Texas’s HVAC & AC Frequently Asked Questions, Answered

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It refers to the system that controls the temperature and air quality in your home. An HVAC system typically consists of an air handler unit located indoors and an exterior condenser unit. The air handler circulates air throughout your home, while the condenser unit releases heat or cool air, depending on the season.

Air conditioning works by using a refrigerant cycle to absorb heat from inside your home and transfer it outdoors. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

• Warm air from your home is drawn into the air handler unit.
• The evaporator coil inside the air handler absorbs heat from the air, causing it to cool down.
• A refrigerant circulating through the evaporator coil absorbs the heat from the air.
• The refrigerant then travels to the condenser unit located outside.
• The condenser unit releases the heat absorbed by the refrigerant into the outdoor air.
• The cooled refrigerant returns to the evaporator coil, and the cycle repeats.

There are several types of heating systems used in conjunction with HVAC. Common options include furnaces, heat pumps, and electric heating elements.

• Furnaces: Furnaces burn natural gas, propane, or oil to generate heat that is then distributed throughout your home through the ductwork.
• Heat pumps: Heat pumps act like reverse air conditioners, absorbing heat from the outside air and transferring it indoors to warm your home. In moderate climates, they are a more energy-efficient option than traditional electric furnaces.
• Electric heating elements: Electric heating elements can be used in furnaces or standalone space heaters to generate heat directly through electricity.

Most air conditioning filters should be changed once a month, especially during peak usage months (April-September in Texas). However, the frequency may depend on:

• Air quality: If you have pets or allergies, you may need to change your filter more often.
• Number of occupants: Homes with more people generate more dust and require more frequent filter changes.
• Local environment: Dusty or high-pollen areas may necessitate more frequent changes.

We encourage you to inspect your air filter regularly and replace it when it appears clogged or dirty. A clean air filter helps your AC unit operate efficiently and improves indoor air quality.

There are several reasons why your AC might not be cooling your home properly. Some common causes may include:

• Dirty air filter: A clogged air filter restricts airflow, reducing the system’s ability to cool your home.
• Low refrigerant levels: Refrigerant leaks can lead to insufficient cooling.
• Frozen evaporator coil: This can be caused by a dirty air filter, low refrigerant levels, or restricted airflow.
• Faulty thermostat: An incorrect thermostat setting or a malfunctioning thermostat can prevent your AC from reaching the desired temperature.
• Blocked ducts: Blocked or leaky ducts can impede airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.

If your AC isn’t cooling your home effectively, schedule a service appointment with Houk AC today. Early detection and repair can save you money on energy bills and prevent more serious damage down the line.

While you can certainly try some basic troubleshooting steps like checking the thermostat or changing the air filter, it’s best to leave more complex repairs to a professional HVAC technician. 

Trying to fix your AC yourself can sometimes lead to more problems than it solves, especially if you’re not familiar with the inner workings of these systems. It’s always better to be safe than sorry and call in a pro to get the job done right the first time.

The lifespan of an air conditioning unit can vary quite a bit depending on a number of factors, including the brand, model, how well it’s maintained, and even the local climate. Generally speaking, well-maintained AC units can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. 

However, with proper care and regular maintenance, some units can even last longer. Think of it like a car—if you change the oil, rotate the tires, and keep it clean, it’ll last longer. The same goes for your AC!

There are a few telltale signs that your air conditioner might be nearing the end of its lifespan. If you notice any of these, it might be time to start thinking about a replacement:

• High energy bills: If your energy bills have been skyrocketing, it could be a sign that your AC is working overtime to keep your home cool.
• Frequent repairs: If you’re constantly calling in a technician to fix your AC, it might be more cost-effective to replace it.
• Age: As we mentioned earlier, most well-maintained AC units last 10-15 years. If your unit is approaching that age, it’s worth considering a replacement.
• Strange noises: If your AC is making unusual noises, like rattling or banging, it could be a sign of a serious problem.
• Weak or uneven cooling: If your home isn’t cooling evenly or if the cooling is noticeably weaker than it used to be, it might be time for a new unit.

Heat pumps can be a bit more finicky than traditional HVAC systems, and they often require more regular maintenance. Here’s why:

• Complex components: Heat pumps have more moving parts than furnaces, which can increase the likelihood of breakdowns.
• Reversible operation: Because heat pumps can both heat and cool your home, they’re subjected to more wear and tear than systems that only do one or the other.
• Outdoor components: A heat pump’s outdoor unit is exposed to the elements, which can lead to corrosion and other damage.

Regular maintenance, including annual inspections and cleaning, can help keep your heat pump running smoothly and efficiently.

While it’s always a good idea to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your AC unit annually, there are a few things you can do at home to keep it clean and running efficiently. Here’s a basic tutorial:

1. Turn off the power: Before you start cleaning, make sure to turn off the power on your AC unit in the breaker box.
2. Remove the outdoor unit cover: If your outdoor unit has a cover, remove it.
3. Clean the coils: Use a garden hose to gently rinse away any dirt, debris, or leaves from the condenser coils. Avoid using high pressure, as this can damage the coils.
4. Clean the drain pan: The drain pan is located underneath the indoor unit. Remove it and clean it out with a mild detergent and water.
5. Check the air filter: Replace the air filter if it’s dirty or clogged.
6. Inspect the ductwork: If you have access to the ductwork, check for any leaks or obstructions.
7. Replace the battery in your thermostat: A weak battery can cause your thermostat to malfunction.

By following these simple steps, you can help keep your air conditioning unit running smoothly and efficiently.