Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an AC system last in Texas?

The useful service life of a well-maintained air conditioner in Texas is 10-15 years. When we talk about “useful” service life, we’re talking about how long your cooling system can operate as efficiently and powerfully as it is designed to.

Professional maintenance once a year (or twice a year, for a heat pump system), will help ensure this lifespan.

Can any home have central AC?

Yes, absolutely! Now, any home can have central AC, but that doesn’t mean that the traditional central air conditioner–with a large outdoor unit and indoor unit connected by a series of potentially bulky ductwork–is right for every home!

Ask us about ductless air conditioners. These are centralized cooling (and heating) systems, but they do not require ductwork, and the indoor unit can be split up into multiple indoor air handlers that can be mounted up high on the wall, out of the way.

What is an air handler?

An air handler is the the main component of your air conditioner’s indoor unit, that regulates and circulates the air. It contains the blower, cooling elements, filter racks or chambers, and dampers.

In a traditional central air conditioner, this is a large metal box with ductwork connected to it, while in a ductless system they’re much smaller and can work independently of each other.

How often do I need to maintain my AC system?

Professional air conditioner maintenance allows our technicians to comprehensively clean, inspect, and adjust the components that need it within your air conditioner. This helps the system work as efficiently and effectively as possible, for as long as possible.

To guarantee this is the case, we recommend investing in this service once a year, for a traditional central air conditioner. For a heat pump system or ductless system that both cools and heats, this service should be done every 6 months.

How can I save money on my heating bill in Houston?

While we tend to use our heaters relatively briefly here in the Houston area, when we do use them, we want them to work as affordably as possible, right? The best way to ensure you save money on your heating bill is to stay on top of your annual heating maintenance appointments.

Other ways you can boost efficiency and therefore lower your heating bill is by changing the air filter every 1-3 months, having repairs done as soon as you know you need them, and setting the thermostat at a reasonable temperature, which is 68°F according to the Department of Energy.

How often should I change my furnace filter?

Your furnace air filter is designed to keep debris off of the interior components in order to protect your heater. Depending on the type of filter you have in place and the level of contaminants in your home, this filter should be changed every 1-3 months.

When we talk about “contaminants” we are referring to anything from pet hair and dander to household cleaning fumes and cigarette smoke. The more particles in the house, the faster the filter will get clogged up, especially if you don’t have a great indoor air quality solution in place.

How do I know if I need an air purifier?

There are different types of air purifiers. If your home is excessively dusty, household occupants are suffering from allergy and/or asthma symptoms, or their is a musty odor in the home, these are all signs you may benefit from an air purifier. Air purifiers can be installed right into your ductwork to address the whole home!