Bellaire Air Conditioning

Ask the contractor for their Texas HVAC license number and verify it on the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) website. Technicians who handle refrigerants should have EPA Section 608 certification—ask to see that too. Request certificates of insurance for general liability and any workers’ compensation (Texas does not require employers to carry workers’ comp, so verify coverage or a waiver). Check for local registration or trade permits required by the City of Houston, and look up complaints or reviews on TDLR, the Better Business Bureau, and local review sites.

A good contractor will perform a load calculation and provide a written, itemized estimate that lists equipment model and efficiency, labor, permit fees, disposal of the old unit, and any ductwork or electrical work. In Houston most air conditioning replacements require a city mechanical permit and an inspection—your contractor should pull the permit and schedule inspections. Ask about manufacturer and installer warranties (get terms in writing), what is covered by labor vs parts, and whether start-up and performance testing are included. Also ask if the quoted equipment meets current federal and state efficiency requirements and whether any local utility rebates or tax incentives may apply.

Proper sizing and installation are critical in Houston’s heat and humidity. Ask the contractor to perform a Manual J load calculation (not a rule-of-thumb) and to size ductwork and equipment accordingly. Proper airflow, refrigerant charge, correct condensate drainage, insulation, and a well-placed outdoor unit affect humidity control and efficiency. Require a documented startup report showing temperature split, refrigerant charge, airflow, and controls testing. Also confirm recommended maintenance (annual tune-up and regular filter changes, typically every 1–3 months) to preserve performance in a humid climate.