Category: HVAC Upgrades

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AC Heating HVAC HVAC Upgrades

Invest in Your Company’s Success with an Improved HVAC System

If you own a business, you understand the importance of productivity. In regards to that, your employees’ health and safety should be a priority too. In order to ensure both priorities, invest in an effective HVAC system. It will keep a perfect temperature inside your business which will create a comfortable environment for you and your employees. If you want to see your company’s success increase, Ellis AC can offer you an improved HVAC system.

The Unbearable Summer Heat 

Texas is known for the extreme heat. The average temperature during the summer months runs between 81 degrees to 98 degrees. The last thing you want to do is stay outdoors for longer than you have to. Your business building is an escape from the heat…or at least it should be. Since you and your employees will spend most of the days inside your building, you want it to be as comfortable as possible. 

Increase Productivity Levels

It is a proven fact that people that work in a comfortable environment make fewer mistakes. You can increase your business’s productivity levels with an air conditioning unit that works properly. A comfortably cool office also increases your employees’ concentration levels. They won’t be wasting time complaining or stressing out about how hot the office is. Recent studies have shown that employees waste a minimum of one hour on the clock due to heat. Employees try to avoid work when sitting in their seats when they have an overheated workspace. Give your office and employees energy with an improved HVAC system.

Improve Your Employee’s Health

When your employees have good health, they take less sick days and the medical expenses are lower. Ventilation systems remove the stale unclean air indoors and replace it with fresh, clean outdoor air. This dilutes and displaces germs and pollutants in the air. It also expels bacteria, moisture, and unpleasant odors. A number of health problems can arise with improper ventilation such as: 

  • Headaches
  • Allergies
  • Rashes
  • Asthma
  • Sinusitis

Avoid these problems by getting in touch with Ellis AC!

Create a Comfortable Atmosphere for Customers

You want your business space to be comfortable for your customers, as much as for your employees. When customers enjoy coming into your space, you can expect them to come more often without hesitation. You don’t want them to dread going to a humid and musty space to do business with you. Having an uncomfortable environment can also negatively affect your brand image. Don’t sabotage your marketing with improper air conditioning. 

Team Up with Ellis AC 

Let’s invest in your company’s success by encouraging productivity and your employees’ health with an improved HVAC system. Our team has been installing, repairing, replacing, and maintaining HVAC systems since 1975. We service the entire Dallas-Fort Worth area, and we are only call away. We carry a large fleet; our trucks are always ready to roll and our helicopters are on standby. If there is ever an emergency, you can count on us! Get in touch with us today to learn more about the different services we offer.

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AC Heating HVAC HVAC Upgrades

How to Choose an HVAC Repair and Maintenance Company

When your air conditioner or heating system suddenly stops working, you don’t want to waste time finding a company to fix your home’s unit. The process of picking a reliable HVAC repair company doesn’t have to be complicated if you search smart. Decide what services you need and then structure your search.

Here are a few factors to consider when deciding which HVAC company is right for you:

Referrals

A reputable company that successfully serves local homeowners will have loyal customers and many referrals. Many people write reviews about businesses they like on social media and refer them to friends. HVAC companies that are dependable and professional during an installation, repair, or maintenance project will have positive reviews. A quick internet search will give you information about the quality of their work. 

Don’t forget to make use of your friends and family, too. Ask them if there’s an HVAC company they like. Make sure the work they contracted is comparable to the work you need to have done, and that the company executed it well.

AC Certifications and Licenses

Ask contractors to show you copies of their certifications and current licenses. Most HVAC companies list their license numbers on their websites as well. Reputable companies also have reliable HVAC technicians who are NATE-certified, and these specialists maintain trust by implementing proper procedures to ensure professional results throughout HVAC projects.

Experience

HVAC repairs require precision. The slightest miscalculations can affect performance, reliability, and efficiency. The best way to avoid costly problems is by hiring a company with proven results and stellar reviews. A business that has a solid reputation normally has highly experienced technicians who fully understand how to tackle HVAC tasks that involve new and old equipment. Experienced technicians should always be considered during advanced maintenance and repair jobs because the procedures that trained specialists implement are cost-effective.

Obtain Estimates in Writing

If you’re experiencing problems with your HVAC system or need new equipment make sure you get your estimates in writing. If you need a new heating or cooling system, a specialist may take measurements of your home and consider its insulation, windows and ductwork. Obtain all bids in writing and make certain they’re itemized and include details such as warranties.

Obtain a Written Proposal

After you choose your HVAC contractor, ask the company to provide you with a written proposal. You both need to review and sign before work begins. A proposal specifies costs, job schedules, model numbers, warranty information, payment schedules, and other details that will protect you should a problem arise. If a contractor does not want to provide a written estimate or proposal, choose a different company.

Call Ellis AC for Professional HVAC Services

The experienced HVAC technicians at Ellis AC are always happy to help. We offer stellar HVAC maintenance, repairs, and replacements at prices you can afford. Our team values the satisfaction of our clients above all else, and we’ll tell you everything you need to know to get the most out of your HVAC system. Call or visit our website for a free quote on our top-notch HVAC services today!

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Heating HVAC HVAC Upgrades Tips and Advice

Get Smart: Benefits of Modern Programmable Thermostats

Programmable thermostats do have the potential to save the homeowner money, but they can also cost more. The secret to success is the way in which you use them. It’s imperative that you educate yourself so that you are able to effectively save energy (and money) by correctly using a programmable thermostat.

According to Energy Star, about 45% of a home’s energy is utilized for heating and cooling (that averages about $2,100-$2,500 annually). Unfortunately, a large portion of that goes to heating or cooling unoccupied spaces. You also don’t need to heat or cool your home as much when you are sleeping. For every 1 degree Fahrenheit you turn your thermostat down, you will use 1% less energy. That means if you reduce your heating by 10 degrees at night, you will use 10% less energy. 

It’s Smart For A Reason

Ten years ago, programmable thermostats were the latest trend, but with advances in technology, smart thermostats will be a better choice for your home. For example, a smart thermostat learns your temperature habits over time and adjusts accordingly, while a programmable thermostat only allows you to schedule temperature changes for specific days and times. For hot and cold natured people alike, a smart thermostat will begin to automatically change your temperature over time as it learns your daily habits and preferences, which will keep extra cash in your pocket. Unfortunately, your existing programmable thermostat doesn’t have the same capabilities and prevents you from making temperature adjustments while you’re away from home.

Convenience of Adjusting From Anywhere

WiFi compatibility is one of the most convenient and sought after features in a smart thermostat. In-home temperature control is at your fingertips from nearly anywhere in the world with the simple download and installation of a corresponding app on your phone. Did you forget to bump up the temperature of the air conditioner before leaving for vacation? A smart thermostat has you covered from any location with an Internet connection.

Reduces Energy Costs

As new technology develops in the heating and cooling industry, older thermostats are less accurate and simply cannot compete with their modern counterparts. Unlike older programmable thermostats, smart thermostats have the ability to automatically adjust the temperature based on the surrounding temperature, which results in substantial savings on your in-home energy bills. Lastly, it tracks your past energy usage and provides reports for any time period you select. The reports enable you to identify where you can cut costs on future energy bills. Smart thermostats are a great addition to any home, and they can make your life much easier.

HVAC Maintenance and Repairs With Ellis AC

If you need HVAC maintenance, repairs, or replacements, Ellis AC can help. Our team of licensed HVAC technicians will quickly diagnose and repair any issues with your system, and we’ll tell you everything you need to know about keeping your system healthy. Call or visit our website today for more information or a free quote on our top-notch HVAC repairs and maintenance. We look forward to serving you!

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Heating HVAC HVAC Upgrades Tips and Advice

Signs That It’s Almost Time to Replace Your HVAC System

How do you know if it’s time?

If your existing heating or cooling system is over ten years old, it’s an indication that you need to get a new one. Check out these five warning signs that it’s time for HVAC replacement.

Repair Costs Are Higher Than The Price of a New System

Older HVAC systems require more extensive repairs—and it’s a sad fact that most homeowners have to deal with. If you need your HVAC system repaired for the cost that’s almost half or higher than a new system, forget about it! It’s best to replace your system completely to save more money in your pocket.

Soaring Energy Bills

If you haven’t had any major changes in your local energy cost, then your current bills should be relatively similar to the previous months. But if your bills have ballooned with no concrete explanation, it could be a sign of worn-out parts and inefficient HVAC equipment. Damaged and older systems have to work longer and harder to meet your comfort requirements, and replacement is a smart solution.

It feels hot indoors

Your old cooling system is struggling to keep a consistent and comfortable temperature indoors. When you’re feeling less comfortable indoors, it generally means that your HVAC system isn’t powerful enough to supply the required temperature.

Your heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old

Consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR label. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency units can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs.

Your home has humidity problems

Poor equipment operation, inadequate equipment, and leaky ductwork can cause the air to be too dry in the winter or too humid in the summer.

Your heating or cooling system is noisy

You could have an undersized duct system, a problem with the indoor coil of your cooling equipment, or other components that may be failing causing undue stress on other equipment components.

Unpleasant odors

Strange or unpleasant smells coming from your HVAC unit or your vents? Odors can be caused by a variety of problems, such as mold and mildew growth due to excess moisture inside the unit or refrigerant leaks.

Tripped circuit breaker

If your HVAC system trips the circuit breaker once, it may not be any cause for alarm. But if it happens repeatedly, you may have a system that is showing signs of wear. A small repair may be able to help, but it likely won’t last long and your whole system will soon need to be replaced.

Ellis AC

Whether you’re running the furnace in winter, or cranking up the air conditioning unit in summer, there is always a chance that your indoor air quality, energy bills, and even your health could be affected by your old HVAC unit To find out more about our services, or to get started on your own system, don’t hesitate to contact us right away!

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AC Heating HVAC HVAC Upgrades Tips and Advice

All About Air Purification Systems

Clean air and a great HVAC system are extremely important, and both should work hand in hand! Your HVAC already has an air filter, but how clean does it really make your air? Is a normal HVAC air filter effective in removing everything from the air that enters your home? If so, why should you have a separate air purification system for your HVAC?

Until recently, indoor air quality wasn’t a big concern for most people. Yet this benign neglect could put our health at risk. According to the federal Environmental Protection Agency, the air inside can be at minimum 2 to 5 times more polluted than outside.

It’s not only smog that threatens the safety of indoor air, it’s also mold, bacteria, and viruses. Now, with the pandemic raging around the world, it’s even more important for business owners and homeowners to do everything they can to ensure healthy indoor air within their spaces.

That’s a good reason to consider new technology that can improve indoor air quality, including an HVAC air purifier and air filtration system.

Why not just use a filter?

The pre-installed HVAC Air filter has one major disadvantage: It was designed to prevent collection of dust on the HVAC’s internal moving components and filter all incoming air to a certain degree. Beyond this, this mesh air filter cannot improve the quality or hygiene of air within your house.

While removal of dust from the home environment is ideal to prevent dust allergies and diseases such as hay fever that arise from these allergies, it is vital that your HVAC air purification system also have a filter to clean other microscopic contaminants which may lead to other diseases.

Why use an HVAC purification system? 

Here’s a list of what will be missing from your home when you install a good HVAC air purification system:

Dust mites – While a normal air filter can take care of dust mites, air purification systems do the job more thoroughly!

Bacteria and Viruses – air purification systems are designed to trap all microscopic organisms such as bacteria and viruses thus leading to cleaner, pure air.

Smoke – If you’re a smoker or you have a family member who smokes in your home, it can be detrimental to your health to inhale this smoke. An HVAC air purification system neutralizes all types of smoke – from cigarette smoke to fireplace smoke!

Odors – An air purification system helps to get rid of all odors from trash cans, stoves or even rotting fruit on your kitchen counter!

Pet Dander – Having a pet that sheds hair lowers IAQ, which is why you need an air purification system to remove pet dander from your living space.

Call Ellis AC and purify your air

An HVAC professional like those at Ellis AC can help you determine when your filters need replacing, based on your equipment and your air quality challenges. Ellis AC experts can also help you select an HVAC air purifier that is right for your home or business.

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Heating HVAC HVAC Upgrades Tips and Advice

Energy-Efficient Tips for Cold Weather Months

As temperatures drop, keeping your home warm while saving on energy costs is essential. By implementing smart strategies, you can maintain comfort, reduce your energy bills, and lower your environmental impact. Here are practical energy-efficient tips to help you stay cozy during the colder months.

Seal Air Leaks to Stop Drafts

Drafty windows and doors can let precious heat escape, forcing your heating system to work harder. Inspect windows, doors, and other potential leak points for gaps. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these areas and keep cold air out. This simple fix can significantly improve comfort and reduce heating expenses.

Insulate Your Home for Better Heat Retention

Proper insulation is crucial for keeping your home warm and energy-efficient. Check your attic, walls, and floors to ensure they are adequately insulated. Adding insulation in under-insulated areas prevents heat loss, reduces energy consumption, and enhances overall comfort.

Maintain Your Heating System for Maximum Efficiency

Regular maintenance of your heating system is key to ensuring it operates efficiently. Replace air filters monthly to improve airflow and schedule professional inspections to address any issues. A well-maintained system not only saves energy but also extends the lifespan of your equipment.

Install a Programmable Thermostat for Smarter Heating

A programmable thermostat allows you to set your home’s temperature according to your schedule. Lower the heat while you’re away or asleep, and raise it when you’re home. This simple adjustment can result in significant energy savings without sacrificing comfort.

Optimize Window Treatments to Trap Heat

Make the most of natural sunlight during the day by opening curtains on south-facing windows to let in warmth. At night, close curtains to trap the heat inside and block out the cold. Insulated or thermal curtains provide an added layer of energy efficiency.

Lower Water Heater Settings to Save Energy

Your water heater is one of the largest energy consumers in your home. Set it to 120°F to save energy without sacrificing comfort. Additionally, insulating the water heater and pipes can reduce heat loss and lower your energy bills.

Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Warm Air

Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer! Set them to rotate clockwise at a low speed during the winter months. This helps push warm air that naturally rises back down into the room, improving comfort and reducing the load on your heating system.

Stay Warm While Saving Energy

By following these energy-efficient tips, you can create a cozy home environment while keeping your energy usage under control. Small adjustments like sealing air leaks, maintaining your heating system, and using a programmable thermostat can make a big difference in both comfort and cost.

Need Professional Help? Contact Ellis Air Conditioning and Heating

At Ellis Air Conditioning and Heating, we specialize in energy-efficient solutions to keep your home warm and your energy bills low. Whether you need system maintenance, an upgrade, or expert advice, our technicians are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment.

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Heating HVAC HVAC Upgrades Tips and Advice

How to Shop for a New Furnace

Your furnace is the main component of your HVAC system that keeps you warm. Air conditioning lowers your indoor air temperature when it’s too hot outside, and your furnace does the opposite. If you’re on the market for a new furnace, there are some things you need to consider before you make a purchase. Your furnace is a big investment, so make sure you’re getting the right one for your home. Know What You’re Looking For Not all furnaces are created equally. Your home’s size, location, layout, and insulation are all factors that can change the kind of furnace you’ll need to help you keep your home warm and comfortable. Before you go looking for your new furnace, consider problems you might have had with the last one you owned. Were there any rooms you had trouble controlling the temperature of? Did the furnace cost too much on your electric bill? Fixing these issues might mean investing in a more expensive furnace, but it’s better to get more out of a higher quality product than to settle for something cheaper. Have goals in mind for your new furnace before you start shopping and try to find a furnace that meets your needs.

Find The Right Type Of Furnace

There are four main types of furnaces on the market, and they all come with their own benefits and drawbacks. 

The first type of furnace is a natural gas furnace, which is one of the most economical options on the market. These furnaces have also become much more efficient over the years, with the average efficiency rising from 65% to 98%. Nearly half og the country uses natural gas furnaces in their homes. 

Oil furnaces, a type of furnace most common in the northeast parts of the US, are about 25% cheaper than natural gas furnaces. They might be a more affordable option, but oil furnaces aren’t the best choice for the environment. The average oil furnace has an efficiency of 80%-90%. 

An electric furnace is a better alternative for the environment, and they come at lower upfront costs than other furnaces. Electric furnaces could go for half of the price of a gas furnace. They also last up to ten years longer on average. Unfortunately, the electricity is going to have a higher monthly cost than a gas furnace.

If gas and oil aren’t easy resources to come by in your area, you might have to get a propane furnace. Propane is an oil and gas byproduct that can also be used as a source of energy, and it powers about 10% of homes in the US.

Other Considerations

One of the most important things to consider when looking for a new furnace is size. Make sure you’re getting a furnace that can effectively heat every room in your home without overconsuming energy and driving your gas or electric bill up. 

You should also take a good look at customer reviews of any furnace you’re thinking about buying. It’s best to find out about common problems with the system before you purchase it, so you can either steer clear or know what to expect.

Your climate and location should also be a consideration while you’re furnace shopping. How many months out of the year will you be using your furnace, and what resources are readily available in your area? 

Quality HVAC Services With Ellis AC

Ellis AC offers HVAC maintenance, repairs, and replacements with top-notch service at prices you can afford. Your satisfaction is always our top priority, so call or visit our website for a free quote on our stellar HVAC services today!

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AC Heating HVAC HVAC Upgrades

Eco-Friendly HVAC Solutions for Your Home

Eco-Friendly HVAC Advice for Your Home

Your HVAC system could be the highest energy consumer in your home. HVAC systems also release carbon emissions into the air, and some common HVAC refrigerants aren’t great for the environment either. Whether you’re heating or cooling your home, a few simple habits can help you save money and do your part for the environment. Here are some eco-friendly changes you can make to the way you use your HVAC system. 

Energy Efficient Air Conditioning Tips

When you’re using a room, turn the overhead fan on. Fans cause a cooling windchill when they spin counterclockwise, which fights heat and helps disperse air from your AC system. Be careful not to leave the fan on when you’re not in the room, or else you’ll end up wasting money. You can also invest in blackout curtains and keep them closed during the day. They can help block the sun’s heat from your home and keep cool air from escaping. 

High Efficiency Heating Tips

Keep your home warmer by taking advantage of the natural sunlight. Open your curtains and let the sun shine through your windows, giving your home some natural heat and helping your HVAC use less energy. You can also prevent heat from escaping your home by sealing any air leaks. Use weather stripping to cover any gaps or leaks on your windows and doors to keep your heat where you want it and reduce the burden on your HVAC system.

How Regular Maintenance can Help

Regular HVAC maintenance is an essential part of keeping your system as energy efficient as possible. When something is wrong with your HVAC system, it’ll use more energy and work harder to cool your home. If your electric bill suddenly spikes when you aren’t using more energy than usual, this could be the case. Be sure to keep up with regular maintenance like cleaning your air ducts and changing your filter. For great professional HVAC maintenance at affordable prices, call Ellis AC and schedule your appointment.

Other Ways to Use Less Energy

You can save energy and money around the house in other ways as well. You could consider investing in a smart thermostat to schedule your heating and cooling and turn off when you’re not home. Try to unplug appliances when you’re not using them, since plugs still suck energy from your sockets when the device is turned off. 

Quality HVAC Maintenance and Repairs with Ellis AC

Regular maintenance and quality repairs can help you save money on your electric bill and add years to your HVAC system’s lifespan. Ellis AC offers HVAC maintenance, replacements and repairs at affordable prices, and the satisfaction of our clients is always our top priority. We’re dedicated to giving you friendly, helpful service and quality repairs that last. We always take the time to explain what we’re doing and explain any questions you may have. We’re proud to help our area with affordable, top-notch HVAC services. Call or visit our website for more information or a free quote today!

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AC HVAC HVAC Upgrades Tips and Advice

Why is Your Air Conditioning Running All the Time?

Knowing how much AC is too much can be a challenge. There are normal explanations for an overactive air conditioning system, like when it’s hotter outside or when your thermostat is set too low. Still, an air conditioner that runs all the time can spike your electric bill and it might be a sign of a bigger issue with your HVAC system as a whole. Here’s everything you need to know about why your air conditioning might be running all the time.

Normal Causes

Before assuming something is wrong with your air conditioning, think about the very normal reasons this may be happening. Air conditioning typically runs more frequently during the spring and summer months when the difference between your thermostat and the outdoor temperature is at its highest. This causes the system to run for longer periods of time to reach your desired indoor temperature. However, you should still be able to hear your system turn off and on.

When it Becomes a Problem

There are some indicators that your AC is running too often. If you literally never hear your air conditioning turn off, this isn’t normal. Your AC should be turning off and on throughout the day, even if it’s running more often. 

If your electric bill spikes, your air conditioning might be using more electricity than normal to cool your home. This can indicate a problem in the system that makes it less energy efficient.

Lastly, if your system is running all the time but still isn’t cooling your home to meet the thermostat temperature, you should contact an HVAC repair team right away.

Reasons Your AC Might be Running All the Time

One possible cause of this problem is poor airflow. This can be caused by a dirty filter, blocked or closed vents, a poor motor, or leaks in the ductwork. You can test this by holding your hand to a vent. If you feel a weak stream of cold air, start by changing your filter and checking your vents for any blockages. If that doesn’t work, you should call an HVAC professional to repair your system.

Another cause could be a refrigerant leak. Refrigerants aren’t supposed to run out, so if your refrigerant is low it’s most likely a leak. An HVAC professional can fix a refrigerant leak for you.

Lastly, a constantly running AC system could be a symptom of an old HVAC system that needs to be replaced. The average HVAC system lasts approximately 15 years with regular maintenance. If your system is over ten years old and has to work harder and run longer to cool your home, it might be time to get a replacement.

HVAC Maintenance and Repairs With Ellis AC

Whether you need HVAC maintenance, repairs, or a replacement, Ellis AC can help. Our experienced team of HVAC technicians are dedicated to giving you great customer service and affordable repairs that last. Call or visit our website to learn more about our residential and commercial HVAC services today!

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AC Heating HVAC HVAC Upgrades Tips and Advice

HVAC Maintenance to Improve Asthma Symptoms

Indoor air quality is an important part of keeping your family healthy. Poor air quality can worsen allergies, weaken your immune system, and make respiratory illnesses like asthma worse. Treatment plans and regular doctor visits are key for keeping asthma at bay, but HVAC improvements can help reduce symptoms of the disorder. If anyone in your family has asthma or similar health issues, here are a few things you can do to adjust your indoor air quality and improve symptoms.

Change and Upgrade Your Filter

Air filters are a part of your HVAC system designed to filter pollutants like pollen, dust, dander and pet fur out of the air before it gets released into your home. You should check on your filter at least once a month with a visual inspection. Hold the filter up to the light. If you can’t see through the filter, it’s time to replace it. Air filter quality is measured with MERV ratings. Anything with a MERV rating of 9-16 can filter out much smaller pollutants than lower rated filters, and might be better for the people with asthma in your home.

Adjust Humidity Levels

High humidity is a common asthma trigger. You can reduce your humidity by opening windows, moving indoor plants outside, turning on the fan when you shower, or investing in a smart thermometer. Smart thermometers usually display the humidity and the temperature, and some will allow you to adjust your indoor humidity. The summer months are typically when your indoor humidity will spike, and indoor humidity is usually the lowest during fall and winter.

Increase Your Home’s Airflow

Stagnant air is another common asthma trigger, which is why ventilation is great for improving asthma symptoms. Try opening windows or keeping fans running throughout the home. The exhaust fan in your kitchen is another way to keep air flowing in your kitchen. Airflow is especially important if you’ve made any recent renovations to the home, since strong fumes and dust can worsen asthma symptoms. 

Avoid Strong Air Fresheners

Air fresheners are a great way to keep your home smelling nice and fresh, but they can cause problems for people with asthma. Not only can strong scents make symptoms worse, but the smell of air fresheners masks other important smells. For example, you could miss a problem with your HVAC system because you didn’t notice it was emitting a smell right away. It’s best to catch and repair HVAC issues right away, or else they could cause bigger problems and worsen asthma symptoms. Try to avoid air fresheners, or only get ones that don’t have a very strong smell.

HVAC Maintenance and Repairs with Ellis AC

If you’re trying to improve your indoor air quality, Ellis AC can help. We offer top-notch HVAC maintenance, repairs, and replacements with high client satisfaction, all at a reasonable price. Our experienced HVAC technicians are dedicated to helping you improve your health by improving your air quality. Call or visit our website for a free quote today!