HVAC | Air Conditioning Service

HVAC is a common abbreviation that many people associate with their home’s heating and air conditioning system, but there is actually a third component to it. The term HVAC is short for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s licensed, certified technicians are standing by to provide the heating and air conditioning service you need.

HVAC Controls Your Comfort

The majority of us spend more time indoors than outside. With professional annual heating and air conditioning service, your home’sHVAC equipment helps to provide a higher standard of indoor air quality, and a comfortable environment. Air conditioning controls temperature and reduces humidity during the summer for a healthier and more comfortable environment that could otherwise contain mold, mildew, an increased level of dust mites, as well as being an uncomfortable environment.  

Indoor Air Quality 

According to the EPA, the indoor air quality in many U.S. homes is as much as 5 times worse than the air outside them. This is partially due to homes being constructed tighter to conserve energy. You may be wondering where the indoor pollution comes from. The following are some of the potential sources: 

• The combustion of fossil fuels, such as a gas furnace or a gas water heater is a potential source of deadly carbon monoxide and other exhaust gases. Under normal circumstances, gas-burning equipment vents hazardous carbon monoxide to the outside of the home. It is only when a problem occurs such as a crack in the combustion chamber, or a clogged ventilation pipe to the furnace or water heater, that exhaust fumes and/or gas leaks can create a dangerous hazard in your home. Annual maintenance and inspection of your heating system, and the water heater will ensure proper operation, and safety.  
• Poor ventilation of the home can result in mold, and result in the buildup of chemical vapors in the home. Chemicals that contribute to hazardous air are air fresheners, cleaning products, chemical containing agents from crafts and hobbies, and personal care products, for example. 

• Allergens, pollen, smoke from wood fires and tobacco use, bacteria, mold, dust and dirty ductwork can adversely affect your health. The very young, the aged, and those with heart, lung or immune system disorders are especially vulnerable. Air purification systems may assist you in providing cleaner air for your home. Maintaining an exceptionally clean home, and opening a window or door when the weather allows can assist in diluting polluted air and providing a fresh source of cleaner air. Routine heating and air conditioning service will assure your HVAC system.
• Cracks and gaps around electrical, cables and pipes, and plumbing penetrations can allow contaminated air from crawlspaces and attics to enter the interior of the home. Seal around penetrations with expanding foam or caulk. However, ventilation pipes that exhaust hot gases require specialized heat tolerant sealant.

Best Practices to Improve the Indoor Environment 

To create a healthier home environment, provide the following:

1. 1. Provide professional annual heating and air conditioning service. The annual service ensures proper performance, the best efficiency, ensures your safety, and prolongs the system’s lifespan. Sceheduling annual heating and air conditioning service call is one of the most important actions you can take to ensure performance and your safety. Your Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning technician will provide a comprehensive examination of the system and test for carbon monoxide and other hazards.
2. 2. When new heating and air conditioning equipment is being installed, ensure proper installation by using a licensed, experienced contractor. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning provides licensed, NATE certified installers to ensure an installation that meets and/or exceeds the industry standards. 
3. 3. Change the air filter every month or as recommended by the HVAC system manufacturer. A number of programmable thermostats can provide a warning, or in the case of a WIFI enabled thermostat, notify you when it’s time to change the filter. 
4. 4. Inspect the attic to ensure the vents are not blocked in order to assure adequate ventilation, preventing mold and mildew from developing.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning provides expert heating and air conditioning service for your HVAC needs. Give us a call to schedule your annual service, heating and AC repair in Katy, installation or other services. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating. 

HVAC Thermostat | Air Conditioning Repair Katy

Thermostat Upgrades Improve Performance and Efficiency

You can have an HVAC system featuring the highest technology and performance available, but without the appropriate thermostat, and a functional one, you will receive reduced performance and comfort. In fact, a faulty HVAC thermostat can cause issues with your system, giving the appearance of the need for heating and air conditioning repair in Katy. The thermostat controls your system, and when it is in need of calibration or replacement, you can expect to see issues such as running too long, or not cutting on when it should. It may even fail to start the system at all.

Thermostat Miscalibration Costs Money

A miscalibrated thermostat reads indoor temperatures incorrectly. Consequently, it will incorrectly control the system. These miscalibrations have the potential to increase the energy bill significantly, and create discomfort in your home. If you suspect your thermostat needs repair or replacement, or that your system has a problem, contact a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning professional for heating and air conditioning repair in Katy.

Improperly Located Thermostats

A thermostat is ideally placed in a central location of the home away from direct sunlight and drafts. When improperly located, the thermostat will read higher or lower temperatures than it should, and this will make the system run when it shouldn’t. An improperly located thermostat will need to be relocated. 

Replacing an Outdated Thermostat

All thermostats will eventually require replacement. Thermostats that use sliders or dials are outdated and inaccurate. Upgrading to even a basic digital thermostat will improve the system’s performance and efficiency. A programmable thermostat can provide even greater savings due to the variety of features some models offer. These features result in significant savings, while extending the lifespan of your home’s heating and air conditioning system.  

Programmable thermostats enable you to provide a comfortable home without wasting energy, or creating unnecessary wear that can result in increased heating and air conditioning repair in Katy. A programmable thermostat enables you to program the temperature you want at different times. For example, you can program the thermostat to warm the home just before you get up in the morning. It can also lower the temperature while all occupants are away to work and school, and warm the house just before you arrive. You can select a thermostat with a vacation function while you are away. 

At the top of system control and home convenience are the new smart thermostats. Some are “learning thermostats” able to develop a schedule based on the settings you provide in the first weeks. 

Others you program yourself for immediate control over the homes environment. While features and functions vary according to brand and model, other feature examples include the ability to work with humidification and dehumidification systems, lights and security systems, to name a few. Furthermore, the WIFI capability of some programmable thermostats enables you to make changes remotely. If you would like new thermostat installation, or need other heating and air conditioning repair in Katy, give our certified professionals a call.

Upgrading your home’s HVAC thermostat will maximize your comfort and energy savings without further effort from you. If you would like to learn more about Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s heating services in Katy give us a call. Our certified technicians provide installation, maintenance, heating and air conditioning repair in Katy, and emergency services for all of your residential or commercial HVAC needs. We are available 24/7 for your convenience. Our service area includes Katy, Plano, and the surrounding areas. We are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Heat Pump | Air Conditioning Katy, TX

A heat pump does double duty by cooling in the summer, and warming in the winter. A heat pump provides only one system to install, maintain, repair, or replace. Today’s heat pump is more efficient that earlier models and is available in a variety of choices in efficiency, capacity, features, and types from the standard air-source heat pump, to the mini-split, and the geothermal heat pump. If you need a new HVAC system, and are considering a heat pump for your home’s heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX, give Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s dedicated experts a call.

Once limited to moderate climates, modern heat pumps use newer refrigerants that work to 0F degrees. As a result, they will heat in colder climates than previous models that relied on auxiliary heat below 37F degrees. 

Saving money on energy is even easier when you purchase a heat pump with a zoned system. The mini-split heat pump uses zones, allowing you to control temperatures in individual rooms or zone. This is in contrast to a typical furnace or central air conditioner, where the entire home is heated, or cooled to a single temperature. 

Efficiency of the Modern Heat Pump

The efficiency and performance of modern air-source heat pumps has greatly improved since your grandfather’s day. This is possible through technological advances such as:

• Variable speed blowers have higher efficiency, and offer greater comfort than a single speed blower provides. In addition, they offer greater humidity control during the summer’s use air conditioning in Katy, TX. 
• Two-stage and variable speed compressors increase efficiency, comfort, and improve humidity control in the cooling mode. 

Heating efficiency for air-source heat pumps is indicated by the heating season performance factor (HSPF). The HSPF rates both the efficiency of the heat pump system, and the use of electric heat strips. The most efficient heat pumps have an HSPF of between 8 and 10.

Cooling efficiency is indicated by the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). The most efficient heat pump systems have SEERs of between 16 and 33. Choose the highest SEER your budget allows for the highest efficiency of your home’s air conditioning in Katy, TX.

Insisting on an Oversized Unit is a Big Mistake

Don’t allow yourself to be drawn into believing bigger is better, because when it comes to your home’s heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX, insisting on a larger system than you need is a big mistake. An oversized AC system will only run for a short time before bringing your home’s interior temperature down fast. It is called short cycling, and will cost you more to operate, and can result in the premature failure of the system.

An oversized system may bring the interior temperature down to 72F degrees, for example, but you are sitting in your chair sweating. This is due to the ability of humidity to make you feel hotter than it really is. When an air conditioner operates, it is removing humidity from the air. Short cycling results in the system cutting off before the humidity is adequately removed, resulting in your discomfort and potential mold. 

Selecting a qualified HVAC company and trusting their analysis of the system you require can prevent receiving the wrong size unit for your home. Just because your home has a 4-ton unit doesn’t mean it is the system needed. One in four homes has wrongly sized heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX systems, and most are oversized. 

Furthermore, you have to consider the new refrigerants operate with more effectively than the older types. They tolerate colder temperatures, and may even result in the requirement of a smaller – and therefore less costly, system than the existing HVAC. This is especially true if you have provided new energy upgrades such as adding insulation. 

Maintenance

If you haven’t already scheduled your annual maintenance and tune up, give us a call today. Annual maintenance ensures the proper operation and efficiency of a of your home’s heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX. The cost of operating a system lacking maintenance can be 25% or more. Furthermore, the lack of maintenance increases the need for heating, and AC repair in Katy. 

In addition to the provision of annual or bi-annual maintenance, the single most important factor in the care of any HVAC system, including a heat pump, is changing the filter monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer. Dirty air filters will result in dirty coils, ducts, fans, poor air quality, decreased performance, and reduced efficiency. 

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s NATE certified HVAC technicians provide exceptional service you can rely on. Our experienced professionals offer a wide range of services for your heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX. If you are considering a heat pump installation, 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.

Heating and Air Conditioning

When purchasing a new furnace, there are a number of features to consider. Today’s furnace offers the option of single-stage, two-stage and modulating, or variable speed furnaces. Your selection of these will affect your home’s energy bill, and your comfort. A look at each of these furnaces can assist you in the decision of selecting a new furnace for your home. Give us a call for additional information in the selection of a furnace, or the installation of a new heating and air conditioning system.

Single-Stage Furnace

The single stage furnace operates at full-powered capacity at all times. It operates with a consistent output of maximum capacity with no in between setting to reduce fuel use or airflow. A single stage furnace refers to the valve that controls the amount of fuel entering the burner. It is either open when the burner operates, or closed when the heat is off. It typically offers a lower upfront cost than the higher efficiency options provided by two-stage and modulating furnaces. Our certified heating and air conditioning experts’ can assist you in selecting the furnace best for your priorities, needs and budget.

Two-Stage Furnace

The two-stage gas furnace operates at either low or high capacity, although they actually have three positions, fully open, partially open, and closed. The lower setting operates with the fuel valve partially open and continues when the temperatures are milder. On cold winter days when heating requirements are higher, the two-stage furnace moves into the high stage in order to meet a home’s heating needs. When operating at the lower capacity, the energy consumption is reduced, saving you money on the cost of energy. Furthermore, most two-stage furnaces use variable-speed blowers to match the capacity of the burner, increasing comfort and reducing energy use.

Two-stage furnaces are more energy efficient because they are not continually operating at 100 percent capacity, as a single stage furnace will. In addition, two-stage furnaces operate quieter than single-stage furnaces, and contribute less pollution to the environment, reducing your home’s carbon footprint. These are all reasons why the two-stage furnace is a popular option. Contact our heating and air conditioning professionals’ for additional information. 

Modulating Furnace

The burner in a modulating furnace operates differently from single-stage and two-stage furnaces. Modulating furnaces operate in a variety of stages, offering the variability you need for precise control of the heating required. 

When a modulating furnace fires up when the home is cold, it operates at its highest heating stage, with the blower also running at the highest speed, delivering the maximum level of heat. Once the home warms up, the burner stage drops to level required, along with the blower speed, providing the precise level of heating required. A modulating furnace, or variable speed furnace, provides superior energy efficiency and comfort for your home. Modulating furnaces are a preferred choice for those whose priority is superior energy efficiency, and the highest comfort level. Contact our heating and air conditioning professionals for additional information.

Summary

If you are still wondering which unit is right for you, consider your priorities. When saving money is a priority, single-stage furnaces can provide the heating and budgeting you need. Some models have features for providing additional energy savings and comfort features.  

Two-stage furnaces are a popular choice that offers energy savings, improved comfort and a price for most budgets.

However, when maximum comfort and energy savings are a priority, the modulating gas furnace offers exceptional climate control, superior energy efficiency, and indoor comfort. 

If you require additional information, or assistance in selecting a furnace right for you, we will be glad to assist you. Our technicians will assess your requirements, and provide you with the information you need to select a furnace or other heating and air conditioning systems. 

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s HVAC technicians provide expertise, unparalleled service, first quality Carrier products, and meet or exceed the standards of the industry. Our NATE certified <strong>heating and air conditioning> professionals provide emergency HVAC service twenty-four hours a day and seven 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. Give us a call to schedule your service today!

Home Heating Costs | Air Conditioning Installation

A New HVAC System Saves Energy Throughout the Year

Since home heating costs make up a significant part of the budget for the average homeowner, it makes sense to consider a new, energy efficient heating and air conditioning installation when your existing furnace or HVAC system requires frequent repairs and the utility bill continue to rise. 

Understanding AFUE

Every new gas furnace in the U. S. receives an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). The AFUE rating refers to the amount of fuel a heating system uses to keep your home or business warm. For example, a furnace with an AFUE rating of 90 percent uses 90 percent of its fuel for heat and wastes 10 percent of it. The amount that isn’t used exhausts through the vent and outside of your home.

AFUE doesn’t include the heat losses through the ducts, which can be as much as 35% of the energy output of the furnace. The loss of conditioned air occurs when ducts are located in unconditioned space, and/or have air leaks. When providing a new heating and air conditioning installation your HVAC contractor can inspect the duct system, and seal if needed. 

An electric furnace doesn’t have any losses of energy through a flue. The AFUE rating of an all-electric furnace is between 95% for the units located outdoors, and 100% for the units located indoors. However, despite the high efficiency of electric units, the higher cost of electricity in most parts of the nation means electric furnaces may not be the best option. For homeowner’s who prefer electric, consider a heat pump for the highest performance, and greatest efficiency. 

Mid-efficiency Heating Systems vs. High-efficiency Heating Systems (Gas)

Mid-efficiency Heating Systems

• In mid-efficiency heating systems the exhaust fan controls the flow of combustion air and combustion gases more precisely 

• Offer electronic ignition without the waste of gas that a continuous burn pilot light does
• 80% to 83% AFUE

High-efficiency Heating Systems

• High-efficiency heating systems condense exhausted gases in a second heat exchanger for additional efficiency 

• Sealed combustion 
• 90% to 98.5% AFUE

Modern heating systems can achieve AFUE efficiencies as high as 98.5%, converting nearly all the fuel to heat for your home. Upgrading to a high efficiency gas heating system can reduce your fuel costs and the furnace exhaust gases, such as carbon monoxide, by half.

Before purchasing a new HVAC system, take steps to improve your home’s energy efficiency. These improvements will save you money on energy costs, and reduce the workload on your new heating and air conditioning installation maintaining its performance, and extending its lifespan.

Furthermore, look for the ENERGY STAR® label. While the upfront cost may be slightly higher, the energy savings will be greater.

Increasing Furnace Efficiency 

The following tips will lower energy costs and increase furnace efficiency during the winter:

Lower the Temperature

Lowering the thermostat saves energy and reduces wear and tear on the system. When no one is home, lowering the thermostat to 55, and 65 while you sleep can save you up to 15 percent. For every degree the thermostat is lowered, you save about 1 percent on the energy bill. When your HVAC technician is providing a new heating and air conditioning installation for your home, consider installing a programmable thermostat to achieve additional energy savings and improved comfort.

Seal the Ducts

Most HVAC systems rely on the ductwork to move air through the home. However, the average ductwork contributes to 20 to 35 percent energy loss due to air leaks. Sealing leaky joints, and providing necessary repairs increases your comfort, saves energy, and reduces the system’s work load.

Schedule an Annual Tune-up

Annual maintenance is essential for proper system performance and efficiency. Furthermore, routinely maintenance systems preempt excessive wear, and extend its lifespan. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s certified HVAC technicians have the expertise to provide reliable service for your furnace. 

If you would like to bring your home heating costs down, and need a new heating and air conditioning installation, our licensed technicians will provide you with the necessary information, ensuring you are able to make an informed decision in the selection of a system for your home’s heating and air conditioning installation. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Air Filter | Heating and Air Conditioning

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t give your heating and air conditioning system a lot of thought as long as you are comfortable year round. However, in order to maintain its peak performance, to reduce breakdowns and ensure the expected lifespan; you need to provide filter changes/cleanings on a routine basis. Your system’s air filter is at the center of indoor air quality, and assists in reducing dust and particulates that exacerbate allergies and other respiratory conditions. A Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning technician can assist you in achieving improved indoor air quality.

Changing the filter seems simple enough. However, the reality is selecting a filter that is both safe for and protects your heating and air conditioning system is more complicated than you may think. Especially when you consider that choosing the wrong one can cause damage to the HVAC system. While the proper selection is important, proper filter care is also essential. Depending on the type of filter, care involves either changing the filter, or cleaning it on a routine basis.

What a Furnace Filter Does

The foremost purpose of a furnace filter is to protect the blower fan and coil from all the dust, lint and other debris the return duct pulls in. While it will also help the quality of your inside air, its primary purpose is not to actually clean your air. Cleaning the air that moves through it is an additional benefit consequential of its primary job.

In addition, proper filter maintenance is essential for maintaining clean HVAC ductwork. When dirt accumulates in the ductwork, and if condensation occurs, bacteria and mold may grow. Furthermore, inspect the filter for mold, damage or collapse and change it immediately if any of these occur. Damaged filters allow debris filled air to bypass the filter, soiling the system the filter protects.

When changing the filter, ensure the replacement filter is the correct size and compatible with your system. Using a filter with the incorrect performance value can cause an excessive pressure drop across the filter that grows worse as the filter soils. The greater resistance will reduce the airflow to the unit, adversely affecting the performance, energy efficiency, and lifespan of the heating and air conditioning system. 

Filter Ratings

Furnace filters are rated with the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV), and which ranges from 1 to 16. The higher the rating, the more effective the filter is. 

Filter types

The most common type of furnace filter is the disposable pleated kind. These come in a range of standard sizes and ratings. Pleated filters do a good job of filtering most common household particles and allergens. Inspect pleated filters monthly for excessive soiling and replace every 90 days or more frequently if needed.

Disposable fiberglass filters are the cheapest, and the least effective filter on the market. They are typically blue in color. They have lower performance ratings than pleated filters. Due to their inferior quality, disposable fiberglass filters should be checked, and replaced each month or more frequently if needed.

Permanent reusable filters have either a solid aluminum or plastic frame, and are more efficient than a disposable filter. They last an average of 5 years, when properly cleaned at least every 90 days or more often if required. However, due to their density, they may be incompatible with some heating and air conditioning systems.

Electrostatic Filters

Electrostatic filters self-charge themselves as air passes through them. This process increases their ability to trap smaller particles, making them ideal for homes with pets or smokers. However, before using you should check the manual to your heating and air conditioning system to ensure they are safe for use with your system. Filters should have an arrow displayed indicating the direction of the airflow. Proper installation is essential to ensure proper filter operation.

HEPA Filters

HEPA filters are high efficiency filters that are 99% effective in removing air born particulates. A HEPA filter captures allergens such as dust mites, mold, pet dander, bacteria, tobacco smoke, pollen, viruses and other dangerous contaminates from indoor air. This provides cleaner air, reducing the incidence of colds, allergy and asthma attacks, and helps to prevent exacerbation of chronic respiratory conditions. 

HEPA filters are so effective they have been in use at hospitals for more than 70 years to assist in preventing the spread of disease. A HEPA filter is a proven source for cleaner air in a home’s heating and air conditioning system.

HEPA filters are one of the most affordable, and efficient air purifying systems available. Replace HEPA filters every 3-5 years. 

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s NATE certified HVAC technicians offer experience and expertise for your heating and air conditioning needs. If you have questions regarding your system’s air filter your Cypress technician can provide the answers you need. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Furnace Maintenance | Heating and Air Conditioning

If you have not already tested your home’s furnace to ensure it works, now is the time before winter weather arrives. In addition, if your heating and air conditioning system has not received its annual fall furnace maintenance, schedule it now, before HVAC technicians are covered up with service calls on heating systems that do not work. 

Eventually, any heating and air conditioning system will require replacement. If that is your situation, it is better to schedule installation before the temperature drops. The following are potential signs that it may be time for a new furnace:

Age

An HVAC system will typically last about ten to fifteen years, depending on whether or not they receive routine maintenance, and if they are properly sized for the home. A few systems manage to survive for twenty years, though you will be paying a higher cost for energy to operate a system so old. 

If your furnace is 10 years old or older, replacement will be the best option from an energy perspective. With ten years plus wear and tear on it, investing the repair cash into a new energy efficient system is likely the best option. 

Unusual Noise

If your furnace is making unusual noises, contact your HVAC technician. While it may involve a simple furnace repair, it is potentially due to a system with failing components.

Replacement

If your HVAC system or furnace has been requiring an increased frequency of repair, it may be time to replace it. A new heating and air conditioning system will provide your home with a reliable heat source for the winter months, improved efficiency, and a reduction in the energy bill. Heating and air conditioning systems manufactured this year have the highest energy efficiency to date.

Choosing a New Furnace 

If you are in need of a furnace replacement, the following factors are essential to consider: 

Fuel
You will first want to consider the type of energy the new furnace will utilize. Homeowner’s commonly stay with the type of energy as their existing furnace. 

Natural gas is the most common energy source for the furnace. It is widely available and in most areas, it is reasonably priced. Unfortunately, this is not true for all areas of the U.S. Regardless of your current energy source, if you are considering changing, you should compare the cost to your current fuel source to other options. In the southern U.S. the typical options are natural gas, electricity and costly propane.  

Efficiency
All furnaces are required by law to have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. A gas furnace with an 80 percent AFUE generates heat from 80 percent of the fuel it burns. However, a high-efficiency furnace will feature up to a 98 percent rating, and will reduce your home’s energy cost. 

Choose a furnace with electronic ignition to save additional energy. A pilot light, consumes energy even when the furnace is not in use.

There are a number of features available on today’s heating and air conditioning systems for improving comfort, energy efficiency, and convenience. A Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning representative will be glad to provide you with the information you need to make an informed selection of the ideal HVAC system for your home or office.

Size
Using a reputable and experienced HVAC service company will ensure the use of the proper procedure for an accurately sized heating and air conditioning system for your home or business. A number of installers do not use the proper process resulting in a system too large or small for your home. This results in increased wear and tear with a reduced lifespan of the system. In addition, the wrong sized system is detrimental to your comfort, and potentially to the integrity of your home by causing conditions such as mold.

The proper process calculates the appropriate furnace size or heating and air conditioning system based on factors such as the number and insulating quality of windows and doors, square footage, ceiling height, and amount of insulation. 

Our certified heating and air conditioning professionals are dedicated to your comfort, safety, and satisfaction. Furthermore, our experienced technicians provide quality HVAC services that meet or exceed the industry standards. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and provide emergency HVAC service twenty-four hours a day and seven days a week for your convenience. We are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating. Give us a call today to schedule furnace maintenance.

Troubleshooting Tips | AC Blowing Warm Air

Although fall is bringing cooler temperatures, there remain days when the home’s air conditioner is needed. You expect the AC to cool your home when you need it. Unfortunately, for a number of potential reasons, sometimes when you turn the unit on, the AC is blowing warm air. The following troubleshooting tips can potentially assist you in determining the cause, and may provide a quick fix without the need to call for a technician. However, if this guide fails to restore your air conditioning’s cooling, contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for repair when the AC is blowing warm air.

Improper Thermostat Setting

We have all set the thermostat to manual fan at some time. It can provide air circulation when the house is stuffy, though not hot. Sometimes, we forget to reset the thermostat, resulting in a continuous running fan and no cooling. Check the thermostat settings to ensure the fan is on automatic, and the setting is on cool. Otherwise, it will appear the AC is blowing warm air.

Check the Breaker

Inside the home’s electrical panel, is a breaker for the HVAC system. Ensure the breaker is “ON”. If you are not certain, turn the breaker off and back on again. Check the system for operation by lowering the thermostat. After all, if the inside temperature is 75, the thermostat setting will have to rise to 76 before the air conditioning will cut on. 

If the breaker was “off”, and restoring it triggers it to trip again, there is likely a problem with either the air conditioner or the breaker. Contact a Cypress HVAC technician for repair. 

However, if the breaker does not trip again, and lowering the thermostat does not restore AC function, check for an outdoor breaker near the outdoor condensing unit in a service box. If one is present, check its breaker and if tripped, turn it back on and check for AC operation. Breakers are a common cause for the AC blowing warm air. Electrical surges due to issues with the power grid can trigger a thrown breaker.

Dirty Filter

Check the filter and replace if dirty. An extremely dirty filter can cause a lack of adequate airflow and can result in the compressor freezing up. A dirty filter will also result in a dirty system and ducts, and can cause damage to components.

Condenser Coil Needs Cleaning

Ensure the area around the exterior unit is clear to provide adequate airflow. This includes plants, shrubs, debris, or other objects. If the condenser coil is in need of cleaning, contact a Cypress technician for service.

Evaporator Coil Needs Cleaning

In a split system, the interior coil is called an evaporator coil. The air filter is located in this area, and helps to protect the evaporator coil from soiling. The coils will require cleaning at some point, though the routine changing of the air filter will reduce the required frequency. A dirty coil in either location can cause reduced performance, including the AC blowing warm air.

Refrigerant Leak

A refrigerant leak is a common cause of the AC blowing warm air. The repair of a leak requires the services of an HVAC technician. Leaks are not always as simple as adding refrigerant. First, the leak will need to be located and repaired. Without repair, the refrigerant will leak away once again. It is also possible that the technician will need to evacuate the system, which utilizes a vacuum pump to extract moisture and air before refrigerant can be added. There are potential signs of low refrigerant depending on the amount that has leaked out, and the amount of time that has passed:

• The refrigerant line is frosted over 
• The sound of bubbling or a hissing noise 

Furthermore, low refrigerant is due to a leak that requires repair. The AC is a closed system and as long as there is not a leak, additional refrigerant is not required. A refrigerant leak can lead to costly damage to the HVAC system. It is to the homeowner’s advantage to schedule a repair promptly.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning’s technicians are certified and experienced HVAC experts with the expertise to provide for all of your needs with your heating and air-conditioning in Katy, TX. Our highly trained professionals provide repair, installation, and service. If these troubleshooting tips were unable to resolve the issue of the AC blowing warm air, give us a call. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Indoor Air Quality | Air Conditioning Repair Katy

Today’s homes are designed to be energy efficient, and are sealed to prevent the loss of conditioned air. Unfortunately, a tighter home results in an increased concentration of pollutants indoors, and poor indoor air quality. Your heating and air conditioning system can improve the air that passes through it. If you need heating or air conditioning repair in Katy, call Cypress’s reliable technicians today.

The Sources of Pollution

The sources of indoor air pollution commonly include the following: 

• The combustion process of fossil fuels such as natural or propane gas, wood or others, produce deadly carbon monoxide gas. Routine maintenance and inspection of the appliance, chimneys and vent pipes will ensure safe operation. A poorly operating gas furnace can result in a hazardous condition, and poor air quality. Contact us today to schedule heating and/or air conditioning repair in Katy.
• Building materials and furnishings are a source of pollutants such as the VOC’s formaldehyde, dust mites, and mold. Sources include insulation, carpet, cabinetry and furniture constructed of pressed wood, glues, drywall, flooring, and paint.  

Furthermore, formaldehyde causes formic acid to develop on the copper tubing of HVAC units. This can cause pinholes resulting in a refrigerant leak, and the need for air conditioning repair in Katy. Manufacturers are responding by changing the tubing to aluminum, which is unaffected by the chemical.

• Household cleaning and personal care products, such as air fresheners, laundry products, soap, shampoo, deodorant, and a large number of others.
• Hobby and home improvement tasks, including painting, varnishing, using adhesives, and more. 
• Radon occurs due to the natural decay of uranium, and can leak from the ground into the home. 
• Pets with fur or feathers are a source of dander and are a catalyst for allergies and asthma in sensitive individuals. Routine brushing and bathing will assist in reducing the amount of dander, and other irritants.
• Dust mite populations increase during the winter. Dust mites are present on household surfaces, upholstered furniture, draperies, carpets, and bedding. 
• Mold and mildew can develop in tightly constructed homes, especially if a lack of fresh air is a problem. Steam from the bathroom and the kitchen increases the amount of moisture in the home, and creates an environment for mold and mildew to grow. 
• Viruses and bacteria thrive in the warm, closed environment of the home. 
• A smoker in the home is a serious source of indoor pollution. Treat second hand smoke by not allowing anyone to smoke in your home.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Improving indoor air quality requires controlling the source, improving ventilation, and providing air cleaners or air purifiers. Source control involves direct intervention at the source of pollution. The following are examples of source control:

• Gas appliances may require adjustment of the gas pressure supplying them. 
• Ensuring the ventilation pipes of gas appliances are free of obstructions will ensure the proper exhaust of carbon monoxide. When you call for maintenance or heating and air conditioning repair in Katy, our technicians include inspecting your HVAC system ventilation pipe for damage or obstruction.
• Regular cleaning will reduce dust mite populations and other pollutants.
• The use of exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen will assist in removing excess moisture from bathing and cooking. After showering, allow the fan to run for 20 minutes after your bath is complete to remove moisture. 
• Test for radon, and have a professional seal the home if detected.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors, with at least one on each floor and near bedrooms.

• Purchase all natural, toxin free cleaners. Read the labels of products thoroughly to assure it is all natural. 
• Launder bedding weekly in hot water and dry in a hot dryer. Cover mattresses and pillows with dust mite protectors, and consider hardwood flooring or tile rather than carpet. 
• Purchase Low or no VOC products for hobbies, home improvement projects and when remodeling. If possible, wait for warmer weather and ventilate with open windows and doors. 
• When the weather permits, increasing ventilation by opening windows and doors is an easy way to increase ventilation and reduce indoor pollutants. 
• Replace furnace filters routinely. The average low cost blue or green fiberglass air filter does not remove pollutants. While they capture larger particles that can damage the HVAC system, smaller particulates pass right through the filter, and into the system. This will eventually result in damage to components, and the need for heating and air conditioning repair in Katy.
• A HEPA air filter captures airborne pollutants as air circulates through the system. Quality filters provide cleaner air and reduce the need for heating and air conditioning repair in Katy. Check filters often, ideally about every two weeks and replace as necessary. However, keep in mind, not all HVAC systems are designed for the use of a HEPA filter, and use may result in premature wear and tear on the system resulting in the need for heating and air conditioning repair in Katy.
• HEPA air purifiers, and other air cleaners can provide significantly cleaner air. A number of products with a variety of features are available for installation in conjunction with the home’s heating and air conditioning system in order to provide cleaner air for the entire home. Give us a call for additional information.

Signs of Poor Ventilation

The signs of poor ventilation are quite visible and consist of condensation on walls or windows, stale air, mold or mildew, musty odors, or dirty HVAC equipment. 

A properly operating HVAC system capable of using a HEPA filter will provide significant assistance in improved indoor air quality. Maintaining a clean, properly operating system will also assist you in receiving cleaner indoor air. Contact our Nate certified experienced technicians today for heating or air conditioning repair in Katy. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers professional expertise in heating and air conditioning installation, heating and air conditioning repair in Katy, and more. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.