Searching for a qualified HVAC contractor can pose a challenge, especially if your goal is to balance cost with finding quality equipment and installation. Here are some considerations when assessing an HVAC technician’s qualifications. NATE Certification NATE certification, short for North American Technician Excellence, is awarded by a nonprofit organization. This certification entails rigorous experience- and knowledge-based testing and periodic follow-up training and testing. When you contract a NATE-certified technician, you can trust that you’re working with a skilled and knowledgeable p ..read more

When looking for a new AC unit, you’re going to come across the term “BTU.” Understanding what BTUs are and how they work to cool your home is important when choosing the best unit for your needs. BTU is an abbreviation for British Thermal Unit, a measurement that explains how much heat can be removed from your home within an hour. The BTU rating on AC units is particularly important for homeowners because if you get a model that doesn’t match up with your square footage and cooling needs, it won’t excel at cooling your air. At Totally Cool Heating & Air, we are always happy to help you lo ..read more

Have you noticed water dripping out of your furnace or pooling up around it? A furnace that leaks water is a common issue that only happens for a few different reasons. However, the specific problems that can cause this to happen differ depending on your furnace type. In this article, we’ll show you how to tell what type of furnace you have and also explain issues that can cause furnaces to leak. Determining What Type of Furnace You Have The first step to figuring out why your furnace is leaking water is to determine if you have a conventional unit or a high-efficiency condensing furnace. If y ..read more

When you consider air pollution, your outdoor environment may immediately spring to mind. People often don’t realize that indoor pollutants can also pose a significant threat to well-being and quality of life. We spend much of our time indoors, particularly those who live in colder climates. Smoke, chemicals, mold, pet dander, dust, and even outdoor contaminants circulate inside the walls of your home and workplace, exposing you and other indoor dwellers to a variety of health risks. Here’s what you need to know about the health risks of poor indoor air quality and how to manage them. Types of ..read more

You may be thinking about getting your air conditioner serviced but do not know what it entails. Servicing your cooling system is essential to keeping it working properly. Here is what is included in an AC service visit. What Happens During an AC Service Visit? During an AC service visit, a technician first performs an inspection of your air conditioner to determine if it is working properly. A maintenance specialist checks all mechanical and electrical components for safety and efficiency. A technician checks the condenser and evaporator coils to make sure that airflow is not restricted. The ..read more

When investing in an HVAC system, longevity and reliability should be your top priorities. Though seemingly indestructible during mild times, extreme cold and heat quickly reveal a failing unit. Be proactive with annual maintenance rather than crossing your fingers and hoping to dodge repair bills and discomfort. Skilled HVAC technicians have the tools and know-how to catch minor issues before they snowball. Tune-ups and upgrades will maximize energy efficiency and component lifespans to get the most out of your investment. 1. Improves Indoor Air Quality A professional HVAC inspection clears o ..read more

It’s time to consider mini-split systems as a new cooling option. These alternatives to traditional AC units have been making waves in recent years, offering a host of benefits that not only keep you comfortable but also save you money. Explore the benefits of mini-split systems and how they can make your home environment more enjoyable. What Are Mini-Split Systems? Mini-splits are a type of air conditioner that cools your home differently. Unlike traditional AC units, they do not require ductwork so they will work perfectly in tiny homes, older homes, and add-on spaces. They have two main com ..read more

Your HVAC blower motor controls airflow throughout your entire HVAC system. Without it, your furnace and air conditioner might turn on, but no conditioned air will flow into your living environment. More importantly, the temperature at the interior of your Austin, TX home won’t change at all. To help you get your blower motor problems diagnosed and resolved quickly, the following are five signs that this component has failed or is on its way out. 1. Weak or Unsteady Airflow The first and most noticeable sign of a failed blower motor is the absence of airflow. If your HVAC system runs nonstop b ..read more

When it comes to beating the scorching heat of the Austin Metro Area, a central air conditioning system is a must-have. But with the multitude of options available, how do you determine which one suits your needs and space the best? Below is an informative guide to help you understand the pros and cons of different central air conditioning systems, ensuring you make a well-informed decision tailored to your home’s requirements. 1. Traditional Split Systems: The Classic Choice The traditional split system is a popular choice for many homeowners. Comprised of an indoor and an outdoor unit, tradi ..read more

Sitting on the front porch on a summer day, feeling the breeze and watching the rain fall can be one of the most relaxing experiences. However, if you have allergies, it may not be quite as pleasant. Knowing how summer storms affect your allergies and what you can do to lessen the impact can help you to breathe easier. Thunderstorm Asthma Thunderstorm asthma is a type of attack that happens following a thunderstorm. Anyone who has asthma can experience it, but it is usually an issue for those who have seasonal allergic rhinitis during the spring and summer months. Under normal circumstances, w ..read more