When is a Good Time to Get my AC Serviced?

Around the DFW metroplex, barely a month goes by when we don’t use our air conditioners – even in the “winter” season where we can have an ice storm one week, then two weeks later it’s into the 80’s! With the chance we’ll need to use our AC pretty soon, regular maintenance for air conditioning systems in homes more essential than ever. It’s very important to schedule a maintenance tune-up and inspection each year with our technicians.

When should you schedule your air conditioning maintenance in Dallas, TX? It’s just before it starts getting hot – early spring / April time frame. Our weather heats up fast once the warmer season starts. So the best time for maintenance is right now!

We’re not looking to push you, but we do recommend scheduling your maintenance early in the season because it will benefit you more. You’ll have an easier time getting on our calendar at a convenient time, and you’ll avoid the first day of intense searing heat, when your AC is most needed.

Every year, routine maintenance is required.

This is something that a lot of people get wrong. They believe that maintaining an air conditioner is a once-in-a-while big expense rather than something that must be done every year. However, all HVAC specialists agree that it should be done once a year, with spring being the optimal time.

What is the significance of maintenance? Here’s what might happen if your air conditioner isn’t serviced on a regular basis.

Warranty Voided

Part of the air conditioning system’s equipment warranty says that it must be maintained on a regular basis or the guarantee will be voided. This can result in a customer having to pay a significant amount of money for repairs that would have been covered under the warranty.

More Repairs Down the Road

Maintenance neglect accounts for more than half of the repairs required by an air conditioning system over its lifetime. A homeowner can avoid more than half of future repairs just by keeping up with maintenance—a significant savings that is also far more convenient.

Early Failure

An air conditioner’s estimated service life includes annual maintenance. If you don’t keep up with your maintenance, your life expectancy will begin to dwindle. After only 7 years, an air conditioner that was supposed to last 15 years may need to be replaced, which is a costly “repair.”

Loss of energy efficiency

An air conditioner’s energy efficiency rating means nothing if it isn’t professionally maintained every year. It will lose roughly 5% of its efficiency each year on average. Over the course of its service life, it will lose 5% of its efficiency due to maintenance. The cost of running an air conditioner can be drastically different as a result of this.

Break Down on a Hot Day

No one wants their air conditioner to go down in the height of summer. However, without maintenance, this becomes a much more likely scenario. Consider maintenance as a preventative measure against a cooling emergency. One of the highest benefits is having peace of mind!

Signs that you may need to Repair Your HVAC Unit

There are several signs that you may need to repair your HVAC unit, and it’s best not to ignore them. If you do, you risk causing further harm to your system, resulting in more repairs and more money being spent. Dallas Heating and Air Conditioning can provide you with a wide range of affordable repair services. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you see any of the following happening.

Signs That It’s Time To Repair Your Air Conditioner

Lower airflow problems, higher energy bills, and odd noises are all symptoms that your HVAC system needs to be looked at. The severity of the problem will be determined by how long the problem has been there or what faults are present in your system.

Unusual Noises

When most heating and air conditioning units are turned on, they create some noise. It’s usually nothing to be concerned about. You’ll usually hear a low hum. However, if you’ve recently heard louder, more sudden, or odd sounds, it’s possible that anything is amiss.

The type of sounds you hear can help you figure out what’s wrong. Buzzing and rattling are signs that a component is loose. Grinding and whistling, on the other hand, could indicate a far more serious problem. You’ll need the help of a professional repair firm to figure out what’s causing the noise. Dallas Heating and Air Conditioning’s crew has years of experience and can do a complete assessment to determine the source of the issue.

Air Quality Issues

If your air conditioner is blowing hot air or has a weak airflow, it could be a clue that something needs to be fixed. If your system continues to blow warm air even when it is set to cool, the problem could be due to a lack of airflow. Insufficient airflow can also indicate that your system is having issues. A clogged duct, clogged air filter, or a broken motor bearing could all be to blame.

Whatever problems your system is having, it will have a detrimental impact on the air quality in your home. Make sure you call Dallas Heating and Air Conditioning right away to get the problem fixed. That way, you and your family can get the most out of your air conditioning system.

Energy Costs are Through the Roof

There will be a cause for the sudden increase in your energy bill. Because your system isn’t working as efficiently as it once was, the aforementioned difficulties can all lead to a higher bill. As a result, you’ll consume more energy, which will raise your energy bill. Of course, other factors such as filthy air filters or duct leaks could contribute to a higher energy cost. However, they are all related to the same problem: repairs are required.

Make sure you contact Dallas Heating and Air Conditioning right away if you want to avoid another large energy bill.Our experts can make certain that your system runs smoothly and efficiently.

Dallas Heating and Air Conditioning can verify that your heating and cooling systems are in good working order. Not only will this enhance the quality of your air and provide you a better experience, but it will also save you money!

10 Ways To Improve Efficiency In Your AC

Improving the efficiency of your air conditioner not only saves you money on energy bills but also ensures a longer lifespan for your system. Here at Dallas Heating and Air Conditioning, we prioritize helping you keep your home comfortable while maximizing your AC unit’s performance. Here are 10 effective ways to improve the efficiency of your air conditioner:

1. Clean and Maintain Your Vents

Dirty and dusty vents can significantly reduce your air conditioner’s efficiency. Blocked ventilation forces your AC unit to work harder, which can lead to increased energy consumption and higher bills. Regular cleaning of interior vents and ducts helps maintain smooth airflow and optimal cooling performance. It might be beneficial to schedule professional vent and duct cleaning periodically to ensure they remain in top condition.

2. Keep Air Filters Clean

Dirty air filters can severely impact your AC’s efficiency by restricting airflow and forcing the unit to work harder to cool your home. This not only decreases efficiency but also increases energy costs. Regularly cleaning or replacing air filters can resolve this issue. Depending on your AC unit, you might be able to clean the filters yourself or need a professional service. Aim to check and clean filters every month during the cooling season.

3. Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat allows you to set a schedule for your AC, ensuring it only runs when necessary. For example, you can set it to turn off while you’re away during the day and turn it back on just before you return home. This prevents the energy waste associated with cooling an empty house and can lead to significant savings on your utility bills.

4. Check for Ductwork Leaks

Leaking ductwork can lead to a loss of cool air, making your AC work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Over time, ducts can develop cracks or leaks, causing cool air to escape and warm air to enter the system. Regular inspections and sealing any leaks can enhance your AC’s efficiency. Consider hiring a professional to check your ductwork if you suspect leaks or notice a decrease in cooling efficiency.

5. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient AC Unit

If your current air conditioner is old, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. Look for units with the ENERGY STAR and EnergyGuide labels, which indicate higher efficiency standards. Modern air conditioners with higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios (SEER) are about 15% more efficient than standard models. Investing in a new, energy-efficient unit can provide long-term savings on energy costs and improved cooling performance.

6. Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit

Debris such as leaves, branches, and tall grasses around your outdoor condenser unit can block airflow and reduce efficiency. Ensure there is at least a 2-foot clearance around the unit to facilitate proper airflow. Regularly checking and clearing debris from around the condenser unit helps maintain optimal cooling performance and prevents unnecessary strain on the system.

7. Schedule Regular Preventative Maintenance

Routine maintenance is crucial for keeping your AC system running efficiently. Professional technicians can perform comprehensive inspections, clean essential components, and address minor issues before they escalate into major problems. Regular maintenance ensures all parts are functioning correctly and helps maintain the system’s efficiency over time. Consider enrolling in a maintenance plan for consistent upkeep.

8. Provide Shade for Your Outdoor Unit

Shading your outdoor unit can reduce the strain on the system and decrease wear and tear. However, ensure that the shade does not obstruct airflow. Strategically placed trees, shrubs, or an awning can provide effective shading while allowing sufficient airflow around the unit. This can help lower the operating temperature of the unit, improving efficiency and extending its lifespan.

9. Optimize Thermostat Placement

The location of your thermostat significantly impacts your air conditioner’s efficiency. Avoid placing the thermostat in hot areas, such as near windows or lamps, as it can lead to inaccurate temperature readings and inefficient cooling cycles. Ideally, the thermostat should be placed in a central, shaded location that accurately reflects the average temperature of your home.

10. Implement Zoning Controls

Zoning controls allow you to regulate the temperature of different areas in your home independently. By dividing your home into zones and adjusting the cooling levels accordingly, you can ensure that each area receives the appropriate amount of cooling without overworking the system. This not only improves comfort but also enhances overall efficiency by preventing unnecessary cooling of unused spaces.

Additional Tips for Efficient AC Use

While the above strategies are effective, there are additional tips you can follow to maximize your AC’s efficiency:

Use AC Only When Necessary: Open windows and use natural airflow to cool your home on milder days.
Set the Temperature Higher: Every degree you raise the temperature on your thermostat can save on energy costs.
Use Fans Wisely: Ceiling fans can help circulate cool air, reducing the workload on your AC. However, remember to turn off fans when leaving a room to avoid unnecessary energy use.
Close Off Unused Rooms: Direct cool air to areas where it’s needed most by closing vents in unused rooms.

By following these tips and ensuring regular maintenance, you can keep your air conditioner running efficiently, saving money on energy bills and extending the life of your system. For professional AC maintenance, repair, or replacement services in Dallas, TX, contact Dallas Heating and Air Conditioning at (214) 710-2515. Our certified experts are here to help you achieve optimal cooling performance and comfort in your home.

Is It Better To Leave The AC On All Day?

Summers in Texas are extremely hot. Because it’s so hot, many people turn on their air conditioners earlier than normal and leave them on for the entire day. Is this, however, the best cooling method? Should you switch off the air conditioner during the day and only use it when necessary?

Some say it’s best for you only use your unit when needed, while others argue that this will cost more in electricity due them having turned off parts of their system like fans and other mechanisms- isn’t there another way? Continue reading below!

Should You Leave The Air Conditioner On All Day?

Leaving your air conditioner on is more efficient than turning it on and off repeatedly. Using your air conditioner allows you to better control humidity levels in your home. The lower the humidity, the more comfortable it is in the summertime.

It’s also more energy-efficient to leave your AC on all day during the summer months because your unit won’t have to work as hard to cool down your home after it’s been off for a period of time. When you turn on your air conditioner, it takes some time to cool down the room or house to the preferred temperature. During this time, the AC is working harder and using more energy.

If you have an older air conditioner, it may be less efficient than newer models. In this case, it may be better to turn it off during the day when you don’t need it and only turn it on a few hours before you come home or go to bed.

There are a few things to consider when deciding whether to leave your air conditioner on all day or not. If you have pets, it’s important to make sure they will be left at a comfortable temperature. Leaving the AC on will help keep your home at a constant temperature and prevent your pet from being exposed to extreme temperatures.

If you have young children, it’s also important to make sure their environment is kept cool and comfortable during the summer months. Children’s bodies are not as efficient at regulating their internal temperature as adults, so they can be more susceptible to heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses.

In general, it’s best to keep your air conditioner on during the summer months. This will help you stay comfortable and prevent your home from becoming too hot or humid. If you have an older air conditioning system, you may want to consider turning it off during the day when you don’t need it to save on utility bills.

Turn AC Up Not Off

If you’ve been debating on whether to keep your air conditioner running or turn it off when you leave for work, there’s actually a third option: turn it up.

Leaving your AC on all day is the most efficient way to keep your home cool, but if you’re worried about your cooling bills, turning the temperature up a few degrees can help reduce costs without making your house too hot.

The Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees when you’re home and need cooling, and 85 degrees when you’re away for more than four hours. This may seem like a big difference, but remember that most homes have some level of insulation that will help keep the inside ambient temperature closer to the outside temperature than if the AC were turned off completely.

Of course, these are just guidelines, and you should adjust your thermostat to whatever temperature you and your family are comfortable with. But if you’re looking to save money on your energy bills, turning up the AC to higher, energy-saving temperatures when you leave for the day or just a couple of hours is a good place to start.

There are a few different ways to automate your thermostat so that it turns up when you leave and back down when you come home. Many newer thermostats have built-in features that allow them to connect to your smartphone and adjust the temperature based on your location.

If your thermostat doesn’t have this feature, you can buy a separate device that attaches to your thermostat and does the same thing. These devices, which are often called “smart plugs,” can be controlled with your smartphone and are relatively inexpensive.

Get More Savings With a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a device that allows you to control the temperature in your home using a set schedule.

One way to save on energy costs is to invest in a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat can be set to leave air conditioner at a slightly higher temperature setting when you’re not home and turn it back down a few hours before you return. This will save on money on electric bills while still keeping your home cool and comfortable.

If you’re not sure how to use a programmable thermostat, there are many resources available online and in stores. You can also ask your local utility company for help.

Does turning off your air conditioner save money?

The answer to this question is a little complicated. In general, it’s more energy-efficient to leave your air conditioner on all day than to turn it off and on multiple times. However, there are some circumstances where it may be better to turn off your air conditioner.

If you have an older air conditioner, it may use more energy to start up again after being turned off for a few hours than it would to run continuously. In this case, it may be better to leave the air conditioner off during the day and only turn it on a few hours before you need it.

Another factor to consider is how often you’ll be home during the day. If you’re gone for most of the day, there’s no need to keep your air conditioner running. However, if you’re home for most of the day, it’s better to keep the air conditioner on so that you can stay comfortable.

Save Money On Cooling Bills In The Summer

There are a few things to consider when deciding whether to turn off your air conditioner during the day. In general, it’s more energy-efficient to leave your AC on all day than to turn it off and on multiple times. However, if you have an older AC or will be gone for most of the day, turning it off may be more cost-effective. You can also save money by using a programmable thermostat to set the temperature higher when you’re not home. Ultimately, the decision of whether to leave your AC on all day or turn it off depends on your individual circumstances.

Will Central AC Save Money Over A Window AC?

When choosing the right air conditioning unit, there are many factors to consider when trying to determine which one is the best. Texas is no stranger to hot and humid summers. If you live in the Lone Star State, then you know that a central air conditioner is a must-have for any home. But how much will it cost to switch from a window unit to central air?

The answer depends on a few factors. The size of your home, the climate you live in, and the type of construction all play a role in how much money you can invest in air conditioners and energy costs.

If you’re wondering on which type of air conditioning unit for your home, then continue reading!

Is it cheaper to run central AC or window units?

Central air conditioning systems are more expensive to purchase, but they can save you money on your energy bill in the long run. Window air conditioners, on the other hand, are less expensive to purchase, but they use more electricity and can only cool the room they are in.

If you want to cool more than five rooms, however, one central air conditioner will save you money in the long term. Central air conditioners are also more energy-efficient than window air conditioners, so you’ll save hundreds of dollars on your electricity bill every month.

Does Central AC Save More Energy?

If you’re wondering whether a central air conditioner is a lot more energy savvy than window types then the answer, quite simply, is yes. Central air conditioning systems are more energy-efficient than window air conditioners, meaning you’ll save money on your monthly energy bill.

Central AC units save more energy than window air conditioners in two ways.

First, the compressor is located outside the home, so it doesn’t have to work as hard to cool the air. Additional features like two-stage compressors and variable-speed fans also help central air conditioners run more efficiently.

Second, a central air conditioner is a central air unit that can cool your home more evenly because the cool air is distributed through a system of ducts. Window air conditioners can only cool the room they’re in, so you might have to adjust to comfortable temperatures frequently.

If you’re in the market for a new air conditioning unit and want to get a bang for your buck, central AC is the way to go. Investing in one will not only save money on energy bill each month, but you’ll also be doing your part to help conserve energy.

Is a Central AC Unit Worth It?

If you’re looking for an AC unit that can keep an entire home cool, a central air conditioning system is the best option.

Central air conditioning is different compared to other types of AC units because it’s designed to cool an entire home at once. If you live in a climate where the summers are especially hot, such as Texas, central AC is the best option for keeping your home cool and comfortable.

While modern air conditioner units have become popular, such as portable air conditioners, it doesn’t quite have the power to cool down an entire house. There are many portable air conditioner models out in the market today. Being a smaller-size air conditioner, they offer the same cooling power as a window type air conditioner without the hassle of installation.

Window air conditioning is just as good as both a central air conditioners and portable air conditioners, but can be costly to maintain. They can also be limited to only a single room, and may not be as durable. Setting temperatures with a central AC unit can also be done with more precision than a window unit.

One of the most common advantages of central air conditioning is how it adapts to the indoor temperature to get you that ideal temperature for your home. Central air conditioners can also reach more than just one room, making it perfect for homes with more than one floor.

Texas is a great example of a state where central air conditioning is the best option. The summers in Texas are notoriously hot, and window air conditioners just can’t keep up with the demand. If you live in a climate like this, it’s important to invest in a central air conditioning system if you want to stay cool and save money on your energy bill.

Typical Residential HVAC Cooling Load

Most U.S. homes have a cooling load that falls somewhere between 15 and 30 BTUs per square foot of living space. However, loads can differ significantly from one home to the next based on numerous factors including:

The size, age, and orientation of the home.
The amount of insulation in the walls, ceilings, and floors.
The number and type of windows in the home.
The climate in the region where the home is located.

For example, a well-insulated newer home in a hot, sunny climate will have a higher cooling load than an older home with poor insulation in a cooler climate. Therefore, it’s important to determine the specific cooling load for your home before selecting an AC unit.

A professional HVAC contractor can help you determine your home’s cooling load, and will recommend the right size AC unit for your needs.

How can I reduce my electric bill with AC?

There are a number of ways to reduce your electric bill with AC, but one of the most effective is to install a central air conditioning unit. Central unit AC systems are more efficient than even an energy star window air conditioner, and can save you money on your energy bills.

Another way to reduce your electric bill with AC is to use a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats can be set to turn the AC off when you are not home, or during times when you do not need it, such as at night. This can save you money on your energy bills, as well as reducing wear and tear on your AC unit.

AC units also come in different sizes, and it is important to choose the right size for your home. An AC unit that is too small will have to work harder to cool your home, and will use more energy. On the other hand, an AC unit that is too large will waste energy.

A smart thermostat is a great way to save money on your electric bill, as it can be programmed to turn the AC off when you are not home, or during times when you do not need it. Smart thermostats take this a step further, by learning your habits and adjusting the temperature automatically to save energy. For example, if you usually turn the AC off at night, the smart thermostat will learn this and will automatically turn off the AC at night. This can save you a lot of money on your energy bills over time.

Save Money On Your Air Conditioning Bills

Central AC is more efficient than window AC and can save you money on your energy bill. There are a number of ways to reduce your electric bill with AC, but one of the most effective is to install a central air conditioning unit. Central unit AC systems are more efficient than even an energy star window air conditioner, and can save you money on your energy bills.

Finally, you can save money on your electric bill with AC by making sure that your unit is properly maintained. Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your unit running efficiently, and will prolong its life. This can save you money in the long run, as well as ensuring that your AC unit is always ready to keep your home cool.

Top 4 Reasons Why my AC System is Not Blowing Cold Air

Your home’s air conditioning system is one of the largest home appliance investments you will ever make.

Today, we are going to go over some of the reasons why your air conditioning system has stopped blowing cold air, as well as some ways to keep your system running efficiently for longer and protect your investment! As always, if you are not familiar with the workings on an AC system, it’s always best to call the pros at Dallas Heating and Air Conditioning for all of your AC repair needs.

Let’s begin by exploring some of those issues and hopefully this will educate our valued homeowners, and shed some light on the importance of keeping your air conditioner in top form.

Faulty Capacitors

Many HVAC companies around the Dallas area receive calls from a frustrated home owners where they think their system has died, is so old that it needs replacing. That is not always the case.

The compressor in your air conditioning system’s outside unit needs to be supplied with a jolt of power when it starts up as well as subsequent jolts to keep running. This jolt of power comes from a capacitor located near the compressor in the outside unit.

A capacitor stores energy, similar to a rechargeable battery, so when it is time for the compressor to start, the capacitor sends over this additional power. The two main reasons to cause a capacitor to fail are heat and power surges – in Texas summers, unfortunately we get those in spades.

Replacing a burned out capacitor is a straight forward job, and we can usually repair your system in about an hour – assuming that’s the only issue preventing your system from working. You can breathe a sigh of relief when having to pay for a new capacitor instead of a whole new system!

Dirty Air Filters Can Block Air Flow

Another common issue we see all the time is one of the easiest items for a homeowner to address is a dirty air filter. Air filters are designed to block dust and dirt from being cycled through your home. Over time, so much debris accumulates in this filter, the air flow is reduced, to the point where the system can no longer move air.

It’s in your best interest to not only change your air filter monthly, but consider upgrading to a better filter choice! Air filter replacements are a part of any HVAC maintenance program, but it is also something that you as a homeowner can make sure happens every month, again protecting your investment.

Thermostat and Cooling Switch Issues

The thermostat is connected to the AC system and determines when it should run or stop. If it’s and older model, it can be prone to either being out of calibration or basic malfunctions as it is just like any other device in your home and could be subject to failure at any given moment. Having a professional technician come out and properly diagnose any thermostat malfunctions tends to be one of the rather simpler solutions when air conditioners begin blowing less cold air.

If you have an older thermostat, you may want to consider an upgrade to a new “smart” thermostat. The technology in these not only allows you to program the system for your custom needs, it also helps you to save money by operating the system more efficiently. Ask us about the new smart thermostats.

Dirty Condenser Coils

In the outside unit, there are large coils around the edge of your enclosure. These condenser coils are where the heat from your home is eliminated through a fan forcing the heat off of the coils as the refrigerant attracts the heat, transfers it through copper tubing to the condenser, and as it weaves its way through that coil, the fan rushes across the surface to dissipate the heat.

It is important that these condensing coils be keep flushed out with water every few months to ensure that any debris is not blocking the air flow. If you have trees which drop lots of pollen, small leaves, cotton etc, they could all clog up the tiny fins and prevent the unit from cooling the refrigerant, thus your system blows less cold air! You should have a full inspection of the condenser coil, and condensing fan motor twice a year for maximum cooling capacity from your system on those days that it is needed the most.

There you have it – some of the more frequent situations where your air conditioner will tell you that there is a problem by blowing less cold air. This is where a residential HVAC maintenance plan from the team of professionals here at Dallas Heating and Air Conditioning can literally pay for itself.

When you implement a maintenance agreement, our professional service technicians will check for all of these issues, and more. This can alert you to the need of replacing small inexpensive parts before they catastrophically fail leading to your displeasure as well as an expensive air conditioner repair invoice.

Our team will take the time to present to you the pros and cons of the needed repair during an annual air conditioner maintenance inspection and no work will be done until you say okay! An HVAC maintenance agreement puts you in total control of each HVAC dollar spent in your household.

3 Problems a Furnace Performance Check Can Uncover

Dallas County

Collin County

Denton County

Tarrant County

Rockwall County