The geothermal heat pump has earned both a growing share of the market and the consumer classification of the gold standard in energy efficient heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX. Energy efficiency and a long life span are a primary reason why homeowner’s select a geothermal system despite its initial higher cost. When you are in the selection process for new heating and air conditioning, the following may assist you in determining if geothermal technology is the best for you.

How it Works

The geothermal system uses the free energy of the Earth’s fairly consistent underground temperature to provide heating or air conditioning in Katy, TX for your home. You may wonder just how energy efficient a geothermal heat pump is. Carrier offers geothermal heat pumps that can save you up to 70% on the cost of heating and 40% on the cost of air conditioning in Katy, TX. 

Approximately 4-6 feet underground the temperature remains fairly constant, with an average of 52-55 degrees F throughout the year. During the winter the underground temperature is warmer than the surface air and in the summer it’s significantly cooler. This is the factor than enables a geothermal heat pump to save you money, and enables the system to yield up to 4 kilowatts of heat for every 1 kilowatt of electricity consumed. 

The system uses a field of pipes, called a ground heat exchanger which is buried at a specific depth and filled with water, antifreeze or other liquid medium. The medium is used to provide a preconditioned refrigerant that is either heated up or cooled down in the heat pump, depending on the time of the year. By using a refrigerant with a temperature  preconditioned  in the ground loops, you gain greater energy efficiency in any weather for heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX.

Clean, Green and Safe

Unlike gas heating, the geothermal heat pump uses electricity for clean operation without pollutants. It is better for the environment, and safer for you. 

Environmental Impact

Geothermal heat pumps are better for the environment: 

• The number of geothermal systems currently installed have eliminated the use of 40 trillion BTU’s of fossil fuels each year, while that number continues to grow with each installation.  
• The existing number of geothermal systems has reduced the amount of carbon going into the atmosphere by 1.6 million metric tons each year. 
• The existing geothermal systems have saved 8 million kWh of power each year and climbing. 
• Existing systems have eliminated more than 5.8 million metric tons of CO2 into the atmosphere each year.
• The number of geothermal systems currently installed have reduced electrical generation by 2.6 million kW each year and growing 

A Superior Life Span

With routine maintenance, the geothermal heat pump unit has an average lifespan of 25 years, while the underground components have an expected lifespan of 50 years under normal conditions. This is a significant improvement over other heating and air conditioning systems. 

An Investment That Keeps on Giving

The geothermal heat pump is an investment in energy efficiency that begins immediately and continues to give for the lifespan of the system. While it is true the initial investment is higher than a conventional heat pump, the energy savings will offset the costs of the installation over a reasonable period of time. In addition, installation may qualify you for rebates and tax credits. Check with federal, state, county, local and utility resources for up-to-date information on available incentives when you upgrade to  geothermal heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX . 

Installation

It is essential to hire a qualified HVAC professional with experience and proficiency in geothermal technology and  installation. Your satisfaction and the performance of  geothermal heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX depend on the expertise of the installer.

If you are considering the installation of a geothermal heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX, contact our NATE certified technicians and we will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Our experienced HVAC technicians offer the expertise required for the proper installation of HVAC systems, including the geothermal heat pump. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning is a member of the BBB with a consistent A+ rating.

Changing the air filter for your heating and air conditioning system is one of the few chores that you as a homeowner can provide to the system. The majority of maintenance requires a certified HVAC technician to provide it. Routine maintenance is essential for the best performance, energy efficiency and a long lifespan for your home’s HVAC system. Ignoring it will result in increased energy costs, increased heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX, and likely an early replacement of the system. However, changing the filter is equally important.

Purpose of an Air Filter

The air filter was created to protect the heating and air conditioning system.  Without the protection of the air filter, the dirt you see on the filter would have entered the system itself. It isn’t a situation to dismiss. For example, dust entering the mechanical and electronic components creates friction, which causes wear and tear on the components. Wear, and age cause the need for increased  heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX, costing you money.

Not changing the filter can result in a clogged filter, and serious issues can result. When the filter is clogged, air is unable to flow properly  through the system. Consequently, the system works harder, causing unnecessary wear. Due to the inability to pull adequate air through a clogged filter, the pressure that is created pulls soil and debris around the filter and into the system. The result is not only a prematurely worn system, but also a dirty coil eventually resulting in poor performance and the need for air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.

The cost of a new filter each month is a small price to pay in preventing wear resulting in the need for a new heating and air conditioning installation, or air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.

Indoor Air Quality

If your goal is to improve the indoor air quality of your home, the type of filter will play a significant role. The standard blue fiberglass filter is not going to improve indoor air quality. However, the common pleated filter, and HEPA filters will. Unfortunately, HEPA filters can only be used in systems designed for them. Using the HEPA in non-approved systems will not allow air to circulate, resulting in damage, and the need for air conditioning repair in Katy.

The pleated filter, on the other hand, can be used in most systems and while not as effective as a HEPA, will provide measurable improvement. It’s still a good idea to check with your HVAC technician ensuring it is safe to use with your system.

Air Filter Changes

How often you should change the filter depends on its type, the conditions inside your home, and the system manufacturer’s recommendation. Some filters require changing every month, as with the cheap fiberglass type. Others require changing every three months, as with the majority of pleated filters. Those with pets, or environmental conditions creating excessive dust are likely to require more frequent changes than the standard monthly recommendation. A clean filter is your best dense against unnecessary air conditioning repair in Katy.

Contact our NATE certified technicians for questions regarding your system’s air filter or to schedule heating and air conditioning services. Our technicians offer the expertise you can rely on for professional installation, maintenance, and expert heating and air conditioning repair in Katy.  Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning serves Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

It is not unusual for people to consider their home to be a safe haven for their family. However, according to the EPA the indoor air of home’s is heavily contaminated, even more than your outdoor air. Fortunately, there are solutions for improving your household’s indoor air quality. First, you should learn about the potential causes of indoor air pollution.  Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to learn how your heating and air conditioning system can be an integral component for providing healthier indoor air.

Radon Gas

First, you need to be aware of one of the most potentially deadly sources of indoor air pollution – radon gas. You may have heard of it, but has your home been tested for it? Radon is emitted from the ground beneath homes, and not every home will have it. It is colorless and odorless, and without testing you would not be aware of its presence until an illness, such as cancer, for example brought about the possibility. You can have your home tested, or purchase a DIY kit and test the air in your home.

Construction Materials

The materials used in the construction and furnishing of your home may contain dangerous pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene. Materials such as carpets, vinyl flooring, paint, drywall, furniture, and even the wood used for its construction. When selecting paint, carpet and wood products, household cleaners, air fresheners and other products, look for those bearing a label that says low or no VOCs. VOC is the acronym for volatile organic compounds, which are dangerous substances that can cause a variety of health problems, including cancer. In cleaning products look for all natural or make your own.

Humidity Levels

Humidity, whether too high or low, affects not only your comfort but air quality and can affect your health. High humidity provides an environment conducive to allergens,mold, mildew and harmful bacteria. If humidity is a problem in your home, a whole-house dehumidifier is an effective solution. On the other hand, during the winter, your home is likely to have too little humidity. The signs of low humidity include increased static electricity, dry skin and mucous membranes. The latter increases your risks for colds, flu and other infections. A humidifier installed in the heating and air conditioning system will provide a healthy humidity. A Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning NATE certified technician can provide the installation you need.

Pollen and Pet Dander

Your heating and air conditioning system may be able to filter out allergens such as dust mites, pollen and pet dander, along with dust and debris. Its effectiveness depends on the type of filter the system is capable of handling without sustaining damage. Most systems tolerate pleated filters which do a fair job. High efficiency filters, also called HEPA filters provide the best filtration, but only heating and air conditioning systems designed for their use can safely use them. Systems using the fiberglass blue filters don’t clean the air, they only catch large particles that may damage the system.

Furthermore, remember to change the filter monthly or as recommended. Even the best filtration is ineffective if it is not clean, and a dirty filter can cause serious damage to the heating and air conditioning system, and increases energy use.

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a  poisonous, colorless and odorless gas that can quickly overcome family members, causing permanent brain damage or even death. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, ensure all gas operated appliances are properly installed and operate normally, including intact ventilation that is free of blockage or damage. Finally, install carbon monoxide detectors near all sleeping areas, and at least one on each floor. Test them monthly along with your smoke detector and change the batteries every six months.  

Contact an air quality specialist at Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for effective solutions to your indoor air quality challenges. Our NATE certified HVAC professionals have the expertise to provide your home with professional and reliable heating and air conditioning services., meeting and/or exceeding the industry standards.  We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

As you are finishing up your final preparations before winter, consider your home’s duct system. Over time the seals between the joints can deteriorate, allowing conditioned air to escape from the ducts, which increase the energy bill by as much as 30%. Furthermore, leaked air increases the HVAC system workload. The consequences are an increase in heating and air conditioning repair in Katy, a reduced lifespan. Providing duct sealing is the solution.

The ducts perform the task of delivering conditioned air to every room of your home. A  faulty delivery system not only allows the conditioned air to leak out and overworks the system, it creates pressure problems that add to the workload on the system.

The cause of leaky ducts is broken or missing seals, loose connections, pipe separation, and damage. In addition, those with ducts in the basement or attic should ensure adequate insulation to prevent the loss of energy. Otherwise, you’re loosing heat and air conditioning in the spaces. Inspection of the ducts is the best way to ensure they are sealed. However, ducts in difficult to reach places may just as hard to inspect, and may not be properly sealed. Our expert technicians can resolve the problem, and have the expertise to provide the heating and air conditioning repair in Katy that you need. The following signs may indicate your home’s ducts need to be sealed:

• Rising energy costs not related to the severe temperatures may be due to the need for sealing. However, units not serviced annually will also experience loss of efficiency.
• Overly hot in the summer, or cold rooms in the winter. 
• Unusual odors can be due to dislocated or loose ducts, For example, if your home has a crawlspace and your home smells earthy or dusty, coupled with reduced air circulation from a register, may indicate a loose or separated duct.

Sealing the ducts and providing any required duct repair will lower energy costs and increase the performance of the unit, while increasing your comfort. In addition, the indoor air quality will be improved with less dust and other contaminates. Leaky ducts also allow moisture to enter the system and your home as well as dust. A sealed system provides a cleaner, healthier home.

Sealing the Ducts

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning can identify duct leaks and check for damage. Once identified,  our technician will provide the heating and air conditioning repair in Katy that you require. Those who intend to provide it themselves should use mastic sealant or metal backed tape. Duct tape is not for duct work and should never be used. 

The best means to receive the most from your heating and air conditioning system is providing professional annual maintenance service, changing the filter monthly, and ensuring sealed and functional ducts with inspection and duct sealing. Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning NATE certified technicians today to schedule service, or for reliable heating and air conditioning repair in Katy. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, are are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating. 

Save With a Programmable Thermostat

Winter typically brings a flurry of activity, sealing homes, and other preparations to reduce the impact of higher energy costs for heating your home.  A programmable thermostat is an effective option for achieving a higher energy efficiency of the home’s HVAC system. A properly installed and correctly set programmable thermostat provides the ability to customize the settings to your daily, or even weekly schedule.  Consider the following when you are considering upgrading to a programmable thermostat compatible with your heating and air conditioning system. Contact a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning HVAC technician for assistance.

Programmable Thermostats Have Evolved Through the Years

Programmable thermostats often had a reputation for being complicated to program. Since then, manufacturers’ have been simplifying the interface, and you can purchase models that are easier to program and interact with. Thermostats that are more user friendly, enables consumers to set the thermostats with greater accuracy, Consequently, this means you are able to save considerably on energy costs, and reduces the environmental impact of your home’s heating and air conditioning on the environment.

Thermostat Types

There are a variety of programmable thermostats available on the market. They can range from simple thermostats that change temperatures on a basic schedule, to home automation systems with WiFi Technology, that enable you to operate multiple systems in your home from the lights to heating and air conditioning via an app on your computer, tablet or smartphone. However, for those who want something more basic, the following are programmable formats available to fit your schedule:

• 7-day thermostats provide flexibility for those with a variable schedule every day. Each day can be programmed individually, selecting temperatures for when you are home and when you are not.
• 5+2-day thermostats provide the same temperature schedule during the work week, but enables you to adapt it for the weekend, when families spend more time at home.
• 5-1-1 thermostats are ideal for those with a routine work week, but less predictable weekends. It allows you to set a standard workweek temperature schedule, and individual daily schedules for the weekend.

Did you know you can cut the energy use of your heating and air conditioning system by 1 percent for every degree you change your thermostat’s setting?  This is effective year round by increasing the temperature in the summer and lowering it in the winter. Your energy savings will of course vary depending on your comfort level. 

In addition, it is essential to realize an inaccurate thermostat can actually waste energy and increase the costs of energy in the long run. If you are experiencing an increase in energy costs, contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule service by a NATE certified technician. Our HVAC service technician will check the thermostat, or programmable thermostat and provide a solution. In addition, we can provide the HVAC services you require to maintain the performance of your heating and air conditioning system with expert repair, installation and maintenance. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas and guarantee your satisfaction. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning is a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

Scheduling AC Repair in the Winter – Why it’s Wise

Although cooler temperatures mean you probably won’t use your air conditioner, when the AC is blowing warm there is good reason to go ahead and schedule a repair with a Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning HVAC technician.  First, if your AC happens to be a package heat pump and the unit is not functioning properly, the heating function is likely to also be experiencing problems. A heat pump utilizes the same components to produce both heating and air conditioning. A component called a reversing value reverses the flow of the refrigerant gas to change between the AC and heat. Therefore, if the AC is not properly working, neither will the heat, and vice versa.

Next, if your AC is separate from the heating system, you still need to schedule repairs now, and not next spring. For example, when the AC is blowing warm air, it may be due to a refrigerant leak, one of the most common causes. If the unit is low on refrigerant and you wait until next spring for repair, it is also highly possible the compressor will require replacement by spring. The compressor is the component of the system with the highest cost. In fact, most homeowner’s will buy a whole new system rather than replace the compressor.

There are additional reasons that may be behind an AC blowing warm air, and some are issues you can take care of yourself.  The following information can assist you in determining the cause, and may provide a quick fix without the need to call your technician. However, if the AC is blowing warm air after checking the following, contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule repair.

Check the Thermostat Setting

It isn’t uncommon for homeowner’s to turn the fan on manual. A burned meal, a smoking fireplace, and using the fan to pull in fresh, clean air through a window or door are all common practices. The problem occurs when we forget to return the fan to the automatic function. The fan will run continuously, even when the AC compressor doesn’t cut on. This can give the appearance of the AC blowing warm air. Check the thermostat to ensure the fan is on the automatic setting, and the setting is on cool.

Check the Breaker

Occasionally, the breaker or breakers controlling the HVAC system can trip, and may allow the fan to run while the compressor doesn’t. Ensure the breaker is “ON”.  Typically, on a package heat pump there will be a breaker controlling it, and potentially one controlling the heat strips if present. In this situation, when the AC is blowing warm air, the breaker shouldn’t be tripped. However, if the heat pump is a split system, there can be 2 to 3 breakers controlling the system. One breaker is for the outdoor component containing the compressor, one for the indoor component which contains the blower fan, and one for heat strips if present. The outdoor component can experience a thrown breaker, while the breaker for the indoor blower unit can continue to operate, resulting in the AC blowing warm air, because the compressor will not be operating. If you are uncertain, turn the breaker(s) off and back on again. Check for operation by lowering the thermostat.

If the breaker was “off”, and pushing it back to on causes it to trip again, there is likely a problem with either the air conditioner or the breaker. Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning AC repair in Katy. Breakers are a common cause of the AC blowing warm air, and the system may have internal breakers in addition to those in the electrical panel. Contact our NATE certified technicians for AC repair in Katy.  Power surges are a possible cause for a tripped breaker, as long as the surge wasn’t powerful enough to damage the HVAC system, resetting the breaker can potentially take care of the problem.

The Dirty Filter

Check the filter and replace if dirty. A dirty filter will also soil the system and ducts, and can cause damage to components.

Dirty Condenser Coil

Ensure the area around the exterior unit is free of vegetation and clear of debris to provide adequate airflow. If the condenser coil is in need of cleaning, contact a Cypress technician for service.

Dirty Evaporator Coil

In a split system, the interior portion of the system contains the fan blower and the evaporator coil. The air filter is located in this area, and helps to protect the evaporator coil from damaging debris and soiling. The coil will eventually require cleaning, although the routine changing of the air filter will reduce the frequency. A dirty coil can cause reduced performance, and the AC blowing warm air.

Refrigerant Leak

A refrigerant leak is a top cause of the AC blowing warm air. The repair of a leak can only be provided by a qualified HVAC technician. The signs of low refrigerant can include:

• The refrigerant line is frosted over
• The sound of bubbling or a hissing noise
• The AC blowing warm air

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 system. Schedule an AC repair in Katy right away.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning NATE certified technicians have the expertise to provide a wide range of reliable HVAC services. If your AC is 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.

Commercial Air Conditioner Replacement

Commercial air conditioners are constructed to heavy duty standards for long service. They have to be in order to withstand the heavy demand placed on them. Unfortunately, as with any mechanical equipment they will eventually require replacement. When a commercial air conditioner nears the end of its lifespan,  an increased need for AC repair in Katy and diminished effectiveness and efficiency calls for replacement as soon as possible. The following signs may indicate the need to replace your commercial air conditioner.

Diminished Output

A diminished output is a typical early sign of the need for air conditioner replacement. The years of wear and tear on the various components of the system result in less efficiency and effectiveness. This results in the system running for longer periods of time in order to achieve the set temperature. If your commercial air conditioning system is not operating effectively and the electric bills are climbing, it may be time to replace it.

AC Repair Katy

Even a well maintained system is going to need AC repair in Katy occasionally. However, older systems will need a growing number of repairs as they near the end of their lifespan. When a commercial air conditioner requires AC repair in Katy several times a year or more often, it is a sign that it would be cheaper to just replace the air conditioning system.

Age

Aging commercial air conditioners can only cost you more as time goes on. In addition, a twenty year old system is costing you more on energy costs. A newer, more energy efficient system will save you money, and provide greater reliability.

Signs You Need Commercial AC Repair in Katy

An heating and air conditioning system that provides peak operation is an asset for a company. Many business owners do not realize efficiency is lost over time as wear and tear become issues for an older system. When you consider the amount of work that a commercial HVAC system performs year-round to maintain comfort for customers and employees, the eventual decline should not come as a surprise. 

The following are a few of the common signs that will alert you to the need for AC repair Katy. Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for professional technicians with the expertise to provide AC Repair Katy, bi-annual maintenance and a new air conditioning installation.

• The rising cost of power bills is a reliable indication of problems. As a business owner, you monitor the cost of expenses. An unexplained increase in the power bill may be due to an HVAC system with problems. For example, low refrigerant, failing motors, a dirty coil, clogged filters, or general wear and tear can result in an elevated electric bill. Call today for Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning NATE certified technicians to diagnose the issue.

• Uneven heating or cooling as indicated by hot or cold spots can lead to discomfort. Listening to your employees who complain can be an early warning of a developing issue. Uneven heating or cooling may indicate a problem with the thermostats or the ventilation system, but it may also indicate that the air conditioner is worn beyond the ability to condition the space.
• Unusual odors from the registers may indicate breaks in the ventilation system, or it can also point to overheating motors or or other components. A musty odor may mean the coil is in need of cleaning, and is a common sign when systems need replacement. When unusual odors are detected call right away for service to potentially prevent fires and a ruined compressor, which is a costly component to replace.   

Commercial air conditioning repair requires NATE certified technicians trained and experienced to handle them. Not just any technician will be qualified. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers qualified HVAC technicians for commercial maintenance, installation and AC Repair Katy. Furthermore, we offer emergency services 24/7 for your convenience. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating. 

For the average homeowner, the repair of a heating and air conditioning system is beyond their ability, and shouldn’t be attempted due to the hazards of gas and/or electricity. HVAC repair requires training, knowledge, experience and specialized equipment and tools. The HVAC system is an investment that you rely on to provide heating and air conditioning. Some minor issues are related to a lack of homeowner provided maintenance and caution, and these issues you can resolve without danger or the risk of creating worse problems,. Most problems will require a certified HVAC technician to resolve. The following discusses the signs of a problem, and whether or not you should schedule a repair. Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for professional  heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX. 

Heating and Air Conditioning problems may include:

• Poor airflow can lead to discomfort in your home. The problem may result from a variety of problems. First check the air filter, as a dirty one can hamper the air flow and cause damage to the system, and the same can be said about the grilled air return, ensure it isn’t clogged with lint. Next check the registers, which is where the air comes out of the ducts, and ensure they haven’t been closed off. Otherwise, you’ll need to contact your HVAC technician for heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.
• When the home heating system blows cold air the cause is most likely going to require a technician to provide heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.  Before you call for help, check the outdoor system for ice on the unit or the coil  when the temperatures are below freezing. Contact Cypress Heating and Air conditioning for HVAC repair.
• Refrigerant leaks in heat pumps are not likely to be recognized by the average homeowner, unless you hear the gas escaping. Declining performance may indicate a leak. Refrigerant can only be handled by a certified HVAC technician. Furthermore, specialized equipment may be required to evacuate air from the system after the leak is repaired and before recharging with refrigerant. Contact us today to schedule heating and  air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.
• A tripped circuit breaker may be the result of a transient power surge, or the result of a serious problem in the heating and air conditioning system, such as a short, for example. Contact your technician for diagnosis of repeated tripped breakers and heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.
• As the central control of your heating and air conditioning system, the thermostat may be at fault for problems. First, ensure it is on the proper settings of Heat and Auto for the fan. If your thermostat requires batteries, check the status and look for a low warning that can cause issues. Furthermore, if battery changes are required have your technician check for loose connections. Otherwise, contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for heating and heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.

The best means of avoiding common HVAC problems is to schedule annual maintenance each year. However, a heat pump should be serviced each spring and fall, due its year round operation. Maintenance includes comprehensive testing  and inspection of the system to identify problems early before additional problems can result. In addition, your technician will also provide cleaning, and the required oiling and adjustments of the system to ensure it provides peak performance, efficiency and operates reliably. 

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers NATE certified technicians for the highest level of quality and expertise available. We also offer 24 hour emergency service, installation, heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX for residential and commercial applications. We offer service in Plano, Katy and the surrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.