All Star A/C, Plumbing & Electrical

Yes. Air conditioning and refrigeration contractors and technicians who perform installation, repair, or replacement work in Texas must be registered or licensed through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). You can verify a contractor’s license and complaint history on the TDLR website by name or license number. Also ask for proof of general liability insurance, written estimates, references, and confirm that the contractor will obtain any required local permits and inspections (many cities, including Houston, require permits for system replacements and major HVAC work).

Licensed contractors should use a residential load calculation (commonly a Manual J) that accounts for square footage, ceiling height, insulation, window area and orientation, occupancy, and local climate. Proper sizing matters especially in hot, humid Houston: an oversized unit will short-cycle and fail to remove humidity effectively, while an undersized unit won’t keep the house comfortable. Ductwork condition and airflow (Manual D considerations) also affect performance, so have ducts inspected and sealed as part of the replacement process.

For Houston’s hot, humid climate, most contractors recommend at least annual maintenance for each system—ideally a spring tune‑up for cooling and a fall check for heating. Routine maintenance typically includes changing or inspecting filters (every 1–3 months depending on use), cleaning coils and condensate drains, checking refrigerant levels and electrical connections, testing blower and airflow, lubricating moving parts, and verifying thermostat operation. Regular service improves efficiency, reduces breakdowns, and documents system condition; consider a written maintenance plan or service agreement for priority visits. Note that refrigerant handling must follow federal EPA rules and some older refrigerants (like R-22) are phased out and may be costly to service.