferred it to be. Just make it a point to ascertain that you are not getting your air conditioner overwork. Run it only when necessary so you can enjoy its efficient service for years to come.

Never Stop The Air Conditioning System By Shutting Off The Main Power
To maintain your air conditioning system in fighting form, always take caution when using it. Whenever power interruptions occur, be sure that you are able to turn off the thermostat, never letting it sit for over three hours. Turn the thermostat on as soon as the electricity is restored. Failure to do so may severely damage your unit so beware.

CAUTION: If heating system is not working during the winter, provisions MUST be taken to prevent water pipes from freezing-up.

How To Reduce Summer Humidity
When dealing with the crazy summer heat, your air conditioner is commissioned to perform other tasks like removing excess moisture rather than just cooling the air. This, in turn, push the system work harder, thus, using up a lot of energy. That is what the exhaust fans are for. Make sure one is easily accessible in your kitchen and in the bathrooms as well to help control moisture. So your air conditioning system is left with just a single task to cool the air.

Extra Energy-Saving Tips

Insulation
To conserve energy, insulation is your key. Remember to keep your home properly insulated. Thermal resistance or the R-values should be your basis when installing thermal insulation. R-30 (10″) is particularly suitable for ceilings, while R-11 (3-1/2) is best suited for exterior walls as well as floors on unheated areas. During winter, consider adding insulation for your air conditioning unit.
The infiltration of the outdoor air is your air conditioning system’s biggest enemy. Not only does it push your unit to work better but also requires it to use up more energy — from 15 to 30%! Find holes and patches in your house where air can invade and fill it up with plastics or weather strips so that your heating and/or cooling system will not be overworked. Specifically, take note of air passages on doors and windows.
Remember to keep all doors as well as windows closed at all times.
Installation of storm doors in all the entrances is a big help.
To better secure your windows from outside air, use double glazed windows and low-e glass. An extra layer of glass will considerably cut the transfer of heat from the outside.
Always check that fireplaces are facilitated with tight-fitting dampers that can be easily closed whenever the fireplace is never utilized.
To conserve energy during the cold months, have a humidifier installed. This will keep the air inside not as dry, keeping you comfortable even at a lower temperature setting.

Heating

Place the thermostat away from doors as well as windows.
Set the thermostat in low setting without sacrificing comfort.
When anticipating a large group of people into your home, put the thermostat in low setting because the big crowd has direct effects on the indoor temperature.

Cooling

Set the thermostat high, in a temperature setting that you feel most comfortable.
Remember to keep good ventilation in the attic so as not to buildup heat. Add vents or exhaust fans, if necessary.
When building new home or renovating the old one, select light-colored roof shingles so as to reflect the sun’s heat.
Use your air conditioning unit only when needed.
Put up blinds or drapes to caulk sunlight when it is hottest.
During winter, never run the exhaust fans in your kitchen or bathrooms unless necessary.
Never put lamps, TV sets and other heat-generating gadget beneath a wall-mounted thermostat. Rising heat from these appliances may trigger your conditioning system to overwork.
If you experience any problems with your systems, an air conditioning and heating service, repair and maintenance technician is on standby seven days a week. Trophy AC air conditioning Repair, Service and Installation company operates even during Holidays so you can be sure of excellent installation, maintenance, and repair of your air conditioning unit whenever you need one.

What Is UV Light?

U/V lamps are aided to control the growth of mold and algae in covered spaces. It was first utilized in big establishments and buildings as required by the U.S. Government. Now, the same comfort can be enjoyed by homeowners everywhere. Trophy AC air conditioning Repair, Service and Installation company, the leading HVAC contractor in Houston, Sugerland, Katy & missouri City, has launched UV Germicidal Lamp, which is apt for home and office environments. It is being installed beside the HVAC unit preventing the growth of mold and mildew on your air conditioning system’s coils. It features excellent protection against many kinds of biological contaminants like bacteria, viruses, spores, dust mites, and algae keeping your home and/or office safe from airborne allergens. It also helps reduce odor by effectively treating the air/furnace using UV sterilization day in and day out. Some of the unit’s notable features include:

Allergy/Asthma relief
Pennies/day to operate
Produces no Ozone!
Specifications: – One – 13 watt UV-C lamp
Bulb has a lifespan of 12000 hours
120 volt, with power cord

Why HVAC Contractors Recover Refrigerants (Freon)?
More than thirty years ago, a hole in the ozone layer has been found. That hole shown direct links to the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) worldwide. As you may know by now, the hole in the ozone layer that is getting bigger each day is a major threat to people all over the world because this would mean infiltration of the harmful ultraviolet rays. The UV rays cause skin cancer and cataract outbreaks. In fact, a dramatic rise of skin and eye disease cases have already been recorded in the southern tip region of Chile along with certain auto-immune disorders. Their farms are also suffering, dealing with poor crops and short lifespan for livestock. Next to Chile, every one worldwide should take precautions because there is no way we can prevent the widespread of these problems if we will not control the emission of CFC that, sadly, is a major component of things that we use regularly like hair sprays. Even air conditioning and refrigeration units are guilty of these charge. Good thing, we at the HVAC industry are acting fast now. In a couple of years, we are able to diminish, if not completely eliminate, the use of CFCs by recovering Freon rather than venting the gas. It was pricey both on our part and on the part of our consumers but hey, it’s the most sane thing to do. It’s stipulated in the revised Clean Air Act, after all.
Call Trophy AC with all your AC Repair and Service needs

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3 Common AC Problems You Can Fix Yourself

When your AC unit is working properly, it easily keeps your home at a comfortable temperature, even when it’s sweltering hot. Therefore, there are few worse things than discovering your AC is not working properly on a hot summer day. It’s best to confront problems before they become an issue, so we outline a few of the most common AC problems, how you can identify them, and how to fix them.

Your AC Won’t Turn On

If you have a central AC unit, the first thing you need to do is check your thermostat and ensure that it’s set to “cool” mode. All external wiring should be inspected to make sure it’s intact, as animals chewing on them can sometimes damage them. Does that all check out? If so, look at the electrical wiring in your home as your next step, as you might have blown a fuse or tripped circuit breaker. Resetting the power in your home can help fix the issue.
If you are still having issues with your AC not turning on after those fixes, you might have a problem faulty internal wiring or a broken motor. In both cases, you should contact an HVAC technician to examine your unit and appropriately correct any issues.

Your AC is Not Cold

If no cold air is coming out of your AC unit, check the thermostat and make sure the proper temperature is set. One trick is to lower the temperature by a few degrees, and if there is no noticeable difference, then the problem might be a clogged condenser or evaporator. Turn off your unit and carefully clean out any noticeable dirt or debris, as the build-up of dust or debris such as weeds, leaves, dirt and pollen prevent the cold air from entering your home. Ensure that the coils and fins of your condenser are clean so the air can flow properly. If this doesn’t fix the issue, then you should contact a professional.
Another possible problem might be that your unit has a refrigerant leak. To check if this is the problem, inspect the set line and look for any damaged areas, and do a visual inspection of the inside and outside connections. If there is a wet spot somewhere, this means that there is a refrigerant leak, which an AC technician must fix.

Your AC Conditioner Fan is Not Working

If the conditioner fan in your AC unit isn’t working, you need to check your electrical system and ensure that no switched off the circuit breaker or tripped wire is causing the problem. Next, check your AC unit for excessive ice buildup, which could be causing the fans coils to freeze. If you notice that is the case, then you need to shut off your unit and contact an HVAC technician.

Your AC Has Mold Conditions

Mold in AC units is a common problem, but it’s a serious one, as it can be a detriment to your health. Unfortunately, fixing this is not something that you can DIY, so your best course of action is to contact an HVAC professional. They will have the tools and knowledge to tackle this problem and keep you healthy and happy.
For any Question please visit www.Trophy-AC.com

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The Social Impact of Air Conditioning

Air conditioners are often thought of as just a machine that conditions and cools the air that surrounds us. However, the effects of air conditioners are far reaching, even beyond atmospherics. They have an effect on the way homes are built, what area of the country we live in and how our time is spent. It can be said that air conditioners enable the modern American life style.

Before the invention of air conditioning, in a former (and more likely less comfortable!) era, people used all kinds of strategies for staying cool in the heat. People’s homes were designed keeping airflow in the forefront, meaning that they had higher ceilings and more windows. Porches were also very popular back in the day, and that’s where the whole family spent hot days trying to cool off. There were even sleeping porches with beds so that people could survive the hottest summer nights. A lot of homes were designed with solar developed principles in mind, even though that’s not what they called them.

Introduction of AC into the American Homes

The introduction of air conditioners to our daily life means that it has shaped our family life along with our homes. Houses are now not designed with ventilation in mind; they are now designed for central cooling systems. Very few new homes are built with porches, and families don’t use them anymore, at least not as much as they used to. Now, families gather inside, in the comfort of rooms cooled by an air conditioner and watch television. One might wonder if television would’ve gained its central place in our families life if the rooms we watch it on were not comfortably cool.
Air conditioning has had a significant economic and social impact on modern life, as well as revolutionized society. The invention of air conditioning has influenced nearly every aspect of life. Apart from architecture, it has also changed entertainment and scientific advancements. It could be safe to say that, besides the invention of the computer, air conditioning can be considered the other most significant invention of the 20th century.
Computers give off a lot of heat, and overheating can kill a laptop or PC. Therefore, the computer industry would not have made such significant advancements if it were not for the invention of the air conditioner. When the computer was first invented, they were the size of rooms and gave off a fair amount of heat. If air conditioning wasn’t around to cool down the machines, it’s possible that the computing industry may have never existed.
There are a lot of good things to say about the progress that has been made possible due to air conditioners. Air conditioning allows us to be more productive, and that might even be better for the environment than heating. The air quality we receive from air conditioners means that our health is better, and air conditioners may even save our lives. In Europe, where air conditioners are not as common, a heat wave in 2003 killed more than 70,000 people. Naysayers of air conditioning point out that it has a great electrical and environmental cost, which is true if you see it as an indulgence rather than a necessity.

AC has changed our Lives

As we are becoming more environmentally conscious, it could be tempting to keep our air conditioners off. However, it’s wise to remember that air conditioners have not only cooled the air around us, they’ve also reshaped our habits, entertainment, and infrastructure. Therefore, turn it off if you want to, but the progress and changes have already been made.

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How Air Conditioning Improves Your Quality of Life

As the number of people that have asthma or allergies has risen in the past few years, so has the discussion of the importance of making improvements to indoor air quality. Indoor air quality focuses not just on making sure your AC unit runs smoothly and operates at full capacity, but also on making sure your health is not at risk. Using an AC means that your indoor air quality is improved, and in turn your qualify of life as well.
Breathing
When your body is not inhaling contaminated air, it is easier to breathe and you feel better. For you to stay alive, your body needs to receive the appropriate oxygen. When the indoor air quality in your home or office is at its best, the need for doctors and hospital visits, as well as multiple sick days, will be diminished. When your environment has the right amount of moisture in the air, you will also be able to breathe easier, as you are not breathing in dry air.
Enjoy the Indoors
You always want to be comfortable in your environment, especially in your home or office. Unfortunately, having a poor indoor air quality makes your office or home life uncomfortable. It’s important that you walk into your home or office and not feel sick or that your breathing capacity is diminished. When you improve your indoor air quality with an air conditioner, it makes a huge difference in your comfort levels.
No More Allergies
If something in your home is making you have allergic reactions, but you’ve ruled out almost all the possibilities, making a change to your indoor air quality with an AC can be the solution you’ve been looking for. AC units remove a surprising amount of allergens from your home, including pollen, mold, pet hair, and other allergens that can cause you trouble. When you take the step of installing an AC unit in your home, this will substantially increase your indoor air quality by removing the allergens.
How Does an AC Improve Air Quality?
All AC units contain filters that remove pollutants and allergens by trapping them and therefore improving the air that circulates in your home.
However, this dust, dirt, and mold can build up inside your filters and AC unit, so the filters need to be regularly maintained. Otherwise, your air quality will be reduced.
To improve the air quality in your home, follow these steps:
1. Choose an AC unit that suits your homes individual needs: Make sure that you are purchasing your unit that fills both your AC and heating requirements. It’s also recommended that you get the expertise of an AC technician to discover your home’s specific needs, so you keep your home cool and your energy bills low.
2. Clean your filters: You should clean your AC filters yearly, to ensure any dust, dirt or mold buildup is removed.
3. Replace your filters: Your manufacturer’s guide should tell you how often your filters should be replaced; it’s usually around every three years. Contact Trophy AC in San Antonio for Air Conditioning Repairs

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5 Signs Your AC is Failing | Air Conditioning Repair San Antonio

5 Signs Your AC is Failing
For many of our clients, this isn’t an uncommon situation: it’s the hottest day of the year and you head on over to your AC system only to find it’s broken. Ouch. This can often be avoided, as long as you pick up the warning signs before it’s too late. The following are five most common symptoms that may point to your AC being on the verge of failure.
1. Higher Energy Bills
When an AC unit is wearing out, it must run for a longer period to cool down the temperature. This leads to you receiving higher and higher energy bills, so it’s important that you get it checked out as quickly as possible. It’s best that you replace the filter and clean the coils when the AC starts slowing down, as it will make a big difference. Therefore, if you notice a higher energy bill, along with a less efficient cooling of your house, the most likely culprit is a failing AC unit.
2. No Cold Air Coming From the Vents
Are you not receiving as much cold air as you remember from your vents? If it is not cold at all, or your vents are pumping out warm air, this means that your AC isn’t working properly anymore and needs to be repaired. There are several fixes to this problem, some as simple as refilling the refrigerant or more extensive repairs.
3. Weak Airflow From Your Vents
If not much air is coming through the vents, this means that your AC unit’s compressor is possibly failing, or that your air conditioner ducts need a cleaning. Debris, dust and pet hair build up in your vents over time, weakening the air flow and reducing the air quality in your home.
4. Strange Noises
Your AC unit is manufactured to run as quietly as possible. If you hear strange sounds coming out of your unit, such as a grating, squealing or grinding sound, this is a definite sign that your AC needs repair. A hissing noise could mean that you have leaky ducts that are disrupting the airflow in your system and cause freezing of the indoor evaporator. Buzzing might mean that the problem is electrical, which puts both your AC unit and your home at risk of a fire. Any banging sounds usually mean that there is something loose inside the unit.
If you hear any noise coming out of your AC, you need to call a technician. Any sounds indicate that there is something wrong with your unit and if you do not address this issue, your unit will break down and lead to more serious repairs in the future.
5. Moisture Where None Should be Present
Do you have any pools of water around your AC unit? This possibly means that you have a blocked or broken drain tube, which disposes of the condensation. It’s important that you repair this, as the moisture and water can lead to mold growth.
Have a lot of water dripping inside your AC unit? That means trouble. If your drip pan is full, this might mean that you have melted ice inside your unit, which can severely damage it. Another bit problem is the sound of ice chunks falling. If you notice excess moisture or hear the sound of ice falling, then shut off the unit and contact a technician as quickly as possible.

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How to Get Your AC Ready for Summer

With summer on the way, it’s time to make sure your air conditioner is in top shape. Neglecting it could mean your high summer electricity bills will be even higher than necessary. Here are the steps you need to take to make sure you spend as little as possible on summer air conditioning.

Put in fresh filters

Minimal air conditioner use during the winter might have meant you got out of the habit of regularly changing your air filter. Start the air conditioning season with a brand new air filter to ensure maximum air flow. If your filter is clogged, it’s making your air conditioner run longer and use more energy. Write down the date your filter needs to be replaced, and strictly follow the replacement schedule until the end of air conditioning season.

Take care of your outdoor condenser unit

Falling leaves and other winter debris have likely accumulated on or around your condenser during the winter. With the power disconnected to ensure the fan doesn’t suddenly turn on and injure you, be sure all of this debris is cleared away. Trim any surrounding bushes or plants to make sure your AC condenser has a couple of feet of breathing room. If you have no plants around it, planting bushes nearby can help provide shade that will keep it cool and running more efficiently.

Make sure your AC’s vents aren’t blocked

If you have ceiling vents, this will be easy, but make sure no hanging decorations or large furniture are blocking your air flow. For floor or window vents, be sure you haven’t moved any furniture or other items in front of them. In addition to making sure the space directly in front of the vent is clear, you’ll also need to make sure there is nothing blocking the air from circulating around the room. Also make sure your vents are clean — dirty vents are no better than vents with a couch blocking them.

Install a programmable thermostat

Turning the temperature up by five degrees while you’re at work during the day could cut your electricity use by 5 percent. You can try doing this by hand, but there will be many days where you forget to turn up the temperature before you leave or come home to a miserably hot house. A programmable thermostat will make the adjustments for you to save energy during the day and make sure your home is comfortable when you return.

Schedule an AC tune-up

An annual AC tune-up can help restore your air conditioner to peak performance. Much like going without oil changes or maintenance over time, not maintaining your AC regularly reduces its performance. When your air conditioner works hard to keep you cool, parts inevitably need to be realigned or cleaned. Each small problem can add several percent to your electricity bill if not corrected. Regular air conditioning tune-ups can also prolong your AC’s life and reduce repairs by detecting small problems before they turn into big ones.

Call Champion Plumbing and Air in San Antonio to schedule an AC tune-up and check out our money saving coupons to get the best deal possible on your air conditioning repair and tune-up. Call today at 210-393-9617.

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Don’t Get Burned by These 3 Hvac Scams

When your furnace breaks in the middle of a cold spell or your air conditioner quits at the height of summer, getting the appliance fixed fast will likely be your top concern. Though most HVAC repair companies operate with integrity, there are a few rotten apples in the barrel. Here are a few HVAC scams to look out for and what you can do to avoid being burned.

Phantom Part Replacement

In this scam, the perpetrator convinces the owner that the unit needs to have a part replaced but doesn’t actually install anything. The person is usually able to get away with this because a homeowner typically does not stand over the technician’s shoulder watching while he or she pretends to fix it. Alternatively, the contractor may overcharge for the part or replace parts that don’t need to be fixed.

To combat this problem, always get a second opinion from another top-rated HVAC company. Ask for a written estimate of the costs associated with the repair, and use the Internet to search for the average price for your area and compare it to the quote to ensure you’re being charged fairly. If the technician says he or she has to install a replacement part, ask for the old one to make sure you got what you paid for.

Black Mold Scam

Another scam that homeowners are often hit with is being told they have black mold in their air ducts that must be cleaned out right away. In some cases, the unscrupulous person may even show the homeowner a picture the individual claims he or she took of the inside of the ducts as “proof”. Often the person will engage in high-pressure sales or scare tactics to get the homeowner to agree to pay hundreds of dollars for air duct cleaning.

While it is possible to have mold growing in your air ducts, it’s not a common problem. No matter what the technician says or how aggressive the person is, decline the service and have your ducts tested by a professional mold tester to verify or dispute the individual’s claims.

Impostors

Another growing problem is scammers who pretend to work for reputable HVAC companies in the area. One person recounts his experience of having a scammer obtain a cell phone in the business’s name and pretend to be the company when calls were mistakenly routed to him. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) also recently released an advisory about impostors operating in the northwest who would call unsuspecting consumers pretending to be area businesses.

Use the Internet or other resources such as the BBB to look up a company’s official phone number to avoid mistakenly calling an impostor. Be wary of unsolicited phone calls, especially if you’ve never done business with the company previously.

HVAC technicians must have a license to operate, which a scammer is unlikely to have. Ask for licensing information and either call your state licensing board or visit the state’s verification site to check that the license is valid.

Most HVAC contractors are legitimate businesses who only want to help customers. If you think you’re getting scammed, contact a reputable company like Champion Plumbing and Air for a second opinion.

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