Tulsa Heat and Air Companies

Tulsa Heat and Air Companies

How To Choose A Good Heating Contractor

You rely on your home's heating system to keep your home cozy and warm throughout the winter months, so it's vital to hire a skilled and trustworthy heating contractor when it needs maintenance, repairs or a replacement. Here are some essential qualities to look for in the contractor you hire, so you know you're making a wise choice:

License and Insurance

Reputable HVAC professionals in the Tulsa area will hold a valid mechanical contractor's license with the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board. When you know that a contractor is licensed, you'll have peace of mind that they have relevant industry experience, have passed the state's qualifying exam and posted a bond. Licensed contractors must also have workers' compensation and liability insurance coverage that helps protect you in the event that damage or injuries occur.

Longevity and Good Reputation

A heating contractor who does quality work and provides superior customer service will have a long history in the area, as well as positive reviews and recognition awards from both the HVAC industry and the local community. The best contractors are also members of leading HVAC associations, such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), which allows them to stay current on the latest industry advancements and best practices.

Technician Certifications

A contractor you can trust with your home's comfort equipment insists that their technicians have attained certification from NATE, the independent organization that's the recognized leader in technician skill and knowledge testing and certification. This gives you the assurance that your technician has the training and know-how to properly maintain, repair or replace your heating equipment.

Workmanship Guarantees

Contractors who provide top-notch installation and repair services and are fully confident in their workmanship quality are willing to stand behind it with a written guarantee. When it comes to the reliability of your heating system, choosing such a contractor can let you rest easy knowing that you're in the best of hands.

When you looking for a heating contractor in the Broken Arrow area, contact us at Air Assurance to learn more about our dedication to providing outstanding service and customer care.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC contractors and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-258-2665.

HVAC Technician & Plumber Jobs Tulsa, OK

Air Assurance is hiring - Tulsa, OK

Air Assurance has been serving the Greater Tulsa, OK market for more than 35 years and we’re growing! We are looking for qualified candidates for HVAC Service Technicians, HVAC Installation Technicians, and Journeyman Plumbers. Our services include diagnostic repair, planned annual maintenance, and installation services for residential and commercial clients. You can apply online from this website (see below for link). Great Company, Great Benefits, and Great Community.

AIR CONDITIONING REPAIRS ON ALL MAJOR BRANDS

As NATE-certified technicians, we're trained and knowledgeable in fixing all types of air conditioners in Broken Arrow, OK and the surrounding areas. We can replace filters and inspect your equipment for general wear and tear, too. From rental units to single-family homes to business properties, we can assist you with:

• A/C replacements

• Air conditioning system installations

• Air conditioner repairs

• Equipment upgrades

HEATING SYSTEMS FOR COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES

We're committed to providing you with the latest in heating and cooling technologies. We install and maintain geothermal heating systems, energy-efficient heaters, and smart home thermostats. Our seasonal checkups can help prevent damage to your heating equipment and reduce mid-season failures. You can turn to us for:

• Central and ductless heater installations

• Furnace replacements

• Heater repairs

• Heating system upgrades

Key Qualities to Look For in an HVAC Technician

Hiring an HVAC technician is a task that must be done with care. After all, you are trusting this person to complete repairs, service and/or installations that can affect the safety and comfort of your home and family. So what should you look for as you make that choice? A company that employs HVAC technicians with the following key qualities:

Strong technical and mechanical knowledge and skills

A great HVAC technician will have extensive understanding of and experience with HVAC systems and controls, testing equipment, technical data and troubleshooting procedures, as well as the mechanical skills to repair, install, assemble, disassemble and program these systems as necessary for safe, efficient operations. Look for HVAC technicians that hold licenses and certifications in their field to ensure this level of knowledge and skill.

Excellent communication and customer service skills

Good HVAC technicians must be able to interact smoothly with homeowners and building managers in order to do their jobs effectively. That means having strong listening skills as well as the ability to explain technical/mechanical information in plain language. Additionally, they must be patient in answering clients' questions and concerns, and respectful of those clients and their homes.

Strong knowledge of and compliance with safety standards

HVAC technicians work with a variety of elements that can be dangerous if not handled appropriately, including natural gas, electricity and coolants, among others, so a great HVAC technician will be well trained in and observant of safety standards in all workplace situations.

Motivated to pursue continued training on new systems, technologies and standards

Equipment, technology and standards are always changing, becoming more advanced, efficient and complex every year. A great HVAC technician knows that keeping up-to-date through continued education is essential to maintaining top performance in his or her field.

If you still have questions about what to look for in a good HVAC technician, please feel free to contact Air Assurance, we're always happy to help. Our extensively-trained, highly-skilled and NATE-certified HVAC professionals have been serving homeowners throughout the Broken Arrow area for more than 30 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC technicians and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “OpenClipart-Vectors/Pixabay”

Verifying That an HVAC Company is Reputable

The search for the right HVAC company can be daunting if you don't know what qualifications to look for. Here are some recommendations to help you sort through the competitors and find a reputable company that can provide quality results.

Finding the Right HVAC Company

1. Ask friends and family for recommendations. This is where you start. Ask why your acquaintances are recommending the consultant that they use. Call several of these recommended companies and ask for references. Call the references and ask if jobs were completed in a reasonable time, and if the work was satisfactory.

2. Call the Better Business Bureau. Find out if the company you're interested in has had complaints filed against it, and if so, why. Also consider any good reviews issued by the BBB.

3. Read the online reviews with reservations. Many online sites offer a forum for reviewing a customer's experience with a company. But, bear in mind that some reviewers have an ax to grind, while other, more positive reviews might be posted by someone with an interest in promoting the company more than it deserves.

4. Check out certifications. HVAC industry certifications may be a sign of the company's professionalism. For instance, proclaiming that the company's technicians are NATE- (North American Technician's Excellence) certified signifies the technicians have been rigorously tested and qualified by the highest standards in the industry. Membership in the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) means the company has a stake in maintaining top professional standards.

5. Ask about licensing, bonding, and insurance. Oklahoma HVAC contractors are required to be properly licensed. Often, the contractor must be bonded and insured to qualify for a license. You should be sure your HVAC professional has liability insurance to protect your home in case a worker is injured or damage occurs.

6. Avoid contractors who give estimates over the phone. For the best results, HVAC contractors should always come to your home to assess repairs or installations, and give you a written estimate.

Contact Air Assurance for more information on hiring a reputable HVAC company. We serve Broken Arrow and the surrounding area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “geralt/pixabay”

Look for a Tech With These HVAC Certifications

Choosing an experienced and skilled HVAC contractor to repair, install, and service the HVAC equipment in your home ensures your family's comfort and safety. A reliable contractor not only stays up-to-date on industry standards themselves, they also make sure that every technician they employ has current certifications that demonstrate their knowledge, training and experience. Here are some key HVAC certifications to look for in an technician so you can have peace of mind that your costly and critically important comfort equipment is in good hands.

State Licensing

In Oklahoma, HVAC technicians must be licensed through the Construction Industries Board (CIB). Applicants must pass an in-depth exam and meet the board's strict educational and work experience requirements. The HVAC company they work for should also be licensed and have the state-required surety bond and liability insurance coverage in place. You can verify an HVAC contractor or technician's license right on the CIB's website.

NATE Certification

Reputable HVAC companies insist that their technicians are certified through the industry-leading North American Technician Excellence (NATE). To gain certification through this nonprofit testing organization, technicians have to pass a stringent core exam on their general industry knowledge, along with a specialty exam in their choice of either service or installation.

HVAC Excellence Certification

Another prominent independent testing organization, HVAC Excellence offers certification for technicians at either the professional or master specialist level. Technicians who obtain a professional-level certification have two years of relevant industry experience and have passed a rigorous exam. To achieve master specialist certification, technicians must have three years of practical experience in addition to passing the exam.

EPA 608 Certification

In order to install, repair or service air conditioners or heat pumps that contain refrigerants like R-22 or R-410A, HVAC technicians need to be certified through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to the certification requirements in Section 608 of the EPA's Clean Air Act, technicians must pass core and specialty testing to assess their knowledge on industry best practices for service and refrigerant reclamation.

To learn more about the importance of HVAC certifications, contact the Broken Arrow comfort pros at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC certifications and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “ArtsyBee/pixabay”

Dealing with Pressuring HVAC Salespeople

Buying a new HVAC system for your home brings with it plenty of stresses -- choosing the right size system, understanding efficiency ratings, balancing comfort needs with your purchasing budget. One additional stressor you don't need at this time is a high-pressure HVAC salesperson. Here are some ways to deal with unneeded and unwanted pressure to buy.

• Remember the role of sales — Salespersons are there to add value to the transaction, to inform, educate, and assist you. They are not there to force you into making a purchase before you're ready. If you feel like you are being pressured to buy or commit to a purchase, step away from the transaction.

• Demand the time needed to make a decision — An HVAC system purchase can amount to thousands of dollars. On top of that, you need to understand multiple factors that contribute to home comfort and system efficiency. This takes time, and if an HVAC salesperson isn't willing to give you that time, they do not have your best interest in mind.

• Ask questions until you are satisfied — A pressuring salesperson will not be willing to answer many questions. Yet your HVAC equipment purchase relies on being fully informed about costs, efficiency, operation, and other factors. If your salesperson seems more interested in pushing you to buy rather than giving you what you need to make an informed decision, stop the transaction.

• Avoid falling for emotional appeals — Even HVAC salespersons can make an emotional appeal to a potential purchaser. If someone starts pushing your emotional buttons — doesn't your family deserve to be comfortable? Don't you love them enough to buy this high-cost system? — stop the deal. Pay attention to your own emotions during the negotiation. An emotional reaction to a sales pitch is a good sign you're being manipulated.

For more than 30 years, Air Assurance has been serving the HVAC needs of customers in Tulsa and the surrounding Oklahoma communities. Contact us today for more information on how to deal with a pressuring HVAC salesperson and for a sales experience that respects your time and need to make an informed decision.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “greiss-design/Shutterstock”

What is Great HVAC Customer Service?

Savvy consumers have little patience these days with poor customer service. The HVAC business community realizes this, but we also know that not all HVAC customers are sure what good service in our industry looks like. If you're in the market for HVAC repairs or an installation, here are some things we suggest looking for when it comes to great HVAC customer service.

Prompt First Response

Many HVAC customers are in panic mode when they call or email an HVAC company for service. They need assurance from the moment they place the call or send an email that someone will respond quickly to their emergency. Phone attendants should be patient and courteous, taking down all the information, relaying it to the right person and following up as needed. If the company uses email for service requests, someone should be regularly checking the messages and passing them on. If the company advertises 24/7 service, the customer shouldn't have to wait very long for a response.

Good Communication Skills

A contractor or technician who can't explain why a repair is needed in clear layman's terms — or summarize the scope of an installation in as much detail as the homeowner can handle — won't inspire confidence. Customers deserve a coherent explanation of what's going on with their equipment, along with estimated costs and how long repairs will take. Those purchasing new equipment need to know how conditions in the home impact the efficiency of their systems so they can plan improvements prior to installation.

Skillful Time Management

Technicians should arrive on time, as scheduled, or if there's a delay, should notify the homeowner as soon as possible. If for some reason the job has to be interrupted, the technician should explain why and exactly when the job will be completed.

Good Inventory Control

HVAC companies should maintain proper inventory in their trucks or warehouse so that parts are quickly accessible and delays minimal.

To learn more about what constitutes great HVAC customer service, contact Air Assurance. We've provided award-winning service in the Broken Arrow area since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Lukiyanova Natalia frenta/Shutterstock”

What Certifications Should HVAC Technicians Have?

What Certifications Should HVAC Technicians Have?

Before you hire someone to work on your HVAC equipment, be sure that they have the HVAC technician certifications required by law. Looking for additional industry affiliations translates to an even higher level of competence and knowledge. Considering what’s at stake with your HVAC equipment, it's important to do your homework to find the most qualified technicians in the region.

Legal Requirements

• Licensing. At a minimum, the technician needs to have an active HVAC license from Oklahoma. Applicants must pass a test that measures their knowledge of the components of HVAC equipment. Oklahoma issues separate licenses that allow the technician to work with gas piping and sheet metal.

• Insurance and bonding. An HVAC technician who works with a licensed HVAC contractor is covered by the mandatory requirement for liability insurance and a surety bond that protects their customers from any accident or financial harm from failure to deliver on the contract between the company and the client.

Additional Certifications

Because HVAC equipment is so complex, several industry groups offer HVAC technician certifications that help consumers select professionals who demonstrate advanced knowledge of the industry.

• NATE certification. NATE (North American Technician Excellence) is a nonprofit organization that certifies only the top performing technicians in the HVAC industry. The testing is rigorous and just a small percentage of those who take the tests pass. In order to maintain NATE certification, the technician must complete continuing education credits and retest every two years.It's particularly important to use NATE-certified technicians when you're choosing and installing a new system, since the entire selection, sizing, and installation process will affect your energy costs and comfort for years to come. Contractors who have earned NATE membership follow the most current and stringent recommendations for this crucial process.

• ACCA membership. ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) gives members access to an extensive library of technical resources, along with professional networking. ACCA emphasizes the exploration and execution of energy efficiency and environmental protection within the HVAC industry.

To learn more about HVAC technician certifications, contact Air Assurance, a NATE-certified contractor serving Broken Arrow homeowners since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).Credit/Copyright Attribution: “DeiMosz/Shutterstock”

4 Steps to Expect During a Professional A/C Installation

When you invest in a new air conditioner, it's important to understand the crucial role a quality installation plays in equipment performance, energy efficiency and longevity. To protect your investment and ensure your comfort, make sure the contractor you hire follows these four steps during your A/C installation.

Equipment Sizing

An experienced HVAC contractor will do a detailed load calculation based on Manual J to accurately size the A/C. If this isn't done and the equipment doesn't have enough capacity, it simply can't cool your home sufficiently. If too large an A/C is installed, it will cycle on and off without adequately cooling and dehumidifying the space. Not only does this affect your comfort, it can also lead to excess moisture problems and mold growth.

Ducting Condition

Before your new equipment is installed, a knowledgeable professional performs a duct system inspection. He'll check the air balance to uncover sizing issues, repair any damaged or disconnected sections, then seal the ducts with mastic and wrap them with R-6 insulation. This is vital, because ductwork deficiencies can not only rob you of up to 30 percent of your new A/C's cooling output, they can also compromise your health and safety by allowing combustion fumes and other contaminants into your air supply.

Airflow Rate

Every manufacturer sets an acceptable range of airflow rates for their equipment. Once your A/C is in place, the installer will check whether the rate of flow across the cooling coil is within that range and make any necessary adjustments. If this isn't done, the equipment can't operate at maximum efficiency or cool your home properly.

Refrigerant Charge

A critical step in a professional A/C installation is charging the system with the amount of refrigerant recommended by the manufacturer. If your system is allowed to operate with too high or too low a refrigerant charge, you'll lose out on key benefits, like energy savings, enhanced comfort and many long years of reliable service life.

To learn more about what to expect during a professional A/C installation, contact the Broken Arrow comfort experts at Air Assurance today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Christian Delbert/Shutterstock”

Should You Leave These Heating Equipment Tasks to a Pro?

Taking care of your home's heating system is essential if you want to provide your home with reliable, comfortable heating throughout the winter. This is true whether you use a gas furnace, an electric heat pump or a combustion boiler. As with all HVAC systems, heating equipment maintenance involves a mixture of do-it-yourself steps and professional tasks.

So, how to you know which heating equipment tasks should be left to a professional? Here's a basic explanation:

Do-It-Yourself

• Inspect and change air filters when they get dirty. Make sure to check your filter at least once a month. A clean filter allows for a smooth airflow through your system, keeping damaging dust and debris out of sensitive components. As a result, you'll save money on energy and reduce the chance of breakdowns.

• Seal leaky ducts. If you find loose connections or actual holes or cracks, seal them with duct mastic and metal-backed tape. Then, insulate ducts that run through unconditioned areas, such as your crawlspace or basement.

• Remove obstructions from heating vents and registers. You'll be surprised by how many household objects get shoved atop vents, including rugs, furniture and drapes.

Call a Professional 

• Check ignition and combustion components for fuel-burning furnaces and boilers. All components should be clean, and moving parts should be lubricated.

• With combustion heating systems, your technician should make sure the venting, exhaust and chimney set-up is safe and up to code. Otherwise, you're risking carbon-monoxide poisoning and/or fire.

• Electric wiring and terminals should be assessed for proper connections and operation in heat pumps, furnaces and boiler systems.

• Heat pump systems should be inspected for correct refrigerant level, while indoor and outdoor coils should be cleaned. Airflow should also be checked and adjusted.

• In both furnaces and heat pumps, the condensate drain should be inspected for blockages and cleaned.

For more advice on helpful heating equipment tasks to complete this season, please contact Air Assurance. We serve the Greater Tulsa area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “mushan/Shutterstock”

Customer Service: What Should You Expect From Your HVAC Contractor?

When it comes to servicing your furnace, air conditioning, or other HVAC needs, it's important to know what to expect in terms of customer service when dealing with any HVAC contractor.

Professionalism

When you call an HVAC technician, you should expect a certain level of professionalism. You should be assured that the technician is a non-smoker, background checked, and is drug tested for both your safety and peace-of-mind. The technician should be N.A.T.E. (North American Technician Excellence) certified to prove a certain level of expertise.When he or she arrives, the technician should be prompt. The contractor should be uniformed, clean and should have a proper badge and identification. You should feel secure about letting him or her into your home.

Honesty and Reliability

Your HVAC technician should be honest and trustworthy. He or she should also use the best parts when it comes to installing or repairing your HVAC system. It doesn't help you if your technician uses substandard parts which will cause a breakdown in the future.

Diagnostic Service Calls

If your HVAC system is having problems, it's important that the technician diagnose the problem thoroughly. That means that he or she has the tools needed for the job and enough spare parts on the truck so the problem can be fixed once you give the go ahead. The technician should spend as long as required to figure out the problem, no matter how long it takes. Once the problem has been diagnosed, your technician should explain the problem thoroughly to you without gibberish so that you understand what needs to be fixed. He or she should quote you a firm price for fixing the problem. By going the extra mile, your technician is performing great customer service.

For all your HVAC needs, contact Air Assurance, your experts in heating and cooling in the Tulsa area since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Credit/Copyright Attribution: “iQoncept/Shutterstock”

HVAC Contractor Practices That Should be Dealbreakers

Choosing an HVAC contractor isn't always an easy task. Since you probably don't need regular HVAC work unless you've already subscribed to a maintenance plan, you may be unsure whom to choose, even if several contractors provide great references. What is easy, however, is quickly walking away from any contractors who engage in any of these deal-breaking practices:

1. Making a low-ball offer

Everyone wants to save money and some contractors rely on this to lure unsuspecting customers. If you need a major air conditioning, heating or sewer repair, make sure any quotes reasonably cover a professional spending a few hours at your home, travel time and the parts needed. If someone is offering to do the job for far less than the other contractors, it's likely they're untrained, are planning to cut corners, or will be looking to add on fees after the work has started.

2. Sticking to rules of thumb

Rules of thumb are great for ballpark estimates in a first conversation, but they should be followed up by further examination to make sure your needs are met. Selecting the right size for a furnace or air conditioner, for example, involves much more than a simple square footage calculation. An HVAC contractor trying to sell you something based on a rule of thumb may be trying to rip you off.

3. Giving phone quotes

Phone quotes are inaccurate because rules of thumb estimates don't work. An HVAC contractor needs to see your home to give an accurate final quote. Otherwise, they may just be trying to low-ball you. Think carefully before choosing their quote.

If you need an HVAC contractor you can trust for your repair or installation, contact Air Assurance. We have the solid reputation that comes with satisfying our customers since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

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Why NATE-Certified Technicians Are Different From The Rest

nate certified technicians broken arrow oklahoma tulsa

There are many reasons to choose a NATE-certified technician when looking for assistance with heating, cooling or energy efficiency. NATE stands for North American Technician Excellence, and the NATE certification process ensures that the program's technicians have the skills to do a great job. When you hire someone who is not NATE-certified, you really have no idea about the training or skills of your technician.CertificationNATE-certified technicians not only undergo rigorous training, they must also pass specialized tests to ensure that they have full mastery of their trades. They must also choose a specialty to study more intensively. To ensure that NATE-certified technicians stay up to date with the latest industry technologies, they must retest every five years to stay certified.NATE technicians can specialize in the following areas:

• Air conditioning

• Air distribution

• HVAC efficiency analysis

• Heat pumps

• Gas or oil furnaces

• Hydronics, gas or oil

• Commercial refrigeration

• Light commercial refrigeration

• Ground-source heat pump loop installation

BenefitsWhen you insist on NATE certification, you can be sure of your technician's knowledge and skills. Surveys of homeowners who hire NATE-certified technicians show that most homeowners would hire a NATE technician again, because the job gets done right the first time. In fact, hiring a NATE-certified technician will often save you money in energy costs in the long run.You can also trust the NATE organization itself, because its sole purpose is to certify excellent technicians. The organization is a non-profit, third-party organization, so it is not affiliated with any one HVAC company.To hire a NATE-certified technician in the Broken Arrow area, contact the friendly experts at Air Assurance.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today!     

Insist On NATE Certification -- Because The Job Needs To Be Done Right

When you hire an HVAC technician to work on your home equipment, you want the job done right -- the first time. Choosing a technician with NATE certification will help you to achieve that goal. Here’s why:

About NATE

There are three qualities you need to know about NATE, or North American Technician Excellence. It’s an organization that’s:

• Non-profit

• Third-party

• Independent

Why do these factors matter? Well, it’s the combination of these three attributes that makes NATE the go-to, coveted certification nationwide.

The NATE value

NATE is not motivated by a bottom line; it’s comprised of a panel of experts from across the HVAC industry, including manufacturers, contractors and utility companies; and its sole purpose is to test and certify only those individuals that prove themselves. Other certification programs are often motivated by profit: It’s to their advantage to certify when training individuals on their own equipment. But that’s not what NATE does.

The NATE testing process

In order to qualify for NATE certification, a technician must pass a series of tests. The testing process is rigorous, covering all aspects of the HVAC industry, real-life scenarios, and technological advancements. To maintain certification, technicians must retest every five years.

How NATE helps homeowners

So what does all this mean for you, the homeowner? When you hire a NATE-certified technician, you’ll reap several benefits. In fact, a survey of homeowners who have used a NATE technician reveals these benefits, as they were far more satisfied with their overall experience than homeowners who didn’t use a NATE technician. These homeowners:

• Would choose the same contractor again

• Experienced a higher general customer satisfaction

• Were highly satisfied with the system the technician worked on, in terms of efficiency, comfort, and noise levels

• Required fewer callbacks, because the job was done right the first time

The next time you need high-quality workmanship and want an experience that leaves you with a high sense of customer satisfaction, contact the experts at Air Assurance Heating, Cooling & Air Quality, and ask about our NATE certification. We've proudly served homeowners in the Greater Broken Arrow area for more than 30 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our current promotions and get started today!     

Why NATE Certification Matters When You're Hiring An HVAC Contractor

Your HVAC system is what allows you and your family to feel comfortable in your home each and every day.  When searching for an HVAC contractor to do any kind of work on it -- be it repair work or a major upgrade -- you want to make sure you are working with someone right for the job.  Look for contractors who have NATE certification to find contractors who will be able to help you with your heating and cooling needs.  NATE, North American Technician Excellence, is the only certification program recognized by the entire HVAC industry.  It encompasses many different subsets of knowledge, each with its own test that must be passed.  In order to earn their NATE certification, contractors have to demonstrate that they can apply a vast amount of expertise to real-world situations.NATE certification matters because it means that your contractor will follow a strict set of rules and guidelines.  This is important for any level of work.  Preventive maintenance will leave your system prepared for the upcoming seasons while installations will be sure to be as efficient as possible.  This will help you save in both the short- and long-termCertified contractors will make sure that such problems don't occur so that you don't have to deal with warranty returns, callbacks or other such hassles.To get in touch with contractors that have NATE certification, contact Air Assurance Heating & Air Conditioning.  We can help you with any of your heating and cooling needs, big or small.  We have proudly served Broken Arrow residents for over 30 years.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our current promotions and get started today!      

Eighteen Ways To Get Your Home Ready For Cool Weather

With fall on the horizon for residents of Tulsa, it's time to start thinking about how to get your home ready for the cold weather.  Here are eighteen different ways to stay warm and energy efficient this winter.

• Stop Drafts: Drafts can waste up to 30 percent of your energy. There are various products that can be used to block drafts under doors and windows.

• Change Furnace Filter: Change, or at least check your filter each month. With heavy dirt, comes less airflow, which means higher bills.

• Run Fans in Reverse: Simply switching your fans to run clockwise will make your air warmer.

• Drain Hoses and Air Conditioner Pipes: This prevents dangerous freezing.

• Turn Down Your Water Heater: Lowering the temperature can reduce your water heating costs by 10 percent.

• Install Storm Windows and Doors: This reduces drafts and can increase energy efficiency by 45 percent. Be careful though, the ROI can take years to pay you back.

• Get a Tuneup: A preventive maintenance tuneup by a contractor will ensure that your heating system stays working efficiently, and most important, safely!

• Program Your Thermostat: Set it intelligently, so you aren't paying to warm an empty house.

• Use Plastic Insulation: Covering your windows adds a buffer against drafts.

• Use An Energy Monitor: These inform you when you have been using more energy than usual.

• Use Weatherstripping: This helps prevent air leaks.

• Add Insulation: This is particularly helpful in the attic and basement.

• Insulate Your Pipes: This will help decrease the chance of freezing pipes.

• Seal Ductwork: Up to 30 percent of your conditioned air can leak out of your ducts before it reaches its destination.

• Use Tax Credits to Your Advantage: These can make energy-efficient upgrades for your home more affordable.

• Be Wise When Selecting a Contractor: Hire an Energy Star home comfort contractor who is certified to help you make the right choices for your home.

• Use Alternative Energy Sources: These are often much more energy efficient than traditional methods.

• Upgrade Your Furnace: Newer models can save you up to 50 percent when compared to older models.

For more information on how to prepare your home for winter, contact Air Assurance. We can help you turn these ideas into concrete action.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems) .Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our current promotions and get started today!      

HVAC Quotes: Tips For Reviewing Them To Hire Expert HVAC Service

When you’re in need of HVAC service or repair, you may feel pressured to choose a contractor quickly in order to minimize the discomfort suffered by your family. Unfortunately, rushing such a decision can prove costly over the long term, especially if you don’t take the time to compare quotes from competing HVAC contractors. In what seems like a time of desperation, HVAC service quotes can offer some means of control.In order to make a fair comparison of parts and services, you need to have a basic understanding of your heating and cooling components and the terminology used to refer to their parts, functions and efficiency. For example, it pays to know that the SEER, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio, on older air conditioners is relatively low compared to today's high-efficiency models, and that replacing a 10-year-old system will likely prove more cost effective than attempting to repair it.Of course, the first and perhaps most obvious item Broken Arrow homeowners notice when reviewing HVAC service quotes is pricing. Unfortunately, many Oklahoma residents mistakenly use pricing as their sole point of comparison. This can be misleading for several reasons. For instance, pricing doesn’t always give a clear indication of:

• The quality level of different brands

• Energy-efficiency ratings such as SEER or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE)

• Convenience- and energy-enhancing features such as filter check reminders, thermal expansion valves or R-410A refrigerant

• The long-term implications of manufacturer and contractor warranties

• Eligibility for energy-based credits, incentives and rebates from the manufacturer or at the local, state and federal levels

• What kind of other values does the contractor offer. Anyone can replace boxes, but who takes care of other issues that impact the efficiency and return on investment when installation occurs including duct sizing and sealing

• Most importantly, how is the contractor standing behind your comfort and reliability in the future?

If not clearly indicated, you should also ask for details regarding costs of service versus costs of equipment. Knowing exactly what you are paying for is the best way to make an educated decision. In comparing HVAC service quotes, you have a chance to weed out less-than-reputable companies who might otherwise take advantage of their position as so-called experts.If you’ve spotted discrepancies in your HVAC service quotes, our NATE-certified technicians are here to answer your questions. For more information regarding the service and repair of your HVAC system, contact Air Assurance today!Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our current promotions and get started today!     

Air Assurance's HVAC Contractor Expertise Defined

An HVAC contractor should always be on the cutting edge when it comes to the latest in industry technology and techniques. With quality service being the top priority, it’s important that an HVAC contractor continually train technicians to ensure long-term customer satisfaction on each and every job. That’s why we at Air Assurance are committed to ensuring that our technicians have the necessary knowledge and expertise to properly serve the residents of the Tulsa Metropolitan area.It all begins with inhouse training. Here, our technicians not only have access to comprehensive technical training materials, but they have the direction and supervision of dedicated inhouse training and safety directors. Coordinated training onsite allows us to monitor the progress of our technicians and ensure that they are taking the appropriate measures to improve their knowledge base and perfect hands-on techniques and safety procedures.To ensure that our technicians perform up to industry standards and stay abreast of the latest in HVAC technological advances, we’ve also proudly affiliated ourselves with the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). With members in all 50 states and access to industry experts worldwide, the ACCA provides consultation, training and education in several aspects of the HVAC business. It can also help consumers in their search for the most qualified area contractors.One of the ACCA recommendations for choosing a qualified HVAC contractor is NATE certification. NATE, or North American Technician Excellence, is a third-party non-profit recognized industry-wide for its rigorous examination and certification of qualified HVAC technicians. If your HVAC contractor is using NATE-certified technicians, you can rest assured that they have proven their knowledge and expertise of the most modern heating and cooling systems.Through our inhouse training programs, ACCA affiliation and NATE certification, Air Assurance defines HVAC expertise for the Tulsa Metro area. If you have questions regarding your heating and cooling systems, our highly-trained, NATE-certified technicians are always standing by to serve your needs. For an expert consultation, contact Air Assurance today!Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here. Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.

Broken Arrow Homeowners In Oklahoma Can Avoid Common Air-Conditioner Problems Using These Tips

It’s not uncommon for homeowners to panic when their air conditioner seems to be malfunctioning, especially in the dead heat of a Tulsa, OKlahoma summer. Luckily, many common issues are easily addressed, with most being the direct result of simple, albeit unintentional, neglect.Perhaps the most common issue is a lack of cooling. Often, the cause of this problem is as simple as an improperly programmed thermostat or a thrown circuit breaker.

• Check the thermostat for desired temperature settings and ensure that the cooling system is actually turned on. If everything is as it should be, the next option is to try resetting the thermostat. If this does not correct the issue, a professional assessment is recommended.

• If the culprit is a thrown circuit breaker, resetting the breaker should correct the problem. Of course, if this is a common occurrence, there is likely an underlying electrical issue that needs to be addressed by a professional.

If lack of airflow is the issue:

• Dirty filters can restrict airflow and put a strain on your system in terms of efficiency. If filter replacement doesn’t seem to correct the problem, consult a trained technician.

• If you suspect a frozen indoor coil, try adjusting the thermostat for a few hours to unfreeze the system. If this doesn’t work, contact your HVAC contractor.

Another common complaint is spiking energy costs. This can be the result of several factors, including:

• New appliances

• Extreme summer heat

• Extreme thermostat settings

• Local utility rate increases

If your energy increases can’t be explained away logically, you may be the victim of improper system cycling or some other system malfunction. Of course, the best way to ensure that your system is running properly when you need it most is to maintain a routine preventive maintenance schedule. This allows your technician to evaluate and adjust every aspect of your cooling system, including:

• Proper system cycling

• Thermostat accuracy

• Electrical safety

• Air filter maintenance

• Cleanliness and efficiency of indoor and outdoor coils

• Condensate drains

Last but not least, during extreme temperatures, your system may not be able to keep the temperature as low as it does normally.  This can be due  to several factors:1. Your system may not be sized properly for your comfort.  A professional is needed to do a load calculation on the house to determine the correct size. Maybe your system cooled better in previous years?  Did something change like the loss of a large shade tree or did you replace wood shingles with asphault shingles?  Has your ductwork or insulation been disturbed by remodeling or other services?  Is the system clean?2. Your attic may have inadequate attic ventilation.  With extreme temps comes extreme attic temperatures.  And if your attic can't properly remove the extreme heat, this puts excess heat gain on your home's interior.3. With extreme temperatures come extreme heat on your duct system.  If your ducts are not properly insulated, this can cause your air to "lose it's cool", therefore making your unit run longer and less efficient.4.  What is the level of attic insulation in your home?  If this is not at least 12" you are putting extreme pressure on your system to cool at levels it was probably not designed for.If you’ve been experiencing problems with your air conditioner, don’t wait until the entire system shuts down. Call the trained technicians of Air Assurance today for an expert consultation.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here.Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.