Air Conditioning Maintenance | Heating and Air Conditioning

While the air filter may seem to be a fairly innocuous component of the heating and air conditioning system, its function is essential to keeping dirt off of the coil and out of the system. Dirt and dust can coat the evaporator coil, preventing the system from efficiently, or properly cooling your home. Furthermore, when dust finds its way into the moving parts of the system, it creates friction and contributes to wear and tear on the moving parts. This results in premature and unnecessary failure of your home’s heating and air conditioning system. Changing the air filter is the first step in air conditioning maintenance.

Simply stated, the filter is the first line of defense for your heating and air conditioning system. In addition, the air filter assists in cleaning the air in your home by scrubbing dust, dirt, and pollen from the air. The dirty filter you change each month provides the proof of this.

Beyond dirt entering the system, a dirty air filter also poses the problem of increased resistance and reduced airflow. This in turn causes the heating and air conditioning system to perform poorly, increasing energy usage, and risking damage to a system struggling for air. Not only that, but if the filter is too dirty, it starts to become a source of poor air quality in the home itself.

Homeowner’s occasionally will remove an excessively dirty filter without inserting a new one. While this resolves the low air flow problem, it allows the dust and dirt to build up on your evaporator coil and eventually cause it to fail.

System Maintenance

Routine maintenance such as changing filters, and keeping air returns, outdoor condensers and heat pumps clear of surrounding weeds, shrubs or other objects, can be handled by most homeowners, but other maintenance tasks require professional heating and air conditioning service.

Humidity Control

High humidity leads to more than sticky discomfort and feeling hotter than it actually is. The excess moisture leads to mold and mildew, deterioration of wooden structures and difficulty breathing for those with heart and/or respiratory issues. Modern air conditioners dehumidify as they cool the air in your home. This moisture that is removed from the air is the water that you see draining away.

However, in excessively humid climates the consequential dehumidification that occurs during the air conditioning process may not always be enough to keep the indoor humidity conditions within the recommended 30-50% level.

Excessively hot, humid climates may require a dehumidifier. Even a stand-alone dehumidifier will assist you, though only in the room where located. If you are interested in adding a whole house dehumidifier to your home’s heating and air conditioning system, give us a call.

In addition, it may benefit your home comfort to have a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning professional check your heating and air conditioning system. An improperly functioning system or one that is too large can result in increased humidity in the home.

A recent study determined 50% of homes were fitted with an oversized air conditioner which cools the home quickly. Bigger isn’t always better, especially when it comes to your air conditioning. Furthermore, if you have recently provided a lot of energy upgrades to your home to make it more efficient, your HVAC system may now be oversized for the home, with humidity issues resulting. A Cypress professional can assist you with this problem.

Household Habits Can Contribute to Increased Humidity

Setting the thermostat fan to the “on” position blows air all the time. Through the cracks and crevices in the home’s envelope, vent pipes and unsealed ducts the moisture that your air conditioner removes is returned to the home from outdoor air. Use fans or turn on the dehumidifier to increase your comfort between cycles. Better yet, seal all of those cracks and crevices where air intrudes around doors, windows, pipes and cables, and ensure the fireplace flue is closed.

Use exhaust fans during moisture-producing activities. When cooking, showering or performing other moisture producing activities in the home, use the exhaust fans to remove as much moisture as possible.

When the outdoors are hot and humid, close all windows and doors and don’t ventilate outdoor air to the inside.

Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule service for issues with your heating and air conditioning. When something goes wrong, don’t let faulty equipment affect your home’s comfort. Our technicians can quickly diagnose the problem, and provide the repair you need. Our certified HVAC technicians offer experience and expertise in the provision of comprehensive air conditioning maintenance, heating and air conditioning installation, heating and air conditioning repair in Katy, and we service all major brands. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Variable Speed Motors | Air Conditioning Repair Plano, TX

Today’s best air conditioners use 20% to 40% less energy to produce the same amount of cooling as air conditioners made just 10 years ago. Selecting an energy efficient air conditioner is only one part of the process of a new air conditioning installation. Proper sizing and the quality of installation are essential in determining air conditioner efficiency. An oversized unit will not adequately remove humidity, while an undersized unit will not be able to attain a comfortable temperature on the hottest days, and can result in premature wear, and the need for air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.

A variety of features are available for modern air conditioners today, and one that will greatly increase efficiency and comfort is a variable speed blower motor. The variable speed blower motor moves at the required speed as determined by sensors for precise control of conditioned air.

When you are in need of a new AC system, Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers HVAC systems with variable speed motors for new or replacement installations. Contact us for further information, or to schedule a consultation.

The Advantages of a Variable Speed Furnace

• Air Quality: Variable-speed motors with humidistats allow you to control the humidity levels in your home. For optimal comfort, the relative humidity should be between 30 and 50 percent. The consistent airflow of these motors also improves air filtration for cleaner air.
• Electrical Efficiency: Variable-speed motors consume less electricity than conventional motors, using about one-eighth of the electricity when operating at half speed compared to a conventional motor. Because of the reduced speed when needed, the variable speed motor can outlast a conventional motor, reducing the need for air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.
• Zoning: Variable speed motors and zoned systems complement each other in energy efficiency. Zoned systems enable you to control the temperature in different areas in the home independent of each other. When combined with a variable speed motor that adjusts its output to the speed required, comfort is achieved along with increased energy efficiency, and reduces wear and tear on the system and the consequent need for air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.

How Systems With Variable Speed Motors Work

A variable speed motor runs on a broad range of speeds providing precise control of conditioned airflow. When temperatures are extreme, the motor operates at a higher speed. Whereas, when temperatures are mild, the motor operates at a slower speed for an extended amount of time. Conventional fans run at one speed, consuming a consistently higher rate of electricity than a lower speed would.

Sensors automatically determine the amount of required airflow, saving energy when the variable speed motor operates at a lower speed. If you are interested in a variable speed motor, your existing system may be compatible. Our certified technicians provide HVAC installation, service, maintenance and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.

Unlike single, two or three speed fans which operate at a set speed for each fan speed, a variable speed motor operates from 0 RPM to full speed and anywhere in between. This enables the HVAC system to operate at the precise speed your home requires based on the current conditions.

HVAC systems remove heat and moisture from the air moving through them. When the air conditioning runs, a conventional single speed fan runs at the highest speed all of the time. This results in less moisture being removed from the air. A variable speed motor removes a higher amount of moisture from the air than conventional fans, by operating at a slower speed when the air compressor first kicks in, allowing the humidity to be more efficiently extracted from the air.

As air moves over the coils it is cooled, activating the fan speed to increase, delivering cold, and dehumidified air to your home. A variable speed fan motor will increase your comfort by providing dryer air, and will reduce wear upon the system by operating at a lower speed, resulting in the reduced need for air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.

Humidity affects comfort by making the air temperature feel hotter than it actually is, and promotes the growth of mold and mildew. A variable speed fan motor prevents these issues by limiting the air flow until the moisture is removed from the air. The removed moisture drains out of the drain, rather than ending up in the duct system where mold can grow.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning carries and installs top rated innovative Carrier products, with a wide range of system options and features, including variable speed motors. Cypress’s certified and experienced HVAC technicians provide heating and air conditioning installation, service and maintenance, and heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX. In addition, Cypress’s professionals’ provide emergency services 24/7, providing you with heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX when you need it most.

Spring Air Conditioning Service | Air Conditioning Repair Katy

Providing the pre-season spring air conditioning service that your HVAC system requires ensures it maintains peak operation, extends its life span and reduces the frequency of the need for air conditioning repair in Katy. In other words, annual maintenance on the air conditioning system provides preventative maintenance.

Common problems related to air conditioning failure are a dirty filter, low refrigerant, a malfunctioning fan and a thrown breaker. Most of these breakdowns are common problems that would have been detected during the annual service of an air conditioning tune-up.

A dirty filter is a simple DIY solution with the recommendation to check on the filter every 2-4 weeks and to replace the manufacturer recommends, or as necessary.

Low refrigerant is due to a leak which can be detected in your spring tune-up. It may be working for now, but once the refrigerant level drops below the threshold, you will find the ac blowing warm air. The spring tune-up can clean, oil and inspect the system, and any problems will be identified and repaired. While a properly functioning system is less likely to break down, when the system begins to age, or has been grossly neglected over time, repeated leaks indicate a problem, or even the potential need for a new air conditioning installation.

Ignoring a leak can damage the compressor which pumps the cooled air into your home. A compressor is the most costly component in your air conditioning system, and catching the leak during a tune-up will cost a fraction of the potential cost of a compressor for air conditioning repair in Katy.

Malfunctioning fan motors are another common cause of air conditioner problems. You may hear unusual sounds, or notice the air movement from the vents isn’t as much as it was. The spring tune-up can detect a weakening or faulty fan and enable repair now, preventing the need for an additional service call to provide air conditioning repair in Katy.

Frozen coils can occur with a refrigerant leak, but a dirty air filter can also cause this. Frozen coils may or may not be visible depending upon the type of system that you have. If you experience the ac blowing warm air, first check your filter and change if it’s dirty. If that doesn’t correct the problem you will need to call your air conditioning technician for air conditioning repair in Katy.

A tune-up can also reveal wiring hazards inside the ac system. This condition can cause circuit breakers to shut off and can be a fire hazard. In addition, loose electrical connections can cause a significant increase in the electric bill.

The inspection during a tune-up may reveal a clogged drain in the condensate pan, which can result in water overflowing and potential damage to your home. Improperly removed condensate will also increase the home’s humidity making you feel hot and sticky.

A dirty coil is an additional issue the spring tune-up can identify. A dirty coil can result in reduced cooling and a drop in efficiency of 30-40 % as the system runs longer trying to cool the home. A dirty coil will also reduce the life span of the air conditioning system.

The spring tune-up can save you money by reducing breakdowns, extending its life span, as well as providing the optimal performance and saving you energy dollars. Have your air conditioning thoroughly inspected and serviced now before the cooling season arrives.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning provides air conditioning repair in Katy, as well as Plano, and the surrounding areas. Our NATE certified and experienced technicians provide the superior spring air conditioning service you need to maintain your comfort. Don’t delay your tune-up; contact the experts at Cypress today to schedule your spring service.

Heat Pump | AC Repair Katy

For homeowners looking for a clean alternative to gas, and energy efficient air conditioning, a heat pump provides a clean alternative for heating and air conditioning. If you are currently considering the options for the replacement of an aging system requiring frequent heating and AC repair in Katy, a heat pump may be the alternative you are looking for.

A heat pump uses electricity to move heat, and in the heating mode can deliver up to four times the amount of energy they consume. The heat pump can reduce your home’s energy consumption and the humidity inside, resulting in lower power bills and greater comfort during the summer months.

Air-Source Heat Pump

The most commonly purchased type of heat pump is the air-source heat pump. The air-source heat pump uses refrigerant to extract heat from the air, providing heat in the winter and cold dehumidified air during the summer.

When properly sized and installed by a licensed, professional HVAC technician, an air-source heat pump can provide efficient heating and air conditioning. In addition, professional installation assures an extended lifespan assisting to prevent premature wear due to improper sizing. Improper sizing can cause the system to be overworked, resulting in early wear on components and the frequent need for heating and AC repair in Katy.

Ductless, Mini-Split Heat Pumps

For homes lacking a duct system, a ductless mini-split heat pump can provide the heating and air conditioning that you need. The mini-split heat pump provides the advantages of heat pumps for homes or room additions where ductwork installation is not feasible. Mini splits offer the flexibility for zoning or of heating and cooling individual rooms. Furthermore, the mini splits are easier to install than other types of HVAC systems. Finally, they provide an advantage the standard ducted system can’t, as a ductless system avoids the energy losses associated with ductwork of central forced air systems.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

Geothermal Heat Pumps extract heat from the ground through underground coils. A refrigerant or other liquid flows through the coils in order to extract heat from the surrounding ground, which at specific depths remains a consistent 45-55 degrees F. Geothermal system can be ground sourced or closed-loop systems, or open-loop systems utilizing a water source.

In a closed-loop system, the refrigerant is circulated repeatedly, whereas an open-loop system using water from a local source such as a pond returns the water to its natural source.

Geothermal heat pumps cost more initially, though they have significantly lower operating costs than traditional air-source heat pumps. This is due to the systems advantage of utilizing the relatively consistent ground or water temperatures. In addition, ground source heat pumps operate quieter, last significantly longer, and require less maintenance.

Maintenance

Routine annual maintenance will maintain the proper operation and efficient performance of a heat pump. In fact, a poorly maintained heat pump can cost up to 25% more to operate, and can experience a reduced lifespan and the increased need for heating and AC repair in Katy.

Besides ensuring annual maintenance, ensuring that the air filter is changed once a month or as recommended by the manufacturer is an essential factor in proper and efficient performance. Filters manufactured to be cleaned and reused should be cleaned each month. Dirty filters will result in dirty coils, ducts and fans. This reduces the airflow through the system, and will decrease the performance, while increasing wear and tear upon the unit. Consequently, the frequency of heating and AC repairs in Katy will also increase, raising your home’s energy costs and resulting in a prematurely worn and unreliable system.

An additional tip is to ensure that you use the filter recommended by the systems manufacturer. The use of a non-approved filter can result in premature wear on the system and the need for increased heating and AC repair in Katy.

We offer a full line of HVAC systems for your home or office, including a quality Carrier heat pump just right for your home and budget. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s NATE certified HVAC technicians provide exceptional service and are dedicated to your satisfaction. Our experienced professionals offer heating and AC repair in Katy, installation, and more. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Replace AC | Air Conditioning Installation

If you have attempted to turn on the AC this year and discovered it requires repair, before contacting an HVAC technician consider the following information. However, no appliance lasts forever and your air conditioner will eventually need to be replaced. The question homeowners often have is when they should replace the AC. When an AC is unreliable with frequent repairs required, it is to your advantage to replace it. The money spent on frequent repairs could be applied toward a reliable, and energy efficient air conditioning installation.

The main factors to consider regarding the decision to repair or replace an air conditioner include its age, maintenance history and the repair estimate. A system over 10 years old, with a history of frequent repairs should be replaced. When repairs become frequent, and poor maintenance and service have been provided, replacement provides the best option. When the current repair estimate, plus the past two years repairs equal half the cost of a new model, air conditioning installation will be the logical solution.

Today’s central air conditioners are superior in energy efficiency than the average 10 year old system nearing the end of its service life. The energy saved may even pay for the new air conditioning installation over time.

Air Conditioning and Energy Efficiency

The seasonal energy efficiency rating of air conditioning (SEER) is a major factor to consider. A higher SEER provides greater energy efficiency, reducing the cost of energy. Higher-efficiency air conditioning systems provide exceptional comfort with superior distribution of cooling and greater dehumidification. Furthermore, when purchasing an air conditioning system, it pays to select the highest efficiency model the budget will allow for air conditioning installation.

The majority of homeowner’s today strive to find ways to cut energy costs. An energy audit on can be of benefit, by revealing areas in need of upgrades, such as sealing air leaks, replacing leaky windows and boosting insulation.

However, home-efficiency upgrades may affect the home’s cooling needs, reducing energy costs significantly. For example, prior to upgrades your home may have required a 3 ton air conditioner, whereas after upgrades it may require a 2.5 ton air conditioner. This will not only decrease energy costs, it may decrease the cost of the unit, or enable you to purchase a higher grade model for air conditioning installation.

Determining the correct size of HVAC system for your home depends upon the calculation of a number of factors. Factors such as the square footage, type, size and number of windows and the direction they face, the amount of insulation, the home’s geographical location, and the amount of sunlight the home receives, to name a few.

The consideration of these factors is essential in preventing an undersized unit, which runs too often and cools inefficiently, or an oversized unit, which runs too little and in unable to remove humidity, potential mold issues and a sticky, uncomfortable home. By selecting Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for air conditioning installation you won’t need to worry about receiving an incorrectly sized system. We believe there is only one way to provide an installation – the right way.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers NATE certified and experienced HVAC technicians. Our technicians have the expertise to ensure a proper selection and installation for your home, ensuring the best performance and greatest comfort possible, with a number of options to fit almost any budget.

Our line of Carrier products ensures you will receive the nation’s top rated HVAC systems for reliability, and energy efficiency. Our dedicated technicians provide superior AC repair, maintenance and air conditioning installation for your home in Katy, Plano and the surrounding regions. When you need to replace the AC, contact us for a free estimate. We provide 24 hour emergency services for your comfort, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Air Conditioning Repair | AC Blowing Warm Air

With the days now warming up, some homeowners have already turned their air conditioning on. Without a doubt, some have encountered the problem of the AC blowing warm air, and have required air conditioning repair.

While there are a number of potential causes for the AC blowing warm air, some are a simple fix for homeowner’s that require no tools or knowledge of HVAC. We will cover the most common causes, and how you can get the air conditioning back on your own.

Thermostat Setting

It happens often, so don’t feel bad if it happens to you. Check your thermostat setting and ensure it isn’t on “heat”. It is easy for it to occur during the spring and fall when a little heat is needed at night, and air conditioning is required during the day. A programmable thermostat can automatically take care of this issue for you.

Check the fan setting. If the fan setting is “on”, rather than “auto” the fan will run continuously. When the outside condenser isn’t running, the air exiting the vents will be warmer. Someone may have bumped the fan to run with a window open to air the house out, resulting in the AC blowing warm air when the compressor isn’t running.

Dirty Air Filter and/or Coils

A dirty air filter or coils can cause the outdoor compressor to freeze up due to insufficient air flow, resulting in the AC blowing warm air. Depending upon the type of filter, you may need to change it monthly. Pleated filters are typically changed every three months, and some filters are engineered to be cleaned. Check the filter at least each month if not more often, and change/clean it when soiled.

Dirty coils will require contacting your HVAC technician for maintenance. When your system is serviced annually or ideally bi-annually, this problem shouldn’t normally occur. When the coils are cleaned annually and your AC is blowing warm air in the absence of a dirty filter, move on to the next check.

No Power to the Condenser

The air conditioning system consists of an outdoor condenser and an indoor blower unit. The indoor blower unit houses the fan that forces the cold and dehumidified air through your home’s duct system, as long as the outdoor condenser is working.

Check the circuit breaker in the home’s electrical service panel to ensure it hasn’t tripped. If you have an older electrical panel, the fuse that protects the electrical circuit for the air conditioner may be blown. A circuit breaker can simply be pushed back into the “on” position. If it trips again, there is a problem with the electrical circuit or the condenser, contact your HVAC technician for diagnoses and repair. Replace a blown fuse, and if it blows again follow the same procedure.

A power surge can cause the safety circuits to blow, or shut off. However, repeatedly tripped breakers or blown fuses indicate a potentially serious issue. Depending upon the system design, there may be an additional breaker located indoors or out. Outdoors it will typically be located in a service box near the condenser. Check the wall, or under a deck if located near the condenser. Indoors, split systems may have a fan switch and dual breakers inside the unit’s air handler indoors. A tripped breaker can cause the system to not have power, while a tripped fan switch will cause the fan to not operate.

As previously stated if this is more than an occasion occurrence with power surges, have your HVAC system inspected and serviced by a qualified technician.

Outdoor Condenser

Check the outdoor condensing unit. Have you removed the winter cover before using the air conditioning for the first time this season?

Is anything blocking the condenser coils and air flow? Blockage will impact the condenser’s performance, and may result in damage to the unit.

The condenser coils may be in need of a professional cleaning, just like the coils inside, dirt will impact the system performance.

Refrigerant Leak

A refrigerant leak is a common cause of the AC blowing warm air. If the system is low on refrigerant the ice will form on inside and outside components, dependent upon the type system that you have. Contact your HVAC technician for repair and charging with refrigerant.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning provides professional heating and air conditioning service. When the AC is blowing warm air contact our certified HVAC professionals for air conditioning repair or installation. You can rely upon us for your comfort. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Programmable Thermostat | Air Conditioning Katy, TX

As a Carrier dealer, Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning carries a wide variety of thermostats. Carrier’s line of thermostats and controls, offers a product for everyone’s preferences and budget. The thermostat is an integral component of a home’s heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX. It regulates the home’s temperature to the selected setting, while allowing you to adjust the comfort level, and settings for improved energy savings. An energy saving alternative for homeowners who want to save money on energy costs, is a digital programmable thermostat. The programmable thermostat allows the settings to be customized to fit your schedule, providing automatic adjustment of temperature according to the specifications that you program, eliminating unnecessary energy waste, while maintaining comfort.

You can save on the energy costs of heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX by resetting any thermostat when you’re asleep or away from home. With a programmable thermostat, temperature adjustments are provided automatically according to your pre-set schedule, and you won’t have to worry over forgetting to reset the thermostat, or come home to an uncomfortable home. A programmed schedule results in energy saved, and lower energy costs.

Programmable thermostats can also store and repeat multiple daily settings, and offer a temporary manual override without changing the programmed schedule for those with a lot of comings and goings of family members throughout the day.

Recommended Thermostat Operation

During the winter, a temperature of 68°F while you’re awake and 65°F while you sleep will save on energy costs. When you’re away from home, a setting of 55°F will prevent frozen pipes while increasing your savings. Reducing the temperature provides a savings of approximately 1% for each degree it is reduced.

During the summer, the costs of air conditioning in Katy, TX can be reduced by raising the temperature when you’re away, and maintaining a temperature of 78°F when you’re home. A programmable thermostat provides the convenience of automatically adjusting the temperature, without the need to change it.

Programmable thermostats assist in reducing wear and tear on your home’s heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX , by reducing unnecessary operation time.

Heat Pumps and Thermostats

Until recently, programmable thermostats were not recommended for heat pumps. In its cooling mode, turning up the thermostat on a heat pump will save energy and money. However, when a heat pump operates in its heating mode, reducing the temperature can cause the back-up heat to operate, resulting in increased energy usage. Maintaining a moderate setting is the most cost-effective practice.

Fortunately, the industry has begun to design programmable thermostats for heat pumps, providing a cost-effective solution by reducing the use of back-up heating.

Selecting and Programming

Digital programmable thermostats offer a large number of features, but can prove to be difficult for some people to program.

In addition, when selecting a location for the thermostat, you should be aware that proper operation requires location on an interior wall away from direct sunlight, drafts, doorways, skylights, and windows. Don’t place furniture in front of the thermostat as this will block natural air movement and result in poor performance. Ensure the thermostat is conveniently located for programming.

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats provide additional advantages over temperature control and energy management. They can communicate with your smart home to accomplish other beneficial tasks.

Smart Thermostat vs. Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat essentially utilizes a built-in clock to control the home’s temperature. Programmable thermostats allow you to create custom schedules according to your preferences.

Smart thermostats are programmable thermostats with additional features. These features include automatic schedules, the ability for remote adjustment, notification when the thermostat is manually activated, and energy savings reports that guide you to energy efficient settings for your heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX. In addition, a smart thermostat detects and adapts to your schedule with little effort from you.

The smart thermostat enables you to control the temperature remotely through Wi-Fi connectivity. In addition, it will work in conjunction with home automation. For example, with home sensors the thermostat can be programmed to cut off when a door is left open, or to go into its unoccupied mode when you leave home. Some models will even work with a security system, turning compatible LED lights on and off randomly, making your home appear as if it is occupied.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers professional installation of a thermostat compatible your heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX.

These are just a few of the numerous features offered by smart thermostats, which vary according to the model. Contact our certified professionals for further information. Our professionals provide reliable services for heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX including repair, installation and maintenance. Furthermore, you can depend upon our experienced technicians’ expertise to meet or exceed the industry’s standards, and provide you with quality HVAC services.

Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for the professional installation of a programmable thermostat. Our dedicated HVAC technicians will provide your heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX with a compatible thermostat and the features you need. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

A Matching System | Heating and Air Conditioning

Why a Matching System is Important

In a heating and air conditioning system, the cooling components consist of an outdoor condensing unit and an indoor air handler. The two components are designed to work together to provide optimal performance, maximum efficiency, and comfort. When a new outdoor condenser is installed, you should install a new, corresponding and equally efficient indoor air handler at the same time. The installation of the two components that are designed to be used together comprises a matching system.

A properly sized matched system enables the system to perform as designed, with proper cycle times, the intended humidity control, with the system sound minimized. These features are likely to be lost in a mismatched system. While replacing the outdoor unit only may be appealing to a lower cost, it is likely to cost you more over time.

First of all, mismatching is not always an option for your heating and air conditioning system. When it is an option, the system may work, but there are negative consequences of using a mismatched system. It will not provide the promised energy efficiency. In fact, you may lose as much as 15 percent of the stated efficiency. Furthermore, comfort is likely to be sacrificed. A mismatched system is likely to underperform on the hottest days of the summer, neither cooling efficiently or properly removing humidity. Finally, a mismatched system can overwork the air conditioning system, resulting in unnecessary, premature failure.

Modern HVAC systems are designed for greater efficiency, the compatible coils and other indoor components are designed to match the technology. The compressor is the costliest component of a modern air conditioning system, and because compressor reliability is extremely dependent upon proper system design and installation, the installation of a new condenser without replacing the existing evaporator coil can result serious issues for your heating and air conditioning system.

First, the aged indoor coil will probably provide less heat transfer capability. Second, it will typically have an expansion device that is not sized or designed for use with the recommended refrigerant charge. Furthermore, the existing coil being of the improper design for the new condenser will increase the risk of compressor failure. Simply stated, the existing indoor coil’s performance will already be weakened and deteriorated due age, dirt and corrosion.

A mismatched system is a gamble, as the chances of compressor failure increases by 45% within the first year. Mismatching a new condenser and compressor to an aged, undersized coil and fixed expansion device is almost a certain failure, and one not covered under a number of heating and air conditioning manufacturer’s warranty coverage.

Furthermore, almost all utility companies require that both components of an air conditioner or heat pump system be ARI certified and properly matched in order to qualify for their rebate programs.

Despite all of the profound negatives of a mismatched system, a number of contractors and dealers routinely fail to replace the indoor coil with the installation of a new condensing unit. Few homeowners realize the importance of a matching system for the heating and air conditioning system, or that a critical component has failed to be installed.

You can depend upon Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s certified professionals to perform the job right the first time in all respects, including providing a matching system. We only hire the best HVAC technicians available to ensure your satisfaction. Contact us for heating and air conditioning installation, repair, maintenance, and all of your HVAC needs. We assure your comfort, and guarantee your satisfaction. We serve Plano, Katy, and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Furnace Efficiency Tips | Air Conditioning Service

To say that this winter has been colder than normal for much of the country is an understatement. Common complaints this winter have been the furnace not providing adequate heat, or that it is not performing as efficiently as in previous years. This doesn’t necessarily mean your furnace is failing, or that your thermostat needs to be replaced. Three common factors (besides a colder than normal winter) that are often involved in an underperforming furnace include a clean furnace filter, adequate insulation and providing routine heating and air conditioning service.

Change or Clean the Furnace Filter

It’s easy to forget to change the air filter, and the best way to remember it is to make it a habit on the same day. If you change the filter every month on the first day, you will be able to remember it better. If your filter requires changing every three months you will still want to check it monthly. That way, if remodeling, cleaning out the attic, or excavation next door stirs up more dust, your filter won’t be in such bad shape as it would two months down the line.

A dirty furnace filter is extremely detrimental for your furnace, its performance, efficiency and lifespan. Not only is your home receiving less air, but the restricted air flow to the furnace is distributing detrimental dust throughout the system and into your home. An HVAC system starving for air is overworked, causing premature wear and can result in damage or a fire. In addition, the dirty furnace is going to require a professional cleaning and heating and air conditioning service. Ultimately, a clean filter is the best investment in your system’s performance, efficiency and longevity.

Furnace Maintenance

Annual maintenance is the second most important investment in your furnace. A clean, well-tuned furnace will perform optimally, efficiently and last longer. There is more to the annual maintenance checkup than just cleaning. It includes oiling components that create friction so they don’t seize up, inspecting the combustion chamber for dangerous cracks or holes, and checking electrical connections to name a few. A loose wiring connection can result in the system using substantially more electricity, and worn parts can result in shutting the system down on the coldest night of the season. Equally important is systems under warranty, the failure to provide the recommended heating or air conditioning service maintenance may void the warranty.

Furnace tune-ups and air conditioning service is recommended once a year, and a certified professional HVAC technician can detect problems before they cause system failure, or larger more costly issues. Annual service will protect your investment, maintain peak performance and efficiency and extend its lifespan, while you maintaining a warm comfortable home.

An Adequately Insulated Home

Adequate insulation is required to keep a home warm. Inspect the insulation in the attic, if the ceiling joists are visible, insulation needs to be added. Insulation will lose its density over time.

In addition, insulation guidelines change periodically and though your home’s insulation may have been to code when built, it could now be not to code. If your home seems to be cooling down faster than it used to after the heat cycle shuts off, inspect the attic insulation. Additionally, check for air intrusion around windows, doors, and plumbing.

We hope you found these furnace efficiency tips useful. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s NATE certified HVAC technicians provide exceptional service and are dedicated to your satisfaction. Our experienced technicians offer experience and expertise in heating and air conditioning service, installation, repair, and more. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Saving on the Home Energy Bill | Heating and Air Conditioning

Saving on the home energy bill can be as simple as operating your home’s heating and air conditioning system correctly, and providing routine filter changes and annual professional maintenance. The following are some of the common problems that cause inefficiency, wear and tear on the system and can result in a reduced lifespan.

Setting the thermostat fan control to On (Fan in some systems) causes the blower to run continuously, while the compressor continues to cycle off and on. Moisture removed from the air while the compressor runs, is reintroduced into the home when the fan continues to operate between compressor cycles. The correct fan setting is on AUTO, keeping the humidity and energy cost lower, and comfort higher. When the ducts need to be resealed, the on setting will be even more costly. Cypress’s certified HVAC technicians can check your ductwork during the annual tune-up of your heating and air conditioning.

A dirty air filter restricts the air flow, resulting in reduced efficiency, and can lead to equipment failure and costly repair. Replace the filter with the type recommended by the manufacturer, at the suggested frequency, typically each month. Even if you use filters that are “good” for 3 months, check them monthly and change when required. After all, the main purpose of an air filter is to protect the heating and air conditioning system.

Dirty coils will eventually occur in all systems, especially those whose filters are not changed as recommended, or that utilize cheap fiberglass filters. All of the air drawn through the system goes through the air filter, then through the evaporator coils during the cooling season. For each year that a dirty coil is not professionally cleaned, energy efficiency is reduced by 5%, increasing the electric bill and reducing comfort. All heating and air conditioning systems should be professionally “tuned up” each year, with a system inspection and cleaning of the coils if necessary.

The Thermostat is Set Too Low or High – People often misunderstand the thermostat. For example, if the thermostat is set at 78 degrees and a power outage occurs and the indoor temperature climbs to 92 degrees before the power is restored. A large number of people will lower the thermostat temperature thinking it will cool the house faster. However, the heating and air conditioning system will not run any faster, regardless of the setting, it can only run longer, driving up the cost of energy.

The recommended summer setting is 78 degrees. Set the temperature 2 to 5 degrees higher when you’re away in the day for greater savings. Home cooling costs increase by as much as 12% for each degree setting below 78 degrees.During the winter, the recommended setting is 68 degrees while you are home and awake. By setting the temperature back while you sleep or are away, you can save as much as 1% for each degree the thermostat is set back.

A miscalibrated thermostat can be badly inaccurate, and can elevate the energy bill. For example, your thermostat may be set on 72, but an accurate thermometer may reveal the actual temperature is 64. The thermostat can be accurately calibrated, replaced or you can simply compensate for the difference once the actual temperature is established.

Outdoor air infiltration makes the HVAC system work harder. Cracks around windows and doors, electrical outlets and light switches, around plumbing, ducts, vents and fireplaces are sources of air leaks. Leaks in the duct system affect the system’s performance by pulling in air from the outdoors at a more rapid rate. As a result, the system must run longer to compensate and energy costs rise sharply. In addition, duct air leaks can negatively impact air quality in the home.

Inspect the Duct System for separated duct, or in the case of flex duct, monitor for damaged duct from pets and wildlife. Keep an eye on the ductwork.

Over time, sealant or metal tape can loosen, causing air leaks in the duct system. Resealing the ducts will stop the loss of conditioned air and reduce wear and tear on the heating and air conditioning.

Furthermore, ductwork located in the attic needs adequate insulation to prevent warming of the air supplied.

Don’t block supply registers or air return grills with furniture, drapes, stacked or other items. Not only does this increase operating costs, the inadequate volume of return air to the coil will reduce the heating and air conditioning systems life span.

Don’t block the outdoor condenser, heat pump or package unit with decks, shrubbery, or other objects. To work properly it requires a minimal clearance. The condenser coils also need to be kept clean and receive annual maintenance. Locating the unit on the north side is recommended to prevent it from having to work against the heat of the sun on baking hot summer days. It’s possible to shade it with trees, but remember that the condenser needs plenty of space for adequate ventilation.

Oversized air conditioning systems cool quickly, and as a result don’t run long enough to adequately remove moisture from the air. The result is a cool, damp interior prone to mold. An oversized air conditioner cycles on-and-off frequently wasting energy. An accurately sized heating and air conditioning system for your home will run longer, dry the air better and provide a comfortable home.

When the goal is saving on the home energy bill, contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to receive an energy efficient, accurately sized, and professionally installed heating and air conditioning installation. Our certified HVAC technicians offer the experience and skills to ensure the heating and air conditioning service that you can depend upon. Whether you need repair, maintenance or installation of heating and air conditioning, you can count on us to deliver HVAC services that meet or exceed the industry standards. Your satisfaction is guaranteed. We are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.