A heat pump is one of the best choices for your home’s heating and air conditioning needs in Texas. Heat pump’s provide both heating and air conditioning, and are capable of maintaining your comfort year round. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning installs highly rated Carrier HVAC systems. While they are rated the best in the industry, as with any other mechanical device, they require routine maintenance for top performance, efficiency and to receive the maximum lifespan. With normal wear and tear, they will eventually need heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX. 

In the following are some of the common problems in heat pumps and the heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX  that may be required. 

Refrigerant Leaks

While the compressor is the heart of the heat pump system, refrigerant is its life’s blood. Refrigerant isn’t used up, and when the refrigerant level is low, it’s due to a leak in the system.  Low refrigerant prevents the heat pump from performing normally. You may see ice on the coil or the system shutting down to protect components. If the system were to continue to operate damage could occur, especially to the most costly component, the compressor. A refrigerant leak will require your HVAC technician to repair the leak and recharge the refrigerant. Our NATE certified technicians can provide the reliable heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX that you need.

• Reversing Valve Failure
• A reversing valve changes the direction refrigerant flows, enabling the heat pump to change between the function of heating and air conditioning. When the reversing valve fails the system will be stuck in a single mode, either heating or cooling. A broken reversing valve will require replacement with heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.
• Failed Compressor  
• The compressor is responsible for pumping the refrigerant and the process of heat exchange. Compressors will eventually experience weakening and wear out. The potential signs of a failing compressor include unusual noises during operation, such as whining, grinding, or humming sounds. When the compressor fails, you will need to decide between replacement with heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX or a new system.

Tripping Circuit Breakers

Circuit breakers will trip and fuses will blow when a ground fault occurs, when the circuit is overloaded and when a short circuit occurs. While power surges, for example, may cause the occasional tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse, an ongoing problem indicates a serious problem.  Contact your HVAC technician for diagnosis and heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.

Inefficient Temperature Control

Once the heating and air conditioning system has some age on it, you may notice it’s no longer able to maintain a comfortable temperature. It may run longer than it once did to obtain the set temperature, driving the energy bill up and contributing to your discomfort. This may be especially noticeable during the summer when the unit struggles to maintain a cool temperature indoors. Humidity may also be a problem as in its weakening condition, the unit is unable to extract the humidity from the air as it once did. When this occurs heating and air conditioning installation is preferable over heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX.

Repair Vs. Replacement

When the compressor is worn or completely failed, you will face the decision to replace the compressor or replace the heat pump. If the heat pump is under warranty the manufacturer will make this decision. However, if the unit is out of warranty you will need to choose between replacement or  heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX of the existing unit.  The following guidelines can assist you in the decision:

• Consider the age and care given the heat pump system first. If the system is fairly new, for example just out of warranty, under normal circumstances compressor replacment is a logical choice. In this situation, there shouldn’t be excessive wear on the unit, and replacing the compressor should take care of the problem. However, if the system has experienced poor or questionable maintenance, and especially if it’s nearing ten years old, replacing the unit may be the best choice.
• Next, consider the cost. If the unit is getting on up in age and the cost is 33% or more of the cost of a new system, choose a new installation. You will gain dependability, increased energy efficiency and improved comfort. Heat pumps have gained a superior performance in the past decade with the introduction of new technologies. A system installed today will have greater performance and benefits than a system even a mere three years old. 
• Age has an additional impact on an older system. While you may opt to install a new compressor, aging coils may be weakened and unable to tolerate the higher pressure of a new compressor. The result can be disastrous for the coils, for example. 

System Maintenance is the Best Insurance

As previously stated, a heat pump provides both heating and air conditioning. Realistically, this means the heat pump works twice as hard as a separate furnace and air conditioner. This is the reason the recommended schedule for professional service is biannually for a heat pump. Maintenance will extend the lifespan, and maintain efficiency. A neglected system can lose significant energy efficiency, and perform poorly. 

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning offers professional heat pump services in Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas. If you require heating and air conditioning repair in Plano, TX, or other HVAC services, call today to schedule an appointment. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning is a member of the BBB with an A+ rating. Emergency services are available 24/7 for your convenience.

For those with the budget and a desire for the highest efficiency heating and air conditioning system possible, a geothermal heat pump is the way to go. By saving on energy costs from 30% to as much as 70%, your new geothermal system will soon pay for itself. However, it can’t be stressed enough that you should ensure you hire a qualified HVAC contractor for the installation of geothermal heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX.

Where Experience Matters

Geothermal utilizes a different concept than your standard air sourced heat pump. Geothermal takes advantage of the ground temperature which is fairly consistent. If you’re wondering whether a geothermal system is possible for your home, it depends on the factors concerning the size of your lot and the subsoil present. Customer satisfaction with the system is extremely high when properly installed, and the reliable geothermal tolerates temperature extremes that air sourced heat pumps won’t, whether it is providing heating or air conditioning in Katy, TX.

The pipes that comprise a geothermal field loop are buried beneath the ground either horizontally or vertically, depending on the land available and the characteristics of the site. If a water source is available, an “open loop” system may be an option. Without a qualified installer, mistakes can be made that will affect your home’s comfort and the longevity of the system. The geothermal system requires an accurately sized unit, and also an accurately sized and properly designed field loop. Not all contractors are properly trained or experienced in providing the expertise required for installing  geothermal heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX. Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to ensure a proper installation and or repair.

Maintenance

Geothermal systems require minimal maintenance. With proper installation the loop field can last for as much as 50 years. The unit’s itself, with its fan, compressor, and pump are housed indoors, protected from changing and often strenuous weather conditions, and average lasting for 25 years or longer with proper maintenance. Generally, routine tuneups, filter changes and coil cleaning are the only required maintenance. 

Facts about Geothermal Heat Pumps

If you’re researching energy efficient heating and air conditioning for your home, consider the following facts:

• For each unit of electricity a geothermal system consumes, it produces up to five units of cooling or heating from the earth to your home.
• Geothermal systems can be used to heat water, saving you money on the home’s second largest consumer of energy.

If going green, and saving money on energy costs is appealing to you, join the growing number of homeowners with a geothermal heat pump system. Contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning today to schedule a consultation with our NATE certified technicians for the installation of geothermal heating and air conditioning in Katy, TX. Our highly trained and experienced professionals provide the expertise you can rely on for geothermal installation and repair. And ensures you receive the expected performance, benefits and life span. Our expert HVAC technicians serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning is a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

If your furnace shuts down try the following tips before calling for repair. The fix is often a simple one and can save you the cost of a service call. So when your heat quits, check out the following furnace troubleshooting tips before calling Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule heating and AC repair in Katy:

Check the Filter 

Dirty filters cause problems for the HVAC system, and in some systems a clogged filter can trigger a safety switch that shuts the furnace down before damage (and a fire) can be caused. Check the filter and replace it if needed. A dirty filter contains dust, pet dander, lint and other debris. These materials block the airflow through the filter causing the system to struggle for air, and potentially overheat, triggering any safety switch to shut down. When a clogged filter is the cause, replacement will solve the problem. Change the filter monthly and ideally check it every two weeks. Don’t forget to schedule annual maintenance for your system, maintenance is the life’s blood for your system and assists in preventing excessive heating and AC repair in Katy.

Component Failure

Other issues may cause the furnace to shut down. A blower or a switch may fail, for example. A fan failure means the fan does not run to deliver warm air throughout the home, whereas the failure of other components may also result in failure of the furnace to run. When components fail a technician will be required to provide heating and  AC repair in Katy.

Thermostat Issues 

Thermostat problems is also a common cause of the system to fail to run. Use the following as a checklist for your thermostat:

1. Check the thermostat settings, and ensure the switch is on ‘Heat’ and not ‘Cool’ or ‘Off’.
2. Is the low battery warning flashing? Try changing the batteries. In addition, dead batteries may result in the loss of programming, and a system that won’t run. Try the override function.
3. Check the temperature, and raise the temp above the displayed room temperature. If the furnace will then operate the problem is solved. If not, continue your inspection.
4. Check the programming of a programmable thermostat, if the time is off, the system will run when programmed to run. Your thermostat should have an override function allowing you to bypass the settings and the system to run. If it doesn’t run with override continue to the next step.
5. Thermostats will eventually require replacement, you will need to contact your HVAC technician for this service. Give us a call today to schedule heating and  AC repair in Katy.

Circuit Breakers and Shutoff Switches

First, check the furnace breaker. If it’s off push it to the On position, and if the system isn’t running at this point raise the thermostat above the set temperature. If the system still won’t run, look for shutoff switches. They may be on the furnace or a nearby wall. Reset them and check for operation.

Check the Gas Supply

A gas furnace will shut off when the gas supply is interrupted. Check the pilot and ensure it is lit. If not, relight it according to the manufacturers instructions. If the pilot lights but continually goes off contact your technician for repair. However, if the pilot won’t light, before calling a technician, check with your gas supplier. The gas may be off in your area for repairs. If not, contact a Cypress technician for heating and AC repair in Katy.

Poor Ventilation

A clogged or damaged ventilation pipe can trigger furnaces with safety switches to shut off if the flue is blocked. If your furnace ventilation pipe wasn’t inspected before being put in use for the winter, contact your technician. However, if you are in a location that has received accumulative snow or ice, check to ensure the pipe hasn’t been blocked by the frozen precipitation. If you need flue or ventilation pipe repair contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning for heating and  AC repair in Katy.

If these furnace troubleshootng tips fail to get your furnace back up and running, contact Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning to schedule heating and AC repair in Katy. In addition, our NATE certified technicians offer 24 hour emergency furnace repair for your convenience. Our technicians have the expertise and experience to provide repair and maintenance to most major brands, and provide service you can rely on. Furthermore, if you require furnace replacement contact us today. Our skilled technicians serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning is a member of the BBB with an A+ rating. 

Winter Care of the Air Conditioner 

Covering an unused air conditioner during the winter is the right thing to do.  By covering it, you are providing protection against debris such as debris, sand, acorns, sticks and leaves. In addition, a cover prevents rain or other precipitation from entering the system, where freezing temperatures can cause precipitation to freeze and may cause damage. Covering the unit assists in keeping maintenance costs and repair of the heating and air conditioning system down.

In addition, when storms occur, the potential for flying debris or hail causing damage to the air conditioner is reduced when it is covered.  Furthermore, your coil will benefit from remaining cleaner and the odds of rust developing are reduced. In fact, covering the air conditioner will generally extend the unit’s lifespan and can reduce maintenance and the potential cost of repairs. 

However, you gain the benefits of a cover only if you use the right type of cover. Using plastic can easily trap moisture inside that leads to rust and mold. The proper cover will include ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended type of cover. Secure the cover to prevent the wind from blowing it away. Furthermore, check on the cover weekly to ensure it remains secure, and remove any accumulating debris.  

In addition to scheduling regular maintenance of your home’s heating and air conditioning system, consider insulating the ducts. Duct insulation is especially beneficial when the duct work is shared by both the heating and air conditioning system. Sealing duct joints can prevent the loss of 20% of the energy consumed by the HVAC system. Insulating the ducts will increase the energy saved even further. Insulation is especially beneficial in ducts that are located in attics, and unfinished basements where extreme temperatures forces the system to work harder.

Finally, before placing the air conditioning in service, trim any foliage at least two feet from the condenser, and clear any clutter or debris that may impact the unit’s airflow. When spring arrives, contact our NATE certified technicians to schedule HVAC maintenance service for the best possible performance and efficiency. NATE certification ensures you receive an HVAC technician with the highest training, experience and skills, for a job done right the first time. 

In addition, remember during the winter months to change your heating system’s air filter to keep energy use and the need for repairs down. Ensuring a clean air filter maintains the system’s performance, improves air quality and assists to provide the longest lifespan possible.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning provides expert service and repair on all major brands of heating air conditioning systems. In addition, you can rely on our technicians to provide emergency service 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Contact a Cypress representative today to schedule heating and air conditioning  installation, service or repair, and air quality upgrades. We serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas, Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning is a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

There are a number of ways of saving energy in your home, and the installation of a programmable thermostat is an inexpensive solution for increasing both your comfort and reducing the energy bill. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning can assist you in saving energy with efficient heating and air conditioning. Our highly trained NATE certified technicians can provide the professional installation, repair or service you need to ensure the highest performance and efficiency for your home.

You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for a lower energy bill. One means of saving energy is adjusting the thermostat for the heating and air conditioning system to run less when family members are away from home, and at night while you sleep. The problem with doing so, is forgetting to make the adjustments, and coming home to an uncomfortable home. 

A programmable thermostat can automatically handle it for you, including changing the temperature prior to your arrival, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment as family members return home.  

Available Options

Five Day Work Week

Programmable thermostats offer a number of different options, allowing a custom fit for your schedule. One option is 5/2 setting, which allows you to use different settings during a five day work week than the two day weekend. 

The temperature is adjusted according to the season for the temperature you program, while family is away to work and school. You choose the time the heating and air conditioning system is to change the temperature in order to provide a comfortable home for returning family members. The temperature is again automatically adjusted to go into energy saving mode by adjusting the night time temperature while you sleep. During the weekend, the thermostat is programmed to the temperature and hours that suit your family schedule. This thermostat is ideal for families with a routine work week.

Seven Day Schedules

For those whose schedules vary from day to day, you can select a programmable thermostat with a seven day schedule. This thermostat allows you to create a different schedule for each day of the week. This thermostat is ideal for households with schedules that vary from day to day. 

Vacation Setting

Some programmable thermostats feature a vacation setting, useful when you will be away for an extended time, or a weekend away. 

More Tips to Save Energy

Use the following tips to save money on the cost of operating the heating and air conditioning system this winter:

Winter Tips

• Opening the drapes on sun filled windows allows the sun to help out with heating your home. Remember to close them once the sun moves away to help prevent the cold from entering. 
• Replace cracked or missing window caulking, worn or damaged door sweeps and weather stripping. Seal the gaps around incoming utility cables and pipes. When sealing gaps around ventilation pipes for gas burning appliances, only use an approved high temperature sealant. 
• Check the attic insulation and if the ceiling joists are visible, add insulation. However, don’t allow it to cover electrical boxes. The insulation seals in heat and may cause a fire. Use an approved heat tolerant sealant tolerant around electrical boxes, but never cover them with insulation in the attic.
• Don’t close off a number of registers in unused rooms, as it can affect the pressure in the heating and air conditioning system, resulting in premature wear and poor performance. If you find yourself practicing this routinely, consider a ductless system for heating just the rooms you use, but enabling the ability to heat or cool unused rooms when needed. A ductless heating and air conditioning system can save you significantly on the cost of energy for your home.
• The air filter should be changed monthly. Changing the filter is a simple step for increasing the energy efficiency if your heating and air conditioning system. Air filters vary in their required frequency of change and their abilities, so always consult the heating and air conditioning system’s manufacturer recommendation for air filter type and the frequency of change. Generally, changing or cleaning a filter is from each month to every 2-3 months depending on the type. Regardless of the type, check the filter at last each month, and change if necessary whether it is time or not.
• Wear a sweater, it costs you nothing and will enable you to reduce the temperature. For every degree the thermostat is lowered, you will save an additional 1% on energy.

Choose Energy Star 

When it is time to replace your heating and air conditioning system, choose Energy Star certified for maximum energy savings and increased reliability. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning NATE certified technicians can assist you in selecting the HVAC system right for you, your budget and saving energy. You can rely on our HVAC services, as NATE certification provides HVAC service technicians with the highest standard of training and practice available in the industry. Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning serve Katy, Plano and the surrounding areas. We are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.

It is essential to know when to replace the airfilter on your heating and air conditioning system in order toprovide cleaner air, the highest efficiency of the system, and to preventunnecessary wear and tear  that willresult in premature replacement of the system. There is no better time to consider upgrading the quality of airfiltration than when you are faced with the need for a new heating and airconditioning installation.

Filter Changes are Not Optional

The primary purpose of the air filteris to prevent large, potentially damaging particles from entering the systemand negatively impacting its performance and lifespan. In addition, the filtercan improve the indoor air quality high by reducing pollutants and allergens,when the right type of filter can be utilized by the system. A dirty filter notonly impacts the HVAC system’s performance and longevity, it alsoimpacts your health, especially for those with allergies and/or chronic lungdisease.

A dirty filter causes your system to workharder to pull air through the system, which can lead to overheating and wearwith the consequence of mechanical failure and the need for premature heatingand air conditioning installation. In addition, a dirty filtercan also increase the likelihood of conditions conducive to the growth of  harmful mold.

The Recommended Frequency

The recommended frequency of filter changedepends on a few factors. First, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines forfilter type and the frequency of change. This is why it is essential toconsider air filtration and air quality before heating and  air conditioning installation. Onceyou purchase a system and it is installed, you are limited to the recommendedtype of filter. For example, you simply can’t use a HEPA filter on just anysystem without risking overheating and damage to the HVAC system. If youwould like the benefits of HEPA filtration, discuss this with a CypressHeating and Air Conditioning technician during the initial consultation beforepurchase.

However, if your existing system is unable touse advanced air filtration, our NATE certified technicians can provide youwith a solution for cleaner air in your home. That said, the air filter of anytype should be inspected monthly. Filter type is a factor in the recommendedfrequency. For example, the basic blue fiberglass filter should be changedevery month. Pleated filters are typically changed every two to three months.However, it is essential to inspect the filter monthly, and change it whendirty, damaged or damp.

Filter Quality

Filter quality is determined by theirthickness and the materials used. Cheap fiberglass filters will requirefrequent inspection and replacement.

Consider the Environmental Factors

If your home is undergoing a dusty remodelingproject, or if you live in an area with frequent construction, near dutycommercial facilities, or on a farm, the filter should be checked every week ortwo, depending on the amount of dust in the air.

Home Occupants

Pets in your home will also increase thenecessary frequency of air filter changes. Pet dander circulates throughthe air, increasing allergies and the need for frequent filter changes.

Recommended Filters

When purchasing a new system for heating and airconditioning installation, if you select one designed for high efficiencyfilters, you will have options on which types of filters you can use.Filters come in a number of  MERVratings, and filters capable of trapping up to 99% of contaminants areavailable for the cleanest air possible with an approved HVAC unit.

Electrostatic filters are also an option forsystems that can safely use them. They extract a variety of contaminants, fromdust and mold to smoke.

Furthermore, while permanent filters may offerthe best protection for your system against airborne contaminants, rememberthey typically need to be cleaned once a month. Maintenance is a considerationin selecting a system for heating and air conditioning installation.

Cypress Heating and Air Conditioning provides NATE certified technicians you can rely on forsuperior services., and who can assist you with selecting an air filter, HVAC repair,and  heating and air conditioning installation. We serve Katy, Plano and thesurrounding areas, and are a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.