Repair or Replace | Air Conditioning Repair, Plano, TX

When you are in the situation of having an aging HVAC system that requires frequent air conditioning repair in Plano, TX, you are likely considering replacing it. Whether or not you should repair or replace will depend on specific factors, such as age, the amount of maintenance, and others. 

A properly maintained HVAC system is likely to outlast one that is not. Manufacturers generally recommend replacing older air conditioning units, and there are reasons for it. Furthermore, an AC unit can be almost indefinitely repaired as long as the components are available, and the system is not corroded beyond repair. However, the decision to repair may not always be the ideal financial decision. Aging systems often will not operate as efficiently as they did when new. While newer air conditioning systems operate with 30% higher efficiency than an older system.   

When you find yourself faced with the decision to repair or replace, you need an HVAC contractor who will compare an existing system’s condition and expected remaining lifespan and operating expenses to the lifespan, cost, and energy savings of a new high-efficiency system. In systems that have at best received irregular maintenance, and are aging and worn, a new system will provide significantly greater reliability, and savings on the cost of energy that will help the new system to pay for itself. 

An additional factor to take into consideration is a system’s repair history. Equipment with numerous failures and repairs is a situation that is not going to improve. Continuing to sink money into major repairs will eventually add up to the cost of a new, reliable and energy efficient system. 

It is often recommended to place a 25% cap limit on air conditioning repair in Plano, TX. When the cost of the AC repair you need now, plus any provided in the past 2-3 years will equal 25% of the cost of a new system, placing the potential cost of the current repair into a down payment is a sound decision. 

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s certified professionals will provide an honest assessment on the health of your system, and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision as to whether air conditioning repair in Plano, TX is justifiable, or if the best solution for your situation is replacing it. 

Electrical issues are common problems for aging HVAC systems. Contactors wear out, capacitors and motors can fail. While these problems can receive air conditioning repair in Plano, TX, routine maintenance can prevent failed components in certain situations. 

For example, maintenance will eventually involve the need for cleaning of the coils. In split systems, the evaporator coil is located indoors in the cabinet with the air filter. When the coil becomes excessively soiled, water may not properly drain into the evaporator tray. Instead, it can drain on your flooring, and components within the HVAC system, causing damage to both. 

There is also the fact that a dirty coil can result in the loss of cooling. These issues are all a candidate for air conditioning repair in Plano, TX, as long as repair isn’t delayed to the point of system corroding due to increased moisture. Routine maintenance, will assure these problems will not occur.

As previously stated, there are advantages to installing a new system. The new system provides a longer warranty than air conditioning repair in Plano, TX. In addition, the contractor will have fewer air conditioning service calls with a new system. Proper repair requires a skilled technician to spend time troubleshooting the problem, which can involve time for the change out of a $2,000 AC compressor and other failed components. A number of homeowner’s will be more satisfied with the installation of a reliable new system, rather than continuing to invest money into an aged system with a future of continued repair, and the potential of waiting for weeks on parts to be shipped, when they are even still in manufacture.

If you would like an honest opinion on your existing HVAC system’s condition and remaining lifespan, give us a call, we will be glad to help you in the decision to repair or replace. In order to maintain our standards of excellence around the clock, Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s certified technicians offer 24-hour emergency service. Give us a call when you need heating or air conditioning repair in Plano, TX, Katy and the surrounding areas. We are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating. Our technicians have a commitment to excellence, and to your satisfaction.

 

Saving Energy | Air Conditioning Repair Katy

When your home’s air conditioner fails in the August heat, air conditioning repair in Katy is not an option, but a necessity. The following tips will help you to be more comfortable while you wait for the technician, and when used throughout the summer, will save money by saving energy:

Use Fans to Circulate Air

While fans will not actually reduce the room temperature, they will help you to feel cooler. Place ceiling fans on counter clockwise rotation for the summer. Fans will increase your comfort while you wait for air conditioning repair in Katy.

Close the Curtains 

Closing the curtains and blinds will assist in keeping the heat out. They act as an insulating layer against heat, and assists in blocking the sun, and the heat gain it can cause in a room. The installation of solar reflective film (also called low-e films) on windows will block up to 99% of the suns UV rays. The film will protect your furnishings from fading, and the heat from UV rays will not enter through the windows. 

When shopping for window film, read the details as it is not all created equally. Ultimately, solar reflective window film will make your home cooler, reducing wear and tear on the HVAC system, and consequently reducing the frequency of air conditioning repair in Katy.

Time Activities

Cooking increases the home’s temperature, and causes the. Cook and use the clothes dryer early in the morning or late in the evening. Better yet, plan hot weather foods such as cool salads, sandwiches or cook in the microwave. Use the dishwasher late in the evenings before bedtime, and shower with a slightly cooler shower temperature. These tips also save on energy costs and help you to avoid peak time electrical rates.

Keep Doors and Windows Closed During the Heat of the Day

During the summer, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible during the heat of the day. Check caulking and seals for air leaks. The repair of seals will prevent hot air intrusion, and assist in reducing the cost of air conditioning the home.

HVAC Maintenance

Change or clean (depending on the type) the air filter on a monthly basis unless the system manufacturer recommends otherwise. With a routine filter change, the air conditioner will perform better, operate efficiently, and will last longer with less need for air conditioning repair in Katy.

Professional annual maintenance of the heating and air conditioning system ensures peak performance and an extended lifespan of the system. 

AC Replacement

When your home’s air conditioning in Katy, TX is experiencing frequent breakdowns, investing in a new Energy Star approved air conditioning installation will lower the electric bill and provide reliability. Today’s HVAC systems have greater energy efficiency even last year’s system. A Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning professional will be glad to assist you when you need a new installation or air conditioning repair in Katy.

Additional Energy Saving Tips

• Adding insulation to the attic can reduce the amount of heat transferring from the attic space to the rooms below.
• An attic fan will pull hot air out of the attic, while pulling in cooler air from the opposite end of the home. A cooler attic provides a cooler environment in the rooms below.
• When it comes time for a new roof, consider the installation of a cool roof. A white solar reflective roof reflects the sun’s heat away from the roof, providing a cooler attic, and cooler living space in the rooms beneath it.
• Install a programmable thermostat for precise temperature control, and energy saving features. If you have ever forgotten to adjust the thermostat before you leave home, a programmable thermostat ensures it will never happen again. Though features vary by model, the programmable thermostat offers a number of ways to help save energy. 
• High humidity can make it feel hotter than the actual air temperature. While central air conditioning removes moisture from the air, the system alone may not be able to reduce extreme humidity to the recommended comfort level of 30-50%. 

A whole house de-humidifier will reduce humidity, and provide maximum comfort. Furthermore, you can adjust the thermostat up, without sacrificing comfort. 

• Ensure the HVAC system is the proper size by using a qualified contractor, such as Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning. A proper size system provides optimal comfort, maximum efficiency, and the longest service life possible. Under or oversized systems create discomfort year round, elevated energy bills, experience premature wear, and require frequent heating and air conditioning repair in Katy.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning is the trusted source for professional heating and air conditioning services. Whether you need maintenance for helping you on saving energy, installation or air conditioning repair in Katy, our certified and experienced technicians will provide professional quality services, and your guaranteed satisfaction. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Troubleshooting AC | AC Blowing Warm Air

Home air conditioning systems contain a number of components dependent upon each other for the proper function of the unit. When one part malfunctions, the entire unit can fail to perform its job of maintaining your comfort. The AC blowing warm air is a common complaint. The following is a list of common causes of this problem and tips for troubleshooting the AC:

Refrigerant Leak

Refrigerant leaks are a common cause of the AC blowing warm air. Faulty service valves or wear and tear on the system due to age may be the cause of leaks. Leak repair and recharging the system should only be provided by a certified HVAC technician to ensure proper performance and the lifespan of the system.

Other problems that can be the cause of the AC blowing warm air include dirty coils, excessively dirty air filters, improper thermostat settings, tripped breakers and faulty components. 

Thermostat Settings

Homeowner’s will occasionally turn off the “cool” function to place the AC on the fan only. The fan may have been placed on manual to air the home, or to assist in pulling out the smoke from a burned dinner dish. The problem comes in when they fail to return the settings to the cool function and the fan from manual to automatic. 

Without the air conditioning operating in this situation, the system blows room temperature air throughout the home, and the homeowner may have forgotten to change the thermostat settings, or may even be unaware of the change if another family member provided it. 

This is the reason to first check the thermostat settings first, when the problem of the AC blowing warm air occurs. Ensure the fan is on “auto”, rather than “manual”, and that the setting is on “cool” rather than “off”. The solution to prevent this is to use a programmable thermostat, which allows temporary changes, and reverts to programmed changes on its own.

Furthermore, a thermostat will eventually wear out and perform poorly. A Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning professional can diagnose the cause of the AC blowing warm air, and provide the repair, or new installation that you need.

Tripped Breaker

A tripped breaker can shut off the central air conditioning units cooling function. Typically, when this occurs in the home’s electrical main and the AC will not do anything at all. 

However, when the system has breakers of its own incorporated inside the indoor blower, or an outdoor breaker box located near the condenser, a tripped breaker can prevent cooling while allowing the fan to continue to run. This is dependent upon the individual system, its components, and the system’s design. 

Ensure the AC breaker in your home’s electrical panel has not tripped. If so, turn it back on and check for cooling. Power surges or a problem within the system can cause this breaker to shut off. When the breaker continues to trip an electrical problem is present, or the breaker itself may be bad. Contact your HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair of your home’s air conditioning system.

If the breaker in the home’s electrical panel does not appear to be the problem, check the breakers in the cabinet where the blower is located if present, or outdoors in a breaker box located near the condenser. Otherwise, call for AC repair from a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning professional.

Filters

An excessively dirty air filter can prevent the AC from drawing the air it requires. In some systems, when this occurs a breaker is tripped shutting off the power in order to protect the compressor, and depending upon the system features, the blower fan may continue to blow, resulting in the AC blowing warm air. Without the protective feature, a dirty filter can cause the system to overheat, and can cause compressor failure. For this reason, change the air filters as recommended without fail.

Dirty Coils

Over time the coils become soiled and the proper operation of the system declines, and can result in the AC blowing warm air. Annual maintenance on the system will provide inspection of all components including the coil. The technician will identify a dirty coil, and provide the necessary cleaning. Proper filter changes assist in preventing this, but eventually the coils are likely to need cleaning. Dirty coils can also cause the system to leak water out onto the floor, as can a stopped up drain line. 

A Broken Compressor

A failed compressor can cause the AC blowing warm air, and is a frequent reason for homeowner’s to opt for a new air conditioning installation. 

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s experienced and certified technicians provide professional HVAC services . When your home’s AC is blowing warm air, and you were unable to resolve the issue with these tips for troubleshooting the AC, call our dedicated professionals for air conditioning repair. Our technicians provide professional quality repair and installation – guaranteed. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating. 

Heat Pumps | Heating and Air Conditioning

Heat pumps can provide energy-efficient heating and air conditioning for your home. However, proper sizing, installation and maintenance (such as changing the air filter routinely) are essential factors in assuring you receive the performance and efficiency you expect from it.   

Air Filters | Air Conditioning Service

When it comes to your home’s heating and air conditioning system, you want it to last as long as possible, and to perform optimally in order to save you money on energy. The homeowner has two responsibility’s in ensuring both – providing routine filter changes, and ensuring annual heating and air conditioning service by your HVAC technician.

Filters assist in providing cleaner air in your home, though its actual purpose is to keep the HVAC system clean and trouble free. The recommended type of filter and the frequency of filter changes are dependent upon the type of filter the system uses, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Otherwise, change the filter each month to reduce wear and tear, and prevent an increased need for air conditioning service.

Air filters capture dust and grit that can potentially damage the home’s heating and air conditioning system. In addition, excessively dirty filters block normal airflow to the system, and reduce its efficiency by as much as 15%. Inadequate airflow places the system in a strain, resulting in premature wear, and can result in damage to components including the compressor. 

Compressor failure is a common 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.

The air filter “cleans” the air moving through it, and depending upon the type of filter used, can remove dust, dust mites, pollen and other contaminates from the air. Air filters are not “one-type-fits-all”. For example, a system able to use a HEPA filter is designed to do so efficiently without risking damage. Other systems may not be engineered to draw air through a HEPA filter, and can result in premature wear and tear, and/or damage to your system. 

These are reasons to ensure you are using the appropriate filter for your system. If you are uncertain of the necessary filter, or if your system can benefit from the use of a HEPA, contact the system’s manufacturer.

While the recommended frequency of filter changes or cleaning varies, any filter may require an increased frequency under specific circumstances, such as the following:

• Remodeling of the home or nearby construction resulting in an increase of dust
• Pets in the home will increase dust and dander
• The use of a fireplace or wood heater will increase dust and particulates
• High pollen counts in the spring can cause the need for an increased frequency of filter changes or cleaning
• A smoker in the home results in the need for more frequent changes, ask them to smoke outside
• A family member with allergies, asthma, COPD, or other respiratory issues require cleaner air

If any of these are relevant to your home, check the filter every 2 weeks and change/clean as required, but no less than once per month.

Remember, annual heating and air conditioning service by a certified HVAC technician will ensure the lifespan, optimal performance and efficiency of the heating and air conditioning system.

Furthermore, the area surrounding the outdoor condenser should be clean and free of clutter. 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 and prevent damage.

Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule air conditioning service. Our certified technicians offer experience and expertise for your HVAC needs. 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.

Central Air Conditioning | Air Conditioning Installation

With routine annual maintenance, monthly air filter changes/cleaning and prompt repair when required, central air conditioning systems can last from 10 to 15 years, or even longer. While you may be reluctant to spend the initial cost for a new central air conditioner, you will save in the end with increased reliability and energy savings. If you are in need of a new air conditioning installation, contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s NATE certified professionals today. 

Energy Efficiency 

When shopping for an energy-efficient central air conditioner, you will need to know the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER), which indicates how much energy a model uses to produce a specific cooling output. The higher the number, the more energy efficient it will be. 

New 2015 energy efficiency standards by the Environmental Protection Agency require a minimum SEER rating of 14 for the State of Texas. The amount of your savings will depend upon the SEER of the existing central air conditioning. For example, if the existing unit has a SEER of 13, you will save approximately 7.2% in electrical costs. If the existing unit has a SEER of 9, your savings will be approximately 35 percent less electricity. As you can see, replacing older units with a new air conditioning installation can lead to significant savings. 

For maximum energy savings, and the greatest reliability, choose ENERGY STAR certified heating and air conditioning equipment. Even if your air conditioner is only 5 years old, you can save 20% to 40% off the cost of cooling when properly installed.

Tips for Selecting a New Central Air Conditioner

The following are a few tips on what you should look for in a central air conditioner:

1. Selecting the correct size for your home is essential when it comes to a new central air conditioning installation. If the unit is undersized, it will be overworked trying to cool your home, which can result in higher electric bills and damage to components, and a reduced lifespan. Furthermore, it is likely to be unable to cool your home sufficiently on hot days. 

On the other hand, when the unit is too large for the home, it will cycle on and off too quickly, preventing the unit from adequately removing humidity from the air, making the home uncomfortable, prone to develop mold, and can damage components. 

The properly sized air conditioner for your home will provide the performance, operating life and energy efficiency you expect from a new purchase. The right size is determined upon a number of factors such as square footage, quality of insulation, quality of windows and doors, shade and type of trees, and many other considerations that are essential to consider for proper sizing. 

2. Look for an air conditioner with an variable speed air handler for new ventilation systems, and an automatic-delay fan switch that turns off the fan a few minutes after the compressor turns off for energy savings with your new air conditioning installation.

3. Consider a variable speed compressor, and trim up to 40% off your energy costs.

4. Consider a programmable thermostat, and save up to 20% on energy costs year round.

Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for professional air conditioning installation, and/or repair of your central air conditioning. Our certified technicians provide prompt, professional services you can rely upon, and are dedicated to your satisfaction. We offer emergency service 24 hours a day, seven days a week for your convenience. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning professionals serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and is a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

AC Tips | AC Repair Katy

The following tips address issues not routinely covered in AC tips:

1. 1. While the outside air conditioning unit is designed to sit outdoors, windblown debris, children, pets, and rocks or sticks thrown by the lawnmower onto the unit can cause damage and/or compression of the fins. The result is the loss of cooling efficiency. A fin comb, and patience will straighten the fins out, or contact a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning technician to provide this AC repair in Katy for you.
2. 2. Lightning strikes, power surges, and other causes of electrical outages can burn out the air conditioner, your appliances’ and electronics. Whole House surge protection can provide protection for your AC unit, appliances, and sensitive electronic equipment. If you suspect your air conditioning has sustained damage from a storm, or power surges, turn the unit off, and call a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning technician for AC repair in Katy.
3. 3. Homeowner’s often ask whether the doors of unused rooms should be closed or open. The answer depends upon whether the doors are undercut, and if the amount is adequate. Closing the door seals off the room from the airflow, and with cold air entering the room from registers, over time the pressure will build up inside the room. As the pressure builds, cold air will find an outlet through cracks and crevices. Once cold air leaks outside the home, an equal amount of outside air is drawn into the home. 

Air will seek the easiest path into the home, and this may be flues and chimneys. This may result in dangerous carbon monoxide being drawn into the home. In addition, incoming outdoor air forces the air conditioner, to work against the incoming air. The result is a loss of energy efficiency, discomfort in the closed room with reduced airflow from the registers, increased energy bills, and unnecessary wear on the system resulting in the increased frequency of AC repair in Katy. Leaving the doors open is effective in preventing unwanted drafts.

Unfortunately, leaving the doors open all of the time is not feasible, especially in bedrooms. An alternative is to undercut the doors, allowing space for air to move through the room. The recommended amount should be determined by your HVAC technician. 

1. 4. Are you receiving all of the efficiency you expected from your new system? A number of homeowners actually will save 25% to 50% on the utility bill after installing a new system. Unfortunately, buying a high efficient air conditioner is not a guarantee that you will. The problem is not the system; it is the installer or the duct system in your home. Recent research indicates a number of homeowners are only receiving half of the heating or cooling they are capable of. 
2. 5. According to the EPA, “…newly installed heating and cooling systems that are under or over-sized, improperly charged, or connected to a poorly designed and installed duct system will not deliver the rated efficiency.”

This means your HVAC system may be undersized, or oversized for your home; the duct system may have design flaws, or is in need of sealing and/or repair; and the new system may be improperly installed.

Unfortunately, a number of homeowners believe a bigger system is better. An oversized system will result in an uncomfortable home, uneven room temperatures, increased humidity, higher energy costs. In addition, it can result in premature wear, and an increased frequency of heating and AC repair in Katy. 

If the previous appropriately sized 3-ton unit failed from the start to cool your home, consider necessary duct repairs, which can account for a loss of up to 40% of conditioned air. Furthermore, bringing insulation up to code, and sealing air leaks in the home will save energy, increase your comfort, and reduce the size system required, which will also save you money. 

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers expert technicians who provide professional installation, heating and AC repair in Katy, maintenance, and other HVAC services. We hope you found these AC Tips informative. When you need AC repair in Katy that you can rely upon, give us a call. We are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Programmable Thermostat | Heating and Air Conditioning

Reasons to Replace a Manual Thermostat

Replacing a manual thermostat is one of the simplest changes you can make to your heating and air conditioning system for saving energy. If you have a manual thermostat, there are a number of reasons to upgrade to a programmable thermostat. While features will vary slightly between brands and models, in the following overview we will look at some of the most popular, and those that are common.

Precise Control and Accuracy

Conventional manual thermostats cannot offer the accuracy of a programmable thermostat. For example, you may set the air conditioning at 76 degrees, and according to the thermostat’s thermometer, it may be 77 degrees in the home, and the HVAC system is not operating. A programmable thermostat will provide greater accuracy, precise control and a comfortable home.

Reduce Energy Bills

Programmable thermostats allow you to program temperature according to time and day. This feature is convenient for homeowners with set schedules. Programmable thermostats enable you to program the temperature to be higher during the summer when no one is home, and to program the unit to reduce the temperature before you return home. The feature saves you money on the cost of energy by reducing the run time of the system while you are away.    

According to energy.gov, you can save up to 1% for every degree you adjust the thermostat. Wi-Fi enabled programmable thermostats allow adjustments to through a smart phone, tablet, or computer. This feature is convenient for persons whose schedules are subject to change. 

Improve Maintenance and System Performance

Specific models of programmable thermostats are capable of providing advanced information on the heating and air conditioning system’s performance, including when to change the filter, the need for maintenance and performance alerts. By providing routine maintenance, and the system’s performance, and lifespan will be optimal, and will reduce the frequency for air conditioning repair in Katy.  

Convenience and Comfort

Smart thermostats collect historical information about room temperatures and preferences, resulting in a greater comfort level. Specific models of smart thermostats “learn” over time, providing an option for those of us who find “smart technology” complicated. Unfortunately, they can be difficult for some users to program. Thermostats with the capabilities to “learn” on their own, are an option, and a convenience for those who do not want to spend a lot of time learning how to program an advanced thermostat. Smart thermostats (depending upon the model) can sense when occupants are away, and adjust the temperature accordingly for energy efficient operation of the heating and air conditioning system while you are away. 

The convenience is a big factor for many homeowners. Almost everyone forgets to adjust the thermostat at some time, and a programmable thermostat stops the waste of energy. Once you set the parameters of your schedule, temperature adjustments are automatically provided winter and summer, to your heating and air conditioning system.

Potential Rebates

Some energy companies, state and local programs may provide a rebate or credit dependent upon your location. If eligible, these can assist in offsetting the initial cost of the unit.

Location

Remember, all thermostats require a location on an interior wall away from direct sunlight, drafts, doorways, skylights, and windows to provide accurate operation. Furthermore, do not place furniture in front of the thermostat. This will block natural air movement and result in poor performance. When selecting a programmable thermostat, ensure a convenient location for programming, our technicians will be glad to recommend optimal locations when relocating a thermostat. 

Contact a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning heating and air conditioning professional for additional information. Our NATE certified HVAC technicians are available to assist you in selecting the programmable thermostat right for your heating and air conditioning system. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating. Our dedicated technicians offer convenient 24-hour emergency services.

Indoor Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning

Heating and air conditioning systems do more than control room temperature. The HVAC system affects the indoor air quality in the home. Indoor air quality can affect your health.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air often contains a higher concentration of pollution than outdoor air! Adequate ventilation reduces indoor pollutants by diluting emissions from indoor sources, and by carrying indoor air pollutants out of the home. High temperature and humidity levels can also increase concentrations of some air contaminants.

Sources of Indoor Air Quality Problems

The EPA has identified a number of sources of indoor air pollution in homes. These include:

• Dust, mold and other allergens can spread throughout the home, often through the home’s duct system
• Dangerous outdoor sources of radon and pesticides can enter your home
• Combustion sources such as oil, coal, wood and tobacco products produce dangerous carbon monoxide and potentially deadly gases
• Carpets, linoleum, paint, air fresheners, household cleaning products, pressed wood furniture, cabinetry and other building materials can produce high levels of toxins  

Ventilation

Newer homes are built to be tighter to increase energy efficiency. Consequently, the home may have higher pollutant levels than older homes. When the amount of fresh outdoor air entering a home is inadequate, air contaminants can accumulate to levels that can pose a threat to your health.

Indoor Pollution and Health Effects

General symptoms common to poor indoor air quality include unexplained headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Carbon monoxide poisoning can kill in minutes, and is often the result of faulty equipment or ventilation pipes. Other long-term effects from indoor air pollution may include chronic respiratory diseases, heart disease, or even cancer.

Signs that your home may not have adequate ventilation include moisture condensation on windows or walls, a musty odor, dirty heating and air conditioning equipment, and the presence of mold. 

Biological Contaminants

According to the EPA, biological contaminants that affect a home’s air quality include bacteria, molds, mildew, viruses, animal dander, dust mites, cockroaches, pollen, and others. The protein in urine from rodents is a powerful allergen, and once it dries, it can become airborne. Contaminated air handlers in your home’s heating and air conditioning system can incubate mold, mildew, and other sources of biological contaminants and can distribute these contaminants through the home. Professional duct cleaning can prevent this source of pollution.

Controlling a home’s relative humidity minimizes the growth of some biological pollutants. A relative humidity of 30-50 percent is the ideal recommendation for homes. Standing water, saturated materials, or wet surfaces are a breeding ground for mold, mildew, bacteria, and insects. Dust mites are powerful allergens and thrive in damp, warm environments. The repair of leaks and humidity control can assist in preventing these issues.

Indoor Air Quality Solutions

Fortunately, you do have options to ensure that the air quality of your home is pollutant-free.

• Eliminate individual sources of pollution such as smoking, wood or coal burning stoves. Use natural cleaning products, and remove harmful products.
• Improve ventilation by opening windows and doors when weather permits. Run bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans, and operate window or attic fans when weather permits.
• Several add-ons and modifications are available for heating and air conditioning systems that will filter out contaminants and improve air quality. Routine filter changes can assist in keeping indoor air cleaner, and will benefit the heating and air conditioning system by keeping damaging dust out of the system. 
• Maintaining a clean home will reduce many of the contaminants in a home. Routine dusting, vacuuming, and cleaning prevents mold, reduces dust mites, and dust.

A HEPA filter will remove up to 99% of contaminants from the air moving through the system. If you are not sure if it is safe to use a HEPA filter in your home’s heating and air conditioning equipment, contact your system’s manufacturer, or your Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning technician.

FORMALDEHYDE

Formaldehyde is a chemical used widely in the manufacture of building materials and numerous household products. It may be present in high concentrations both indoors and outdoors.

Sources of formaldehyde in the home include glues and adhesives, and as a preservative in some paints and coating products. Pressed wood products are a significant source of formaldehyde, and are constructed using adhesives that contain urea-formaldehyde (UF) resins. Pressed wood products include particleboard, hardwood plywood paneling, cabinets, and furniture; medium density fiberboard used in furniture. Medium density fiberboard (MDF) is recognized as being the source of high formaldehyde emissions. 

Installation

If your home’s heating or air conditioning system is an older one, your home could benefit with improved energy efficiency and improved air quality with the installation of a new system. Aging heating and air conditioning systems can be breeding grounds for bacteria, allergens and mold. Today’s heating and air conditioning systems typically feature advanced temperature, humidity controls, and filtration systems to maintain ideal conditions and remove airborne pollution.

Solutions

Some popular solutions for poor indoor air quality include:

• HEPA Air Purifiers
• UV Air Purifiers
• Air Exchangers
• Humidifiers
• Dehumidifiers

Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for additional information. Our certified HVAC technicians will provide a comprehensive in-home evaluation, and determine which type of product will be most beneficial for your home’s indoor air quality.

If you are concerned about the indoor air quality in your home, contact a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning representative. Our comfort specialists work with you to design a heating and air conditioning solution that can deliver both comfort and optimal air quality. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and is a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Air Conditioning Service

While there are numerous HVAC providers offering services in the Katy/Plano area, it is important to consider that the quality of repairs and HVAC service received will affect the system’s performance, and efficiency. The heating and air conditioning system is an essential part of your home, and it is critical that a licensed and experienced service provider be utilized for all installations, repairs, as well as other heating and air conditioning service.

Installation and Replacement

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s Nate certified professionals can have a new air conditioner installed quickly and professionally. However, we also offer a full range of heating and air conditioning service, including air conditioning repair and maintenance. 

Excessive Humidity

Anyone living in the southern states knows that excessive humidity can cause discomfort during the muggy summers. Humidity increases the air conditioning system’s workload, causing it to work harder. During the summer, high humidity causes it to feel hotter than it actually is.

When the humidity is too high or too low, you will be uncomfortable. While air conditioning extracts moisture from the air as a direct result of its cooling process, extremely high levels of humidity may leave moisture behind, affecting your comfort. When the HVAC system requires assistance in humidity control, humidifiers and dehumidifiers will provide the control required to maintain your comfort. When you need air conditioning service, a Cypress HVAC technician offers a professional solution. Signs of excess humidity include:

• Damp, clammy air
• Foggy windows
• Musty odors
• Mold and mildew

Receive Financing

If your home needs a replacement heating and air conditioning system, and the upfront costs of a new system are intimidating, Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers financing.

We offer both residential and commercial HVAC services for our customers. Our technicians provide the best services possible by meeting or exceeding the industry standards.   

Carrier products are trusted in more homes and businesses than any other brand. To assure you receive the heating and air conditioning system your home needs, we offer a variety of flexible financing options through Wells Fargo Financial National Bank. Financing provides the following:

• Low monthly payments
• Preferred interest rates
• Flexible terms

To find out the financing options available to you, contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning.

When considering air conditioning replacement in Katy, Plano or the surrounding areas, choosing a qualified, professional air conditioning contractor is an essential factor in ensuring the optimal performance and energy efficiency of your HVAC system. Of course, the best way to ensure you receive quality air conditioning service is to hire a trusted professional air conditioning contractor for installation, repairs, and maintenance. 

Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for professional air conditioning service you can rely upon. Our certified technicians provide prompt, professional service, and are dedicated to your satisfaction. We offer emergency service 24 hours a day, seven days a week for your convenience. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning professionals serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and is a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.