Excel Air

In Texas, ask the contractor for their Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor license number and verify it on the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) website. Technicians who handle refrigerant should also have EPA Section 608 certification. Request proof of general liability insurance and ask about workers’ compensation coverage or how they handle on‑site injuries. Check local city or county registration if you live in an incorporated area, and review references, online reviews, and complaint records before hiring.

Most HVAC installations, replacements, and major repairs in Houston and surrounding Harris County require permits and inspections to ensure work meets current building and mechanical codes. Permit requirements and processes vary by city or county, so confirm that the contractor will obtain the necessary permits and schedule inspections. Proper permitting protects you, helps ensure code compliance, and may be required by your homeowner insurance or when selling the home.

Decide based on the unit’s age, repair history, refrigerant type, and efficiency. If the system is older, needs frequent costly repairs, or uses phased‑out refrigerant (e.g., older R‑22 systems), replacement is often more cost‑effective. Have a contractor perform a load calculation (Manual J) to size a replacement properly; correct sizing and ductwork balance extend system life and comfort. In Houston’s hot, humid climate, well‑maintained central systems typically last about 10–15 years; heavy use, poor maintenance, or undersized equipment can shorten that. Get multiple estimates that include expected energy savings and lifetime operating costs before deciding.