Here are a few things you can check:

Do they have heat in the home?
Do they have hot water?
Are all their appliances working properly?
Are their pipes, sprinkler system and faucets protected against freezing?
Is their phone operational?
Do they have the phone number of someone they can call for minor emergencies? Yours?

Please don’t wait until something tragic happens. Take a few minutes to help a neighbor. It’s well worth your time.

There are many safe ways to cut costs. The use of moonlighters and handymen lacking professional industry accreditation is not one of them. While it’s true that moonlighters can often perform satisfactory work, you take risks when hiring one.

By nature, moonlighters lack specialty trade licensing, do not carry workers compensation insurance for employees, and liability insurance. Usually, they cannot permit the work they perform because they are operating illegally.

If a handyman makes a mistake, such as the unlicensed plumber who accidentally burnt down a home when trying to “sweat a line” inside a wall, he is unlikely to have insurance to cover the loss. You may be stuck with the deductible and if your property valuation is not up to date, you may not be able to fully replace your home and possessions. Plus, if you file a claim against your homeowner insurance, you will probably face higher premiums going forward.

If the work performed is part of an insurance claim, check with the insurer before work begins to see if they require work to be performed by a licensed contractor and properly permitted. You do not want to discover a requirement for permits to ensure the work complies with building codes after the fact.

When uninsured moonlighters or handymen injure themselves while working on your property, you are legally responsible. You might be liable for medical expenses, for compensation if the individual cannot work, and for pain and suffering.

Typically, work by moonlighters and handymen is not warrantied. If the handyman fixed a symptom and not the problem, or performed slipshod work, you may have no recourse (and may not even be able to find the handyman).

Also, be careful who you allow in your home. During a sting operation to identify unlicensed contractors, some of the suspects charged in the sting had drugs on their person. One had an outstanding warrant for battery.

Professional, Licensed, Insured Contractors Meet Higher Standards

Quality, licensed contractors have a stake in your community. They carry appropriate levels and types of insurance. They invest in training, certifications, permits, and proper tools for the work. They perform background checks on employees. They stand behind their work. Professional service contractors exist to serve. That includes meeting your budget… but safely and reputably.

(For more information on how higher efficiency equipment can save you more money, please see our previous post here.)

Houston Metro Residents should contact us about applying this tax credit to new HVAC equipment. Outside Houston contact your local HVAC contractors.

Residential Tax Credit Details

For qualified improvements, homeowners may be able to claim tax credits equal to 30% of the installed costs (up to $1,500).

• Furnace to qualify 95% AFUE
• Boiler to qualify 90% AFUE
• A/C to qualify 16 SEER + 13 EER
• Heat Pump same as A/C plus HSPF 9
• Water Heater energy factor .8 (tankless)

Please ask your comfort adviser for details on qualifying equipment.

• The new tax credits are retroactive to January 1, 2009, and expire on December 31, 2010. The $1,500 limit is for all improvements made during the two year term, not $1500 each year.

• Per-Appliance Caps Removed – Homeowners may use the entire $1,500 tax credit limit on a single qualifying improvement. The previous per-appliance caps that limited the homeowner to just $150 for a high efficiency furnace or $300 for a high efficiency central air conditioner or heat pump have been removed.

• Lifetime Limit Removed – Homeowners that previously claimed tax credits in 2006 or 2007 are eligible for the full $1,500 limit.

• Expanded Geothermal Tax Credits – Homeowners who install geothermal heat pump systems may be able to claim up to 30% of the installed costs in tax credits in the year the system is placed into service. The $2,000 tax credit limit has been removed. The geothermal tax credit has a longer term, from January 1, 2009 and expires December 31, 2016.

• Consumers should be aware that the $1,500 limit applies to many types of energy efficient home improvements, including windows and doors, roofing shingles, and insulation. You can use the $1500 on just HVAC improvements or on a combination of above home improvements.

Frequently Asked Questions About the New Tax Credits

Can a homeowner claim $1500 in tax credits for improvements made in 2009 and again for improvements made in 2010?
No. Taxpayers may only be eligible for a total of $1500 in tax credits for improvements made in the combined two year period of 2009 and 2010.

Can a homeowner use the entire $1500 limit as a credit toward the installation of one appliance?
Yes. A homeowner may use the entire $1500 in tax credits for installing a single appliance, such as a qualified furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, or hot water heater.

What happens if the 30% of the installed costs is less than $1500?
The homeowner can “bank” the the remaining available tax credit for other qualified improvements. Any single installation that costs more than $5000 will instantly reach the $1500 limit.

Does the tax credit apply to the cost of the equipment or equipment plus labor?
The tax credit applies to the installed costs of the qualified equipment, which includes labor.

How will a taxpayer claim the credit and receive their money?
In the past, the IRS has directed taxpayers to use Form 5695, Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit. Taxpayers are not required to file anything more than the form, but are instructed to keep records of their installation.

What’s the difference between a tax credit and a tax deduction?
As a tax credit applies against the taxpayers’ liability. A tax deduction applies against a taxpayer’s income, lowering the adjusted gross income and possibly moving the taxpayer to a lower tax bracket. Tax credits have a greater benefit to a taxpayer.
With a tax credit, if the taxpayer owes $2000, in taxes, their liability is reduced to $500. If they owe nothing, they can expect a $1500 refund.

What if the homeowners already claimed $500 in tax credits in 2006 or 2007?
The “lifetime caps” that used to be in place have been removed. Any previous claims do not count against the current $1500 tax credit limit.

Can a homeowner claim the credit for improvements to a second home?
No. The tax credit is only available for improvement to the taxpayer’s primary residence.

Can a small business that operates out of a townhouse and installs residential equipment in a commercial setting claim the credit?
No. The tax credit may only be claimed by taxpayers on their personal income taxes for improvements to their primary residence.

What other types of energy efficiency improvements qualify for the tax credits?
Homeowners may be able to qualify for the tax credits if they make qualified improvements to: windows and doors including skylights, storm windows and storm doors; roofing including metal and asphalt roofs; and insulation. All of these improvements qualify, but homeowner may only claim $1500 in total for any improvements.

Will every homeowner definitely qualify for the tax credit?
No. Each taxpayer’s situation is different. Please consult with a tax professional if you have questions regarding your tax situation in regards to these new credits.

It’s hard to find good news for your wallet these days, but these new tax credit changes can help you keep your cool in terms of both comfort and savings!

But the Financial DOOM & GLOOM in the News Got You Down?

LET US BAIL YOU OUT!

Save 12.5% on a New Air Conditioning System, RIGHT NOW!

That’s right! We’re easing the strain on your wallet by offering a significant discount on all new central air conditioner installations. Same goes for heat pumps, air handlers, even gas furnaces.

**UPDATE!** Take advantage of this offer before it ends, and we’ll also include a new digital thermostat with your system at no extra charge!

Don’t Wait! This Sale Ends in 2 Weeks

Contact Us Today and tell us you need a bailout package.

Energy Savings Too!

The technology in today’s heating and cooling equipment makes for highly efficient energy use. The Trane units we sell are the industry leaders in efficiency. You will enjoy added savings on your monthly utility bills. The average savings are 30% and can go as high as 60%. That adds up to a lot of money, every year.

What Credit Crisis?

We have two financing providers should you need to make a purchase on credit. Both are still actively taking finance applications and approval rates are normal.

Weathering the Financial Storm

At Clear the Air we are well positioned to ride out the credit crunch and any oncoming recession. As a leading central A/C dealer and contractor in the Metro Houston market we have excellent purchase agreements with our suppliers and can ensure our products will continue going out.

We will always be the company that is here to service your home comfort system and continue to service manufacturer warranties, as well as back our installation guarantees.

Take advantage of this Bailout Sale now. By the time the dust settles in the stock markets this sale will be over.

Give us a call at (281) 992-7866 or click to our contact page and send an email.

Note: With passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, homeowners may be able to claim tax credits equal to 30% of the installed costs (up to $1,500) if you upgrade to more energy-efficient HVAC equipment. For more information on these HVAC tax credits, click here.

So how old is your A/C system?

In 2006, a federal regulation mandated that central cooling systems had to have a minimum S.E.E.R. (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) rating of 13. Up to that point, the minimum rating had been 10. So what does that mean to you? Basically, the higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the central air conditioning unit and the less electricity you’ll need to cool your home. Even 6 year old systems are considered grossly inefficient by today’s energy efficiency standards.

According to Consumer Reports, “A central air conditioning unit rated at a 13 SEER uses up to 30 percent less electricity than a 10 SEER system. With higher energy costs predicted in many parts of the country, consumers will have that payback on the unit much quicker with less electricity being used.” Considering that going from, say, a 10 S.E.E.R. system to something like a 16 S.E.E.R. could save you an average of 50-60% on your electric bills, a new high-efficiency system can pay for itself a lot more quickly than you might think.

Also, a new system is going to be quieter, as well as simply make your home more comfortable. And finally, a new high-efficiency cooling system is going to add significantly to your home’s resale value.

You worked hard for your money all last year. If you are anticipating a tax refund, consider making an investment in your family’s comfort and your home’s value.

The following is a clip from the CBS Early Show:

The EPA offers this advice:

“Know the symptoms of CO poisoning. At moderate levels, you or your family can get severe headaches, become dizzy, mentally confused, nauseated, or faint. You can even die if these levels persist for a long time. Low levels can cause shortness of breath, mild nausea, and mild headaches, and may have longer term effects on your health. Since many of these symptoms are similar to those of the flu, food poisoning, or other illnesses, you may not think that CO poisoning could be the cause.”

(http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/coftsht.html)

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has an excellent section on Carbon Monoxide questions and answers:

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/466.html

Finally, the Center for Disease Control offers these potentially life-saving tips:

• Do have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil, or coal burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year.
• Do install a battery-operated CO detector in your home and check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. If the detector sounds leave your home immediately and call 911.
• Do seek prompt medical attention if you suspect CO poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, or nauseous.
• Don’t use a generator, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window.
• Don’t burn anything in a stove or fireplace that isn’t vented.
• Don’t heat your house with a gas oven.

(http://www.cdc.gov/co/guidelines.htm)

You can view our printable coupons here or use the links below to go right to them.

• $500 Off complete Trane Systems
• 10% Off Service and Repairs
• Free Thermostat with a 3 Year Savings Club Membership
• $5 Off a One Year Savings Club Membership

Remember, updating your central heating and cooling systems are also a long term investment that will save you money on utility bills.

The Trane systems we sell are the industry leaders in energy efficiency.

But the Financial DOOM & GLOOM in the News Got You Down?

LET US BAIL YOU OUT!

Save 12.5% on a New Air Conditioning System, RIGHT NOW!

That’s right! We’re easing the strain on your wallet by offering a significant discount on all new central air conditioner installations. Same goes for heat pumps, air handlers, even gas furnaces.

Don’t Wait! This Sale Ends in 2 Weeks

Contact Us Today and tell us you need a bailout package.

Energy Savings Too!

The technology in today’s heating and cooling equipment makes for highly efficient energy use. The Trane units we sell are the industry leaders in efficiency. You will enjoy added savings on your monthly utility bills. The average savings are 30% and can go as high as 60%. That adds up to a lot of money, every year.

What Credit Crisis?

We have two financing providers should you need to make a purchase on credit. Both are still actively taking finance applications and approval rates are normal.

Weathering the Financial Storm

At Clear the Air we are well positioned to ride out the credit crunch and any oncoming recession. As a leading central A/C dealer and contractor in the Metro Houston market we have excellent purchase agreements with our suppliers and can ensure our products will continue going out.

We will always be the company that is here to service your home comfort system and continue to service manufacturer warranties, as well as back our installation guarantees.

Take advantage of this Bailout Sale now. By the time the dust settles in the stock markets this sale will be over.

Give us a call at (281) 992-7866 or click to our contact page and send an email.

After You’ve Spoken to Your Insurance Company About A/C Damage, Contact Us

Now that we are all in the midst of recovering after Hurricane Ike, and the damage it left here in the Houston area, we thought it would be prudent to offer up information on how to take care of your central A/C unit. Being that the compressor unit is located outdoors yours may have sustained some damage from the storm. This blog post should help you to access the damage and take steps to minimize further problems after electricity service is restored.

We realize that it would be nice to have your A/C running to keep your home cool but before you do so you need to check it first before you cause more damage that could increase costs. Granted it may be your insurance company footing the repair bill, or part of it, you still want to avoid creating more problems that could increase the time frame before your A/C can be up and running again.

This from the Texas Insurance Department;

Q. Can I make repairs to my property immediately?

A. Generally, you should make temporary repairs if necessary to protect your property from further damage. Do not make permanent repairs until an adjuster has inspected the damage. Your policy covers the cost of necessary temporary repairs, so save your receipts for materials and labor. You may wish to take pictures of the damage before making temporary repairs.

Whether or not your A/C unit is covered by your insurance company will depend on your specific policy. Ask your insurance company.

We’ve posted more insurance information here.

Assessing Your A/C for Damage

Before restarting your central air conditioning system you want to check these things;

• Is there obvious damage from falling trees or other wind blown objects?
• Was the A/C unit submerged in flood water?
• Vents and cooling fan is clear of debris
• No burnt electrical smoke damage
• Refrigerant & electrical lines are intact

Obvious Damage Due to Flooding or Debris

To assess if your central air unit or heat pump had been submerged by flooding you may see obvious signs on the unit itself or along the side of your house. The high water mark will likely have left a dirt stain on your exterior walls. You can gauge the depth of water from that and determine if the unit was in water. The A/C unit itself may have a skim of mud over it as well.

If your unit was submerged you should have it inspected and cleaned by your HVAC service company before turning it back on. Internal systems coated in dirt may not work their best, the cooling coils will loose efficiency and the electronic systems inside may short out if turned on.

If the unit had been hit by falling trees or tree limbs or other large objects blown by the wind or carried by floodwaters then you should just call your service people before attempting to turn it on.

The Rest of Your Central Air System

If your home experienced flooding and flood water came inside then you may need to check on your furnace and/or air handler. If flooding had touched these pieces of equipment you should have them inspected by an HVAC contractor. Water may have shorted out electronics or be causing corrosion in crucial parts.

No Obvious Damage Visible

Now if your machine seems fine, is free of debris, and had not been struck by anything or in the path of direct flooding you might consider turning it on to test it. Cross your fingers though! And do a thorough check again once it’s on. Does the cooling fan sound right? Put you nose near the unit and try to smell for signs of electrical shorting or smoke. After it’s been running for a while check it again to be sure and continue to keep an eye on it.

If you’re weary of it then have it checked out by a professional. If all still seems fine but your just not sure you should probably turn it off at night while sleeping since you can’t be monitoring it. With massive power outages there is risk of fires after power comes back. Please be careful.

More Resources

This Home Inspector is giving some advice on repairs after Ike.

Center Point Energy posts a map of progress of electricity restoration efforts here.

The Houston Chronicle has a great page about cleaning up tree debris. They also have one about protecting your home from power surges when the electricity comes back on.

The Houstonist is posting info and links daily in their Morning Roundup about how things are shaping up during the hurricane recovery.

US Government Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has info about cleaning up flood water after a hurricane.

The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) has lots of great info about dealing with damage and filing insurance claims. They’ve created a Hurricane Ike Consumer Resource Page with links to lots of information, agencies, safety tips, etc.

More info from TDI;

• What to do after a flood and staying safe
• Tree Trimming Safety Tips after a Hurricane
• Insurance Claim Information for Homeowners Impacted by Hurricane Ike
• Home Owners Bill of Rights and Insurance

Replacing just one part of this system could cost you thousands so it’s really important to take a good look at it. This article will just provide an overview of what to be aware of, you should of course have a professional home inspector take a look at the property you are considering buying. They’ll go over all the homes structural, electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling systems and provide a report listing any deficiencies that need immediate attention as well as those that may need addressing in the near future.

Having an inspector look at these things is a must, your mortgage lender will likely insist on one anyways. This guide will just point out a few basics to look out for. Frank Schulte-Ladbeck, a Houston based home inspector has some more info on inspecting Air Conditioning systems here.

• How old are the HVAC units (furnace, a/c, heat pump)? Old units may mean more maintenance issues or energy efficiency limitations.
• How do the fans and motors sound? And are fan blades in good shape?
• Are the air filters clean? Air there filters in place keeping dust out of the system?
• How does wiring entering and leaving units look?
• Is the exterior central A/C unit, or heat pump, raised off the ground at least 3 inches?
• Does the furnace burn a nice blue flame?

Should the inspection report reveal potential problems then having an HVAC contractor, like us, give recommendations and price quotes is a good idea. You can use this information when negotiating a purchase price.

Do take note of the age of the system. An older unit in good shape, and obviously well maintained, may still last for years to come. But replacing it may be a long term cost savings due to the increased energy efficiency of modern a/c units. In a case like that you likely won’t have much negotiation room in the homes price.

Should the units be older, maintenance a little questionable, some obvious immediate repairs, needed, etc. Then replacement costs could factor into your purchase price on the property.

Happy home hunting.