Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning

In Texas ask to see the contractor’s registration or license with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and confirm any technicians who handle refrigerant hold EPA 608 certification. Request proof of general liability insurance and ask whether the company carries workers’ compensation (Texas does not require every employer to carry it). Also get written estimates, a clear scope of work, references or online reviews, and confirm the contractor will pull any required City of San Antonio permits and arrange required inspections.

A reputable contractor should perform a Manual J load calculation (and recommend duct design per Manual D) to determine correct equipment size rather than relying on square footage or rule-of-thumb sizing. Proper sizing, correct airflow, sealed/insulated ductwork, and adequate attic insulation matter as much as the unit’s efficiency rating. Ask for the proposed unit’s efficiency rating and estimated operating costs, request documentation of the load calculation, and check for available local rebates (for example through CPS Energy) that may apply to high-efficiency systems.

Because R-22 (Freon) production and import have been phased out, R-22 is increasingly expensive and harder to obtain; for major failures many contractors will recommend replacing the system with a modern unit using current refrigerant (e.g., R-410A or other approved alternatives). Any technician who handles or disposes of refrigerant must be EPA 608 certified and must recover refrigerant per federal rules. A professional contractor should provide a clear repair vs. replace cost comparison, disclose refrigerant availability and long‑term costs, recover and dispose of refrigerant legally, and obtain any required San Antonio permits and inspections for the work.