Indoor Air Pollution | Heating and Air Conditioning

In the past few years, there has been a lot of talk about indoor air pollution. The home’s heating and air conditioning system will filter a number of pollutants with a HEPA filter. While ventilating your home with fresh air improves indoor air quality, there are a number of hazards you can treat to reduce the amounts present.

By being proactive and eliminating as many sources of indoor air pollutants as possible, your health will improve, while reducing the risks. The following are a few common indoor air pollutants:

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is odorless, invisible, and tasteless. At low exposures, it can induce headaches, dizziness, nausea and other flu-like symptoms. At higher doses, the gas can be lethal, and for those who survive, brain damage can be permanent.

Carbon monoxide is a byproduct from the combustion of fossil fuels, such as natural gas, propane, kerosene, diesel fuel, and gasoline. Ensure your gas appliances and ventilation pipes receive routinely inspection. When a Cypress technician provides annual maintenance on your home’s heating and air conditioning system, we will inspect the gas furnace’s ventilation pipe to ensure its safety. The gas stove does not have a vent pipe, therefore each time you use it, run the ventilation hood fan, and never use the oven as a heat source.

The second step in protecting your family is to use carbon monoxide detectors. Install at least one on each floor, and one outside of each sleeping area.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are common in bedding, carpet and other upholstered furnishings around the house. Dust mite feces are especially problematic for persons with asthma and can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Place new mattresses in fully enclosed mattress covers, and pillows in pillow covers. Vacuum the existing mattress thoroughly before sealing in covers. However, dust mites are in the air in your home. Only a HEPA air purifier can remove this irritant from the air that your family breathes. Contact your HVAC technician, and ask if it is safe to use a HEPA filter in your home’s heating and air conditioning system.

Mold

Damp, moist conditions can cause mold spores to proliferate. Persons with asthma, allergies, and immune system disorders are sensitive to mold.

Treat mold at the source by having leaks repaired. If the basement tends to flood, have a sump pump installed. A high quality HEPA filter can help to reduce the presence of mold spores. In addition, a dehumidifier can be installed attached to your home’s heating and air conditioning to lower the moisture in humid environments, and increase your comfort during the summer season.

Radon

Radon is odorless, tasteless, and colorless, and is the second leading cause of cancer. It seeps into homes and from the ground. Test kits are available to test for radon in the home. If radon is present in your home, contact a professional.

Smoke

Smoking has deadly consequences, for both smokers and those who inhale secondhand smoke. Smoking can trigger allergies and is the number one cause of cancer. The best way to prevent the health issues related to second hand smoke is by not allowing anyone to smoke in your home.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs include chemicals such as formaldehyde, acetone, benzene and many others. Potential sources include composite wood products, flooring, adhesives, carpet, paint, sealing caulk, solvents, vinyl flooring, varnishes, upholstery fabrics, air fresheners, cleaning and disinfecting products and many others.

Use natural cleaning products such as vinegar and lemon juice, and make air freshener from essential oil and water. When remodeling look for VOC free paints and products. A HEPA filter will help to reduce the amount of VOCs in the circulating air.

You can minimize the amount of indoor air pollutants with frequent “airings” of the home, and the use of a HEPA filter. Not all HVAC systems are designed for the use of a HEPA filter. Check with your systems manufacturer or your Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning HVAC technician before using a HEPA to prevent potential damage to the heating and air conditioning system.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers the professional installation of products to enhance a home’s comfort and provide cleaner indoor air. From ventilators to whole-house air cleaners and other, our certified technicians ensure the proper installation and system compatibility of our products with your heating and air conditioning to provide the greatest comfort and cleanest air possible.

When you are ready to start improving the indoor air quality in your home, contact our air quality specialists. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers expertise in heating and air conditioning installation, AC repair in Katy, annual maintenance, clean air solutions and more. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Tips to Save Energy | AC Repair Katy

Summer vacation is an exciting time for family fun, and well-earned relaxation. When vacationing, you deserve to relax, and not worry whether unnecessary energy is wasted. If the air conditioning system has not already received its annual service, schedule it before leaving. That way if a problem is developing, providing AC repair in Katy before your departure will ensure a comfortable home upon your return. The following tips to save energy will prevent unnecessary energy waste while away on vacation.

• A programmable thermostat will assist in preventing unnecessary energy consumption. The thermostat can be set to provide minimal air conditioning during the day to prevent extreme heat from building in the home. Program the thermostat to restore the normal temperature, and a comfortable home for your return.
• Reduce phantom drain by unplugging appliances and electronics that consume standby energy, or phantom drain. Appliances that maintain clocks, settings or other features use standby energy. These typically include televisions, DVD players, game systems, home theatre systems, microwaves, electric stoves, and computers. Unplug them completely, or turn off the power strip.
• The water heater is the home’s second largest consumer or power, and turning it down or completely off makes sense for saving power while you vacation.
• Closing blinds and curtains will prevent heat gain through the windows increasing the interior temperature, and causing the air conditioning to run.
• Turn off unnecessary lighting. Install CFL’s, or LED lights for those that remain on. Consider placing indoor lighting on a timer for an occupied appearance to your home while vacationing.
• Turn off all fans before leaving; fans cool you, and not the room.
• Refrigerator coils can be on the back or beneath the appliance. If it has been a while, provide the coils with a thorough vacuum to ensure the appliance will not overheat and stop chilling. This prevents the need for repair, and saves energy year round.
• Empty the refrigerator of foods that will perish. If your vacation will be a long one, empty the appliance and unplug it, turning off the water to the icemaker. Prop the door open to prevent odors and mold from developing.
• Turn off the water to the washing machine, rather than risk serious damage to the home from a burst hose.
• Have a plumber repair leaky faucets before leaving for vacation. A leaky faucet may turn into a broken faucet and a flood.
• Provide a clean filter for the HVAC system before leaving. A dirty filter will increase energy costs and may result in damage to the system, requiring AC repair in Katy. Remember to use an approved filter for the air conditioner. Damage may occur to systems requiring AC repair in Katy when you insert a non-approved filter.

To receive air conditioning installation, maintenance, or AC repair in Katy contact us for reliable, professional service. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s certified HVAC technicians can provide your heating and air conditioning needs with superior service. Our certified HVAC technicians are trained, experienced and dedicated to providing professional quality installations and AC repair in Katy. We guarantee your satisfaction, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating. We hope you found our tips to save energy useful.

Thermostats | Air Conditioning Repair Katy

Smart vs. Programmable Thermostats

Heating and air conditioning costs can account for up to 50% of a home’s energy consumption. Everyone knows that HVAC thermostats control the temperature, though not everyone is familiar with the innovative technology of smart or programmable thermostats. These thermostats offer more than temperature control, and can assist you to save up to 20 percent on the cost of air conditioning. In addition, the long-term results of precise control are reduced wear and tear on the system, and consequently less air conditioning repair in Katy.

Both smart and programmable thermostats can assist in managing the energy bills, though the benefits and features vary between the two styles. In the following, a comparison of the major features of both styles provides guidance in selecting the best one for you. Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for thermostat installation, HVAC system installation, and air conditioning repair in Katy.

Programmable Thermostats

• Allows temperatures to be programmed based on your schedule, saving energy while the home unoccupied.
• Can reduce cooling costs up to 20 percent when properly programmed and operated
• Offers various models, providing a schedule to match your household habits:
  • 7 day: Ideal for those whose schedule is different every day of the week
  • 5+2 day: Created for those with the typical 5-day workweek, and 2-day weekend schedule
  • 5+1+1 day: For those with the typical 5-day work week and a varying weekend schedule.

Smart Thermostats

• Allows programming through a Wi-Fi connection of computer, smartphone, or mobile device.
• Is a self-learning device, monitors the household routine and adjust its settings based on your feedback, and even detects when a family member’s return home, and when the home is unoccupied, to save energy.
• Can reduce cooling costs up to 20 percent
• Can improve air conditioning efficiency
• Select models provide self-adjustment based on conditions such as humidity, while others will notify you when the temperature adjustments occur, and can operate lights in the home making it appear occupied.
• Select models provide notification when a filter needs to be changed, or maintenance issues occur, and can notify your HVAC technician of the need for heating or air conditioning repair in Katy.

Making the Decision

Select programmable when the following applies:

• You leave the AC running or forget to adjust the thermostat before leaving.
• You want the advantage of using rate discounts.
• Saving energy is a priority.

Select a smart thermostat if the following applies:

• You prefer the thermostat to program itself.
• You do not mind spending extra for advanced features.
• You have an irregular schedule.
• You prefer the convenience of adjusting the thermostat remotely.
• When monitoring, tracking, and charting energy usage to identify waste and ways to save energy and money are compelling.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s certified technicians offer convenient 24-hour emergency services for after-hours air conditioning repair in Katy.

Contact us for additional information regarding thermostats. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers factory-trained, NATE certified technicians with extensive experience in all brands of HVAC systems. Our certified technicians have the expertise to meet or exceed the industry’s standards, ensuring professional quality HVAC services. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers HVAC installation, replacement, maintenance, and air conditioning repair in Katy. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Air Conditioning Repair | AC Blowing Warm Air

We depend upon air conditioning to keep us comfortable during the summer. When the temperatures and humidity are abnormally high as in recent summers, a broken air conditioner is not an option for most households. Coming home and finding the AC blowing warm air is a common air conditioning repair issue, especially on units nearing the end of their lifespan. There are various potential causes for AC blowing warm air, and one of the most common is the system being turned off. Check the following before you call a technician. It may save you a service call, and a wait in the heat.

Check the Thermostat Settings

First, check the thermostat and ensure the fan is on “automatic”. At some time, almost all of us will change the fan to the “run” setting to pull fresh air in an open window or door, and forget to change it back to the automatic setting. The fan will operate continually, and the compressor will continue to run and shut off as normal. When the compressor does not run, the fan continues to run resulting in the AC blowing warm air in between compressor cycles. However, this should not result in the home being hot with the compressor still functioning as usual.

Next, ensure the thermostat setting is on “AC”. People also occasionally shut it off, and forget to return it to AC. If it is off, the compressor will not cycle and the home will fast become hot.

Third, check the temperature setting. If it is set to 80 and the temperature in the house is 79 or lower, the compressor will not cycle on, and if the fan is on continuous run, you will experience the AC blowing warm air.

In addition, if the thermostat is programmable and a power outage has occurred, you may have to reprogram it. If this occurs, check the batteries and replace them if necessary.

Check the filter, and if excessively dirty change it. A clogged and dirty filter can cause the AC to improperly cool and potentially overheat and damage the compressor. If the filter is extremely dirty, overheating may have caused the system to throw a breaker.

At this point, if the system is not cooling, check the unit’s breaker in the home electrical service panel. If the breaker is off, turn it back on. Lower the thermostat below the room temperature to allow the system to come on. If the breaker was off the system should now be cooling. Otherwise, continue to the next step.

If your home has a split system, refrigerant lines will be located in the air return (the section where you change the filter). Remove the panel and inspect the copper lines, if they are frosted or iced over the unit is low on coolant due to a refrigerant leak. This will require air conditioning service from your HVAC technician. The technician will need to repair the leak and recharge the system with refrigerant.

In the absence of iced over refrigerant lines, use a flashlight to check for an overflowing condensate pan. If this is occurring, there may be water in the bottom of the unit, or running out on the floor. Do not touch any wires due to the risk of shock. An overflowing condensate pan indicates a stopped up drain, and water may have shorted a circuit, and caused it to throw a breaker in the unit itself, or in your home’s electrical service panel.

The leakage of condensate can also indicate the coil is in need of cleaning. There comes a point when a dirty coil will not cool properly, and may result in the AC blowing warm air. A dirty coil in a split system may drip water beyond the condensate pan, resulting in wet circuitry and water on the floor.

Some split systems have one or more breakers inside the air-handling unit (the portion located inside the home). If present, ensure each is in the “on” position. If it is off, push it on. Other units will have a reset switch on the outside of the home somewhere near the condenser (the exterior component). There is generally a box with a reset switch near the unit on the wall or under an accessible deck. Any of these switches/breakers being off can result in the AC blowing warm air.

Thrown breakers occasionally occur due to problems in the electrical grid, lightning, or a problem within the breaker or AC system itself. If your unit is experiencing a frequently thrown breaker, contact a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning technician for air conditioning service. When the AC blowing warm air is due to frequently thrown breakers is, it is a potential electrical hazard that can place you, your family and your home at risk.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning can assist you with air conditioning repair when your home’s AC is blowing warm air. Give us a call to schedule air conditioning repair in Katy. In addition, we provide emergency services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for your convenience. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Air Filters | Air Conditioning Service

Maintenance is essential for a properly operating HVAC system, and nothing is simpler than changing the air filter. Routine filter changes, an annual furnace tune-up, and annual air conditioning service, will ensure your home’s system provides peak performance and a longer lifespan.

Filter changes help to maintain a clean, trouble free system. The frequency of filter changes will vary depending upon the type of filter your home’s system uses, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Otherwise, change the filter each month.

The air filter protects the HVAC system from dust and damaging particulates. Dirty filters block normal airflow, and reduce a system’s efficiency significantly. Inadequate airflow causes the system to struggle for air, and can result in damage, including the compressor. Compressor failure is a frequent reason for new heating and air conditioning installation. It is far less costly to provide air conditioning service annually, than to replace a compressor or purchase a new HVAC system.

Furthermore, a dirty filter sacrifices efficiency and performance, resulting in higher energy costs with a loss of up to 15% efficiency. A filter helps to keep these key components clean for long lasting performance.

In addition, routine air filter changes provide cleaner, fresher, healthier air throughout the home. While the filter cannot clean as effectively as an air purification system does, it removes dust, dust mites, pollen and other particulates from the air circulating in the home.

It is essential to use the appropriate filter to avoid potential damage to your HVAC system. A high-grade filter is not always better. There are various grades of air filters, and a higher grade may damage the system due to its efforts to draw air through it. This can result in overheating, and the need for air conditioning service. If you are uncertain of the appropriate filter for your system, contact the manufacturer, or give us a call.

Choose a specific day for filter change/check day. If any of the following apply to your household, an increased frequency of changes may be required:

• A family member with allergies, asthma, COPD, or other respiratory issues require cleaner air.
• Pet dander and hair will increase the amount of dust in the household.
• Use of a fireplace or wood heater increases dust and smoke particulates.
• In the spring, high outdoor pollen counts can enter the home. Construction or nearby industry, parking lots and roads can increase the amount of dust in the air.
• A smoker in the home calls for increased filter changes.

If any of these conditions are relevant to your home, check the filter every 2 weeks and change as required, but no less than once per month for optimal performance and the protection of your HVAC system.

In addition to filter changes, routine annual heating and air conditioning service will ensure the longevity, performance and efficiency of the HVAC system.

Also, keep the area near the outdoor condenser unit clean. Leaves, grass clippings, and the lawn mower are potential sources of dirt and debris. Maintain a minimal distance of 2 feet between the condenser and plants to allow for adequate airflow.

Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule air conditioning service. Our certified technicians offer experience and expertise for providing maintenance, installation and heating and air conditioning repair in Katy. If you have questions regarding your system’s air filter give us a call. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Heat Pump | Heating and Air Conditioning

For many homeowners, a heat pump provides an energy-efficient, money saving alternative for both heating and air conditioning. Because heat pumps actually move heat rather than generate heat it, the system can provide up to 4 times the amount of energy they consume, making them an energy efficient alternative.

Heat Pump Replacement

The average heat pump’s lifespan is from 10 to 15 years. Eventually, the costs of maintaining a heat pump will increase with age. Age and increased costs is a common reason for heat pump replacement.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a factor to consider when replacing the existing heat pump. Newer modern heat pumps are by far more energy-efficient than models just a few years old, and can save you up to 40% on the cost of operation. If the budget allows, select an Energy Star approved heat pump to receive the greater reliability and energy efficiency.

Greater Comfort

Humidity affects a home’s comfort. In fact, increased humidity is common in a failing air conditioning system. Today’s high efficiency heat pumps are extremely effective in reducing humidity thanks to the benefits of multistage compressors and variable speed blower fans.

Not all heat pumps possess these features, and it is well worth the extra expense to select a heat pump with them. Your comfort will be greater, and the electric bill will be less due to them.

Improved Cold Tolerance

Today’s heat pump is has a higher tolerance of lower outdoor temperatures than in the past. Older models became inefficient in the deep cold of winter, the reason so few heat pumps were in use in northern climates. When freezing temperatures struck, homes with heat pumps would rely on auxiliary heat or inefficient strip heat to warm the home.

Programmable Thermostats

Until now, the technology of programmable thermostats was not available for heat pumps. It is understandable for heat pump owners to want the advantages of programmable thermostats. As they are capable of reducing the energy costs of heating and air conditioning by as much as 20%, heat pump owners naturally want the technology for their homes. Now you can have the best of both worlds, a high efficiency heat pump, controlled by a programmable thermostat.

Selecting a Heat Pump

As you shop for a heat pump, you will note the Energy Guide Label, which describes the heat pump’s heating and air conditioning efficiency performance rating. The two efficiency ratings you will want to understand on the label are HSPF and SEER:

• The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) is a rating of heat pump heating efficiency. It is the ratio of the seasonal heating output in Btu divided by the seasonal power consumption in watts. The minimal efficiency for package systems in Texas requires a HSPF of 8.0. A split system has a required minimal efficiency of 8.2 HSPF. Carrier’s Infinity Greenspeed 20 offers a HSPF of 13.5, providing significant savings on your heating costs.
• Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): This is a rating of a heat pump’s cooling efficiency. It is a ratio of the seasonal heat removed in Btu per hour to the seasonal power consumption in watts. In general, the higher the SEER the greater the energy efficiency is, and the higher the cost of the unit. However, the energy savings can return the higher initial investment several times over during the heat pump’s lifespan. The minimal efficiency for packaged systems or split systems in Texas requires a SEER of 14. Carrier’s Infinity Greenspeed 20 offers a SEER of 20.5, providing significant savings on your cooling costs.

When selecting an air source heat pump, be sure to look for the Energy Star label, which is awarded to those units with SEERs of 14 or greater and HSPFs of 8.0 or greater. It is your best assurance that you are receiving a reliable, high-efficiency heating and air conditioning system.

Operation and Maintenance of a Heat Pump

Providing routine maintenance of a heat pump is essential for efficient performance and the projected lifespan. A heat pump that receives routine maintenance uses up to 25% less energy on the cost of heating and air conditioning operation, than a severely neglected one.

Tips for operating a heat pump

• Do not set back the thermostat if it causes the backup heat to come on; backup heat is usually more costly to operate.
• Continuous indoor fan operation can degrade performance; operate the system on the “auto” fan setting on the thermostat.
• Clean or change filters once a month or as recommended by the manufacturer. A dirty filter, coils, and fans reduce airflow through the heating and air conditioning system and decreases system performance, and may lead to severe damage.

When properly sized and installed by a qualified HVAC technician, an air-source heat pump can provide efficient heating and air conditioning for a home. The installer’s qualification is essential in a quality heat pump installation, proper sizing, and performance.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s certified HVAC technicians provide exceptional service and are dedicated to your satisfaction. Our reliable professionals offer heating and air conditioning repair, installation, service and more. If you are considering the installation of a heat pump, give us a call for a free estimate. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Home A/C Sizing | Air Conditioning Katy, TX

When planning to install a new air conditioner, homeowners often question the size they need. It is a legitimate concern considering a large number of HVAC contractors install the wrong size. Proper home A/C sizing of air conditioning in Katy, TX is essential for energy efficiency and comfort.

You should not assume you need the same size unit as the existing air conditioning in Katy, TX currently installed in your home. A unit that is larger than you need will costs more to purchase, to operate, reduces comfort, and increases the risk of mold and mildew.

These problems are due to a process called short cycling. In other words, it will come on, quickly cooling down the home and shut off. Short cycling causes the system to be unable to remove excess humidity, and even though it may be cold in the home, the humidity causes occupants to feel hotter than it actually is. The excess humidity will also promote the growth of mold and mildew, and can damage wood furnishings.

In addition, an upgrade in insulation, doors or windows, or other energy improvements, may mean the required size of your home’s air conditioning in Katy, TX is smaller.

An Undersized Unit

On the other hand, a unit that is too small will be unable to cool your home efficiently and will experience accelerated wear and tear with a need for frequent repair, and will experience a reduced lifespan.

Contractors who measure the space and do not consider other factors are not adequately estimating the required size. There are guidelines (such as Manual J, “Residential Load Calculation, published by Air Conditioning Contractors of America, or ACCA), in place for contractors to use, and these include not only the living space, but the rating of insulation in the home, and the number, type, insulating factor and facing direction of windows and doors, for example.

A qualified professional HVAC contractor will calculate all of the required factors into sizing calculations for new or replacement heating and air conditioning, ensuring the proper size for your home’s air conditioning in Katy, TX.

Ensure you ask each of the contractors that you consider how they determine the size of system for your home. If they reply it is the size of the existing system, look elsewhere for a qualified professional to install you air conditioning in Katy.

Until recently, contractors were required to make complicated mathematical calculations to determine the required size of air conditioning; though software is now available, that simplifies it. It is however, fairly costly and a number of contractors still prefer to guess and hope for accuracy, the result is as much as 50% of homes in the U.S. is operating an oversized system costing them more than was necessary, adversely affecting comfort and efficiency in the home, and risking the growth of illness causing mold.

Select a NATE Certified HVAC Contractor

While a licensed technician is not required to be NATE certified, it is a factor providing a homeowner with an indication of the HVAC technician’s level of training and expertise, and an extra level of assurance for a proper installation.

NATE certified technicians must recertify every 2 years, ensuring you receive a HVAC technician who is up to date on the latest changes in the HVAC industry.

Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for professional installation of air conditioning in Katy, TX , HVAC repair, maintenance, or other heating and air conditioning needs. When you hire a Cypress expert, you can be confidant of receiving the proper home A/C sizing. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

HVAC Warranty | Air Conditioning Repair Plano, Texas

Avoiding the Mistakes that Can Void a Warranty

Although quality HVAC systems are manufactured to be reliable and long lasting, occasionally a problem may occur while the system is under warranty. In the rare event when this occurs, you will be thankful for the warranty, and will want to ensure it will be honored by the manufacturer. The following are common mistakes which can void your manufacturer’s warranty, and leaving you footing the bill for heating or air conditioning repair in Plano, Texas.

Register the Warranty

Registration is important for future warranty coverage of the HVAC system. Depending upon the manufacturer, the failure to register the warranty can result in either voiding the warranty or in a reduced coverage period. In almost all cases, you can usually register online. Print a copy of the confirmation for your records.

Use of Other Brands of Parts

The manufacturer may require its brand name parts to be used in the event of heating or air conditioning repair in Plano, Texas. This is due to their intensive testing of their own parts, and not others. They will view replacement with other brand parts as a potential cause for additional problems. Therefore, it is best to leave repair to licensed professionals and insist upon the manufacturer’s recommended parts.

Improper Installation

HVAC installation is not a DIY task for a homeowner. There are a number of factors involved in selecting the appropriate size and type of heating and air conditioning system for your home, and a number to consider in its proper installation. You should always leave installation to certified HVAC professionals who can guarantee the proper system for your home and its installation.

Professional Installation

Manufacturers typically require installation by a licensed, credentialed professional. You can rely upon a professional installation when you call Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning, and your satisfaction is guaranteed. Furthermore, Carrier carries a solid warranty with a variety of extended warranties available. Call for additional details.

Omitting Annual Maintenance

A number of homeowners think a new system should not require maintenance until it starts gaining age or having problems. Maintenance is different than heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, Texas, the purpose of maintenance is to prevent most repairs and extend the lifespan of the system. The system, even if it is just reaching its one year anniversary should receive maintenance by a licensed professional annually. This will ensure the system is operating optimally at peak efficiency, will prolong its lifespan, provides the best air quality possible, and can reveal problems before they occur or expand into more costly issues.

Keep Maintenance Records Handy

The manufacturer may require documentation that shows annual maintenance has been provided. A contractor will keep your invoices on file, but having them on hand can avoid any delays in receiving service.

Our HVAC technicians offer experience and expertise in the provision of air conditioning maintenance, heating and air conditioning installation, and heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, Texas. We service all brands in Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Improving Energy Efficiency | Heating and Air Conditioning

When the cost of air conditioning your home has you hot under the collar, utilize the following information to assist you in keeping cool air in, and hot air out. In numerous homes, the windows and doors are a significant source of elevated energy bills, and a waste of energy. Sealing and weatherizing them can reduce the energy cost of heating and air conditioning by as much 20% according to some sources. This provides a significant upgrade for improving energy efficiency.

Seal Windows

The most common cause of energy loss around windows is cracks, gaps and other openings that allow conditioned indoor air to escape and outdoor air in. A draft coming from a window is due to an ineffective seal. Failing seals can occur around the glass in the window or door, the window frame or the window casing. Any openings around the casing should be sealed with caulking to keep indoor air inside. Glass panes can be sealed with clear caulking.

Install Weather-stripping

Weather-stripping can be applied around the edges of the window frame to create an airtight seal that should effectively weatherize windows, and simply sticks in place with a strip of adhesive on one side. Ensure the weather-stripping won’t come in contact with the sliding frame of the window. V-seal weather-stripping or rope caulk also provides an effective solution. Caulk may be used. Ensure you use paintable caulk of you intend to paint it.

Check the weather-stripping on doors and replace if you can feel drafts or see daylight around the door. Sealing doors and windows effectively will reduce energy costs, assisting your heating and air conditioning system to function efficiently and last longer.

Insulated Curtains

Insulated curtains provide a barrier over windows, providing assistance in blocking heat gain and cold drafts.

Low-e Windows and Window Film

Low-e windows offer an alternative for those who don’t want to block a view, and provide significantly greater energy savings than insulated curtains. They are the best option for energy efficient windows available, and in increasing the energy efficiency of your home and heating and air conditioning system.

A lower cost alternative is reflective window film that can be self-installed. Window film can block up to 99% of the suns UV rays. The view is still fairly well maintained but the heat is blocked, along with the upholstery and picture fading tendency of the sun. It’s available at most home supply stores.

Furthermore, a number of brands are available that is of a higher quality, and can even be the equivalent of adding another pane of glass to existing windows. In other words, some types not only reflect the sun during the summer, but add insulation preventing heat loss during the winter. It’s available online or can be installed by a professional in a tint shop. Shop around, and compare the cost to low-e windows before purchasing window film.

Window film is extremely effective in preventing heat gain through the windows or other glass, and greatly increases comfort and the efficiency of the home’s heating and air conditioning.

Repair or Replace Cracked Panes

Cracked panes can allow air to infiltrate and should be replaced. A hardware store or window store should be able to cut and replace the glass for you. If the cracks are small without gaps, you can seal them with clear nail polish.

Install Storm Windows

Storm windows provide a barrier against energy loss, a reason some homeowners leave them in place year round. You can also install interior storm panels that you simply press in place and function similarly.

Window Replacement

If your home’s windows are worn out or damaged replacement will be the best option. Selecting windows with energy-saving characteristics such as low-e glass or double-pane insulated construction will save on energy costs.

Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule maintenance or service for issues with your heating and air conditioning, and for improving energy efficiency. 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 service all major brands of heating and air conditioning systems. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.