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How to Choose the Right HVAC Company

Looking for a new HVAC company can be difficult. There are so many out there all with the same promises and claims. Knowing how to spot the reliable companies from the unreliable companies will make a huge difference.

While many homeowners check for years of service or customer testimonies, those aren’t the only markers of a company’s trustworthiness and quality. You should be looking for things like reviews, credentials and home evaluations to determine whether or not you should hire a company.

For reliable service that checks all of the boxes, contact Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating at 469-240-5618.

Continue reading for information on how to choose the right HVAC company.

Know What You Need

Before you even begin to call companies asking for estimates, you should think about what you need first. Write down the answers to these questions:

What service do you require (repair, maintenance, replacement, etc.)?
If you need a repair, what is the issue? (making a strange noise, leaking, smells weird, etc.)
What is the brand and model of your cooling and heating system?
Where are your cooling and heating systems located?
What is the maintenance and repair history of your system?

You may also want to consider what kind of services you may need in the future. For example, it may be important to you that the company offers 24/7 emergency services. Make sure you write down these kinds of additional services you are interested in.

Writing down these answers and communicating them to the technician will help you to quickly determine if they know what they are doing. Once you have all of these answers, you can start calling companies and communicating your exact cooling or heating repair needs.

Look at Reviews

Reading reviews is one of the best ways that you can gauge the quality and service of an HVAC company. Be sure to avoid reviews and testimonies listed on the website itself. Instead, check websites like Yelp or Google for honest reviews.

The best place to look for information on a company is the Better Business Bureau (BBB). When you look at a company’s profile on BBB, you will notice three things: BBB rating and accreditation, customer reviews and customer complaints. First, you should look at the BBB rating. Companies with a B rating or higher are often excellent. You should also check to make sure that it is a BBB accredited business.

Next, you should look at customer reviews. The reviews on BBB may be more objective and honest than the ones you may find on Google or Yelp. Be sure to read both five star and one star reviews. In most cases, you can easily pick out the customers who are making objective observations from those taking their anger out on the business.

Last, take a look at the customer complaints. The Better Business Bureau does not only act as a review and rating platform, they also help customers to file official complaints against businesses. All of the complaints are public, which helps you to see what customers complain about the most.

Doing all of this can help you narrow down your choices quite a bit.

Check Credentials

When it comes to searching for an HVAC company, credentials are very important. You should make sure that the company you are researching has the proper licensing and insurance. In the state of Texas, HVAC technicians must have a contractors license specifically in heating and cooling. Not all companies may list this information on their website, so be sure to call and ask.

Companies should also have insurance credentials. This is to protect both the company and yourself. For example, if a technician happens to get hurt on the job or damages your property the insurance can help to cover those costs. This saves you time and money, so be sure to verify that the company you are researching has proper insurance.

Home Evaluation

When you call an HVAC company for an estimate, they should offer to complete a home evaluation first. If they don’t offer to do this, ask them if they can complete one. If they respond by saying that they don’t need to complete a home evaluation or inspection then you should find a different contractor.

The purpose of a home evaluation is to get all of the information on your system that they need. If you receive an estimate without an evaluation, you may end up paying much more than you originally expected.

Get Estimates and a Written Proposal

Once you have received a home evaluation you can start getting estimates. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest offer, it’s typically best to go for one that is somewhere in the middle. The middling offer tends to be the most honest offer. You can also ask if the company has any coupons or promos going on at the moment to help you save money.

When you are satisfied with the estimate, be sure to ask for a written proposal. The proposal should have a cost breakdown so you know exactly what you are paying for. You should thoroughly read through the proposal to make sure that you understand the service you are paying for. When all are in agreement, both you and the company should sign it.

HVAC Repair Grand Prairie, TX

For high quality and reliable HVAC Grand Prairie, TX service, you need Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating. With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and 5 stars from customers, you can trust that our team is here for you.

Our certified and licensed technicians can provide you with all kinds of services including emergency, repairs, maintenance and installation. No matter what kind of issue you may be having with your heating and cooling system, you can count on Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating.

To schedule an appointment today, give us a call at 469-240-5618 or contact us online.

Author Bio:
Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock
Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling & Heating is now owned and operated by Sherrie Johnson-Hartsock, with his grandson, Daniel Johnson, a third-generation plumber who is also the Service Manager.

Posted in General

10 Tips For Early Slab Leak Detection

One of the worst things that can happen to a homeowner is a slab leak. A slab leak occurs when a water line breaks below your foundation. This leak often takes weeks or months to even notice, often causing damage during that span of time. Slab leaks are also difficult to locate and repair for many plumbers as it often calls for removing part of the homes foundation.

Detecting a slab leak early is key to avoiding extensive damage such as structural damage and mold or mildew. For slab leak detection services in Desoto, Texas, contact Dial one Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating at 469-518-2809.

Continue reading for ten tips on identifying slab leaks early.

1. Feel for Hotspots on the Floor

If you have wood or tiled floors then you should be able to detect hot spots quite easily. If the slab leak is coming from a hot water pipe then that can cause hot spots. Walk around without shoes or socks on and see if you notice any. If you do happen to notice a hot spot, along with other signs on this list, then you should call a plumber to see if they can detect a slab leak.

2. Check for Decreased Water Pressure

If you have a slab leak then your water pressure will probably decrease. This is because some of the water escapes from the pipes and results in decreased water pressure. Be sure to check all faucets to see if any of them have substantially lower water pressure. It’s also important to take note of which faucets are affected because it may be able to help the plumber locate the slab water leak.

3. Identify Warped Floorboards and Damp Carpets

Water often pools upward from slab leaks. If you start to notice damp floors or unexplainable warped floorboards in the lowest level of your house then you probably have a slab leak. As the water rises, it can cause damage to your floors. Wood floors may not be repairable and carpets may begin to develop mold or mildew. If you do notice these issues, make sure you can a plumber to check it out.

4. Look for Mold or Mildew

You may have the perfect conditions in your home to breed mold or mildew. Water may accumulate on your floors, walls and other parts of your home. The water, in addition to warmth or humidity, can cause mold or mildew to grow. While you may think it should be fairly easy to spot mold. The growth typically happens inside of the walls and then works its way out to the interior of your home. By the time you can actually see the mold, it may have been growing for a while.

5. Carefully Check Next Water Bill

If you check your water bill only to find that it has substantially increased, then you may have a slab leak on your hands. Slab leaks can cause an increase in water usage because so much water is wasted through the leak. The bigger the leak, the more water that is wasted. Be sure to call a plumber to check for any slab leaks if you notice a high water bill.

6. Look for Water Coming From the Walls

While it may sound strange that a slab leak may cause water to come through the walls, it does happen. Slab leaks often result in water traveling upward. This occurs because the water looks for the path of least resistance. Call your plumber right away if you notice water damage or damp spots on your walls.

7. Check Patio for Pooling Water

If you have a patio, lanai or any concrete surface attached to your home, check it for unexplainable pooling water. Slab leaks can also occur under these surfaces or can run out from the slab and up through the patio. You should especially check in cracked or damaged parts. This is a sign that you may have a slab leak nearby.

8. Keep an Eye out for Foundation and Wall Cracks

Slab leaks can cause foundations to shift. This happens because the soil underneath the foundation is being disturbed by the water. When the foundation shifts it can cause cracks in your floor and walls. If you start to notice a crack developing in your wall or floor, most visible in tiled floors, be sure to call for emergency plumbing services right away. This is usually a sign that the slab leak has been left for a long time. If it is left neglected for longer, it could cause further structural damage.

9. Listen for Running Water Sound in Walls

If you put your ear up to the wall when all the faucets in your home are off, do you hear the sound of running water? This is often a sign of regular pipe leaks, but can indicate a slab leak. To be certain that you have a leak, check your water meter. If the water meter is moving, then you have a slab leak somewhere in your home. Be sure to call a plumber so that they can quickly identify it.

10. Identify Whether Your Water Heater is Continuously Running

Sometimes slab leaks are caused by a hot water pipe leakage. If your hot water pipe is leaking, then it will cause your water heater to constantly run while it tries to replenish the hot water the leak is wasting. Be sure to turn all of your running water off and check to see if your water heater is running. Wait an hour and check it again. If it is still running then you should call a plumber to look for a slab leak.

Trustworthy Desoto Plumbing Services

Slab leaks can be immensely frustrating. That’s why it’s so important to have a good plumbing company at your side. Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating has been serving the Desoto, Texas community for over 50 years. Trusted by thousands of residents, Dial One Johnson is ready to help. Our team provides maintenance, repairs and installations for all kinds of heating, cooling and plumbing equipment.

To schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable and qualified technicians, give us a call at 469-518-2809 or contact us online.

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HVAC Tips and FAQs

HVAC systems can get pretty complicated, especially when you begin to think about all the different parts and equipment. It’s common to have questions about how your system works and about how you can improve its operation. Whether you are considering installing a new system or accessory part or you just want to understand your system better, we have the answers.

If you require HVAC Midlothian service, call Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating at 469-518-4211.

Continue reading for tips and answers to your common HVAC questions.

What is the Best Time of Year to Get My HVAC System Serviced?

The best times of year to get your HVAC system serviced are fall and spring. These are the off-seasons for most HVAC companies. Therefore, technicians are less busy and may even offer lower prices. Technicians are also more likely to finish the job in one visit during these months. Whether you are looking for a replacement, repair or maintenance, fall and spring are excellent times to schedule these services.

How Often Should I Replace My Filters?

It is highly recommended that you replace your air filters monthly. A clogged air filter can cause a multitude of problems from poor air quality to total system failure. Be sure to replace all filters, even those directly attached to your system. You can purchase air filters at your local home improvement store and some grocery stores.

What Is a Programmable Thermostat?

A programmable thermostat allows you to set your thermostat at certain temperatures for specific times of day. For example, in the summer you may program your thermostat to be warmer from 9am to 5pm, when you are at work, and then cooler from 5pm to 9am while you are home.

These are excellent ways to save money as you can conserve energy while you are away at home. Many programmable thermostats even allow you to have one temperature schedule for during the week and one for the weekend.

How Does a Heat Pump Work?

A heat pump works by taking in cool air from outside and converting it to hot air utilizing a system of coils and refrigerant. Heat pumps can also convert warm air to cool air during the summer. They are a great way to conserve energy for smaller homes that may not require a large, central HVAC unit.

What Are the Signs that I Need to Replace My HVAC?

It’s important to replace your HVAC system when it’s time. Some of the signs that you need to replace your system are:

Over 15 years old
Requires frequent repairs
Utilizes R-22 refrigerant
Increased energy bills
Encountering safety issues

Heating and AC replacement can be frustrating, time-consuming and expensive. But, doing it sooner than later will save you money and additional frustration.

What Is the Best Humidity Level?

It is highly recommended that you keep your home humidity level between 30% and 50%. Low humidity can cause a sore throat and dry skin. High humidity on the other can cause your home to feel hotter than it actually is and encourages mold and mildew growth. You can purchase a dehumidifier to help regulate these levels.

How Can I Improve Indoor Air Quality?

All it takes to improve your indoor air quality is to take care of your system. Changing your filters regularly, regulating humidity, keeping your home clean, getting your ductwork inspected for pests or debris and scheduling regular maintenance are all ways that you can improve your indoor air quality.

Contact your local HVAC technician to find out how else you can improve your indoor air quality.

What Is the Best Furnace Fuel Type?

There are three different kinds of fuels that furnaces may use: gas, electric and propane. Choosing a furnace fuel type depends on how much you are willing to spend for the system and then for the subsequent monthly energy bills. Gas furnaces are typically more expensive to install, however they cost less on a month-to-month basis as gas is significantly cheaper than electric.

Electric furnaces are the other way around. They cost less to install but are more expensive when it comes to monthly bills. Propane furnaces are typically used by those who live in rural areas and have unstable electrical connections or do not have access to a gas line.

How Can I Tell How Efficient My HVAC System Is?

For furnaces, the efficiency rating is called Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). Most furnaces have an AFUE rating of 80% while high efficiency furnaces have an AFUE rating of 90%. Air conditioners, on the other hand, are rated using Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER).

Standard air conditioners have a SEER of 16. Anything at SEER 18 or higher is considered to be high efficiency. To find the efficiency rating of your HVAC system, all you have to do is look up the model online.

How Do I Clean My HVAC System?

To clean your HVAC system, first make sure that you turn off both your indoor and outdoor unit. You need to create ample physical space for your system. There should be at least two feet of clearance between your system and any objects, landscaping or debris.

Next, you need to clean the system. You can wash it down gently with a hose or wipe it with a wet washcloth. You can also straighten the fins on your outdoor unit using a fin tool, if you feel comfortable.

Trustworthy HVAC Midlothian, Texas Service

For high quality, reliable HVAC service in Midlothian, Texas you need Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating. Our qualified team provides maintenance, repairs, installations and replacements to all kinds of home systems. Whether you need a water heater repaired or your ductwork inspected, we have got you covered. Our team is dedicated to providing only the best service possible, no matter the issue.

To schedule an appointment with the Dial One Johnson team, give us a call at 469-518-4211 or contact us online.

Posted in General

Easy Ways to Reduce Your Heating and Cooling Costs

Have you noticed your monthly energy bills steadily increasing? Or maybe you are hoping to save some money on heating and cooling costs? If that’s the case then you may want to consider implementing a few energy-saving habits.

You don’t have to purchase a brand new, environmentally friendly HVAC system in order to save money on your monthly costs. All you have to do is become more conscious of how you use your heating and cooling systems.

Before you search “heating air conditioning near me” to schedule an HVAC repair or maintenance appointment, give Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Heating and Cooling a call.

While scheduling maintenance is incredibly helpful and can have a tremendous impact on your monthly energy costs, you can implement new habits yourself.

Continue reading for ten easy ways to reduce your heating and cooling costs.

1. Utilize Your Windows

A great way to save money on heating and cooling costs is to use your windows more often. This means properly sealing them to make sure that your hot and cool air doesn’t escape. You should also install curtains or blinds if you do not already have them.

This way, you can open the coverings on the south facing window of your home when the sun is shining brightest during the winter. Or, you can keep them all closed during the summer to keep the heat from coming in through the windows. Learning how to best use your windows can help you save on your monthly energy bills.

2. Block the Chimney

If you have a chimney in your home, you may want to consider blocking it with a chimney cap or other material. Hot and cool air can escape through your chimney, so keeping it closed will help you to conserve energy. You can also install glass doors around the fireplace which make for an easier way to block and unblock your chimney as you need to.

3. Use Ceiling Fans

During hot weather, ceiling fans are an excellent way to cool down a room without touching your thermostat. In the summer you can set your fans to turn counterclockwise for the best cool air circulation. Using a ceiling fan can make a room feel significantly cooler. You can also use your ceiling fan during the winter by setting it to rotate clockwise. This helps to bring warm air down. Either way, running your ceiling fan all day or night is much less expensive than turning up the AC.

4. Keep HVAC Unit Clear

Your HVAC units can function better if they are kept clean and clear. This means that you need to remove any objects or debris within two feet of both your indoor and outdoor units. This allows for better circulation and does not require your HVAC system to work as hard, in turn saving you money.

5. Insulate Ductwork

Installing proper ductwork is an excellent way to lower your monthly energy costs. If you are not sure as to how well your ducts are insulated now, you can call a technician for heating and air conditioning inspection.

Sometimes ductwork can develop leaks or insulation can become worn out which reduces the efficiency of the system. Be sure to install quality insulation so that hot and cool air does not escape.

6. Replace Your Filter

While your air filters may not seem important when it comes to energy costs, they can actually make a big difference in how well your system runs. If your air filters become clogged, the efficiency of your system reduces. Regularly replacing your filter keeps the system running in great shape and improves indoor air quality which keeps costs down.

7. Change Your Thermostat

Adjusting your thermostat can also help you to save money on your heating and cooling costs. For example, turning your HVAC system off when you’re not at home is an excellent way to conserve energy.

You can also install a programmable thermostat so that the temperature automatically changes according to how you have set it. Another way to conserve energy is to turn the heat down during the winter at night and AC up during the summer at night. Talk to your HVAC specialist about ways to conserve energy with a standard or programmable thermostat.

8. Schedule Maintenance

Scheduling regular AC and heating service is the best way to keep your energy costs low. During a maintenance appointment, technicians will complete a variety of tasks designed to improve efficiency. They may lubricate moving parts, clean the units, change your filters, complete inspections and more. Not to mention that your system will also last longer and require fewer, unexpected repairs.

9. Heat and Cool Rooms You Use

Have you ever thought about which rooms you actually use on a daily basis in your home? Maybe you have a guest room or a basement that you rarely use. While the easiest way to choose which rooms you would like to heat and cool is with a whole-house temperature zoning system, there is an easier way to do this.

All you have to do is close the air registers in these rooms. This will make sure that the hot and cool air goes only to the rooms that you actually use, saving you money on energy costs.

10. Install a Dehumidifier

High humidity can make air feel much hotter than it actually is. The same goes for extremely low humidity and colder air. According to the Mayo Clinic, the ideal home humidity level is 30% to 50%.

By installing a dehumidifier or a humidifier you can easily alleviate this problem. There are excellent dehumidifiers that you can attach right to your HVAC system or you can purchase a portable one. Either way, doing this will make your home feel much more comfortable.

Heating and Cooling Services

For high quality, trustworthy “air conditioning and heating repair near me”, you need Dial One Johnson Plumbing, Cooling and Heating. We provide all kinds of services from regular maintenance to whole system installation for heating, cooling and plumbing systems. No matter what kind of issue you may be having, we are ready to help. Our technicians are dedicated to providing only the best customer service and craftsmanship.