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Spring Moisture and Mold Risks Every Houston Home Needs to Address

Spring in Texas means longer days, warmer temperatures—and a big boost in humidity. While we all enjoy seeing the wildflowers bloom, the seasonal shift can spell trouble for your HVAC system if it isn’t properly maintained. And one of the biggest concerns this time of year? Mold growth inside your HVAC system.

At The AC Guy, we’ve been helping homeowners in The Woodlands, Conroe, Spring, and surrounding areas stay comfortable and healthy indoors for over a decade. One thing we’ve learned? Mold doesn’t need much to take root—just moisture, warmth, and a little neglect.

Here’s what causes mold to form, what signs to watch for, and what you can do this spring to keep your HVAC system clean and mold-free. Regular system checkups, like routine AC maintenance, play a key role in preventing those conditions from developing unnoticed.

Why Spring Is Prime Time for HVAC Mold

Your HVAC system works hard to maintain the perfect indoor temperature—but it’s also processing a lot of air, moisture, and dust behind the scenes. In spring, rising humidity levels combined with temperature swings can lead to condensation inside your ductwork, air handler, and coils.

If that moisture doesn’t drain properly—or if airflow is restricted—your system becomes a perfect home for mold spores. And once mold settles in, it doesn’t just stay hidden. It can spread throughout your duct system, reduce your indoor air quality, and trigger allergy-like symptoms in your household.

Your commercial building is a big investment that requires a lot of upkeep. One of the biggest things that you need to watch is the HVAC system because it will help people inside the building to be productive and comfortable. There are some HVAC problems that can be addressed easily, but others are caused by extreme wear and tear, or the system could have exceeded the lifespan.

We will share the three main signs that your HVAC system will need to be replaced.

Poor Air Quality Indoors

Your HVAC system will determine the quality of air inside your office. That is more apparent during summer when humidity is much higher. If you have an air conditioner, then it should produce clean air that you can breathe easily. When your unit is old and worn down, then it can cause poor air quality that can cause mildew, mold, and dust in the system.

Inconsistent Temperature Indoors

One of the main signs that your HVAC system needs to be replaced is that your unit has issues trying to keep the indoor temperatures consistent. That could be caused by different problems like damaged motors, low fluid levels, leaky ducts, dirty filters, or a faulty thermostat. Most of the time, the inconsistent temperatures are because your unit is not big enough to push the air through the whole space. It is something that often happens in older units, so it is best that you upgrade to a modern unit to provide your building with an environment that works for you and your employees.

Your HVAC System is Over 10 Years Old

Based on information by the Department of Energy, it is recommended that you replace your HVAC unit every ten years. Even though modern HVAC systems have been built to be durable, there are some parts that can begin to fail after ten years. If you continue to do routine maintenance and address repairs quickly, then your system can last up to 15 years. The rate of deterioration of your unit will be based on the usage, and if you are using your unit a lot, then it will need to be replaced sooner.

One of the best ways to tackle poor indoor air quality is with a clean home. Household chores can raise the quality of your indoor air, although usually, the most effective way to improve indoor air quality is to eliminate sources of pollution. Ventilation also helps remove or dilute indoor airborne pollutants coming from indoor sources. This reduces the level of contaminants and improves indoor air quality (IAQ).

If you want your home to stay comfortable year-round, you must take care of your HVAC unit. However, just like the other parts of your home, your unit will have an expected lifespan and eventually will need to be replaced. Even if you have an old unit, then it is probably a single-speed blower which is not as efficient as the more modern units. Variable-speed HVAC units are becoming more popular because of developments in HVAC units.

The A/C Guy is a trusted HVAC maintenance specialist, and we will tell you if it is worth switching your unit to a variable speed HVAC unit.

Great for Dehumidification

When you have a variable-speed HVAC unit, you will notice that there is not as much humidity in your home because it removes the moisture from the air without using a lot of energy. It also runs at a stable pace which helps to keep the humidity levels in the normal range without making you uncomfortable.

Enhanced Energy Efficiency

A single-speed HVAC unit will run at full capacity to keep your home at a level temperature. Once it reaches the temperature that you want, it will turn off and then turn on for the full day at full power. That is where a variable-speed HVAC system will be different. It will allow you to switch between the settings when it is regulating the temperature of your home. It also does not run full power at all times, so you get better energy efficiency.

If you want to have a quality HVAC unit for your home, turn to The A/C Guy. Besides installing your unit, we have the training and equipment needed to address all of your cooling and heating concerns. Call us today.

There's never an ideal time for your A/C to need repairs, and it's also not something you want to spend your money on. However, the famous Texas heat is at its peak, with no indication of waning anytime soon, making air conditioning an absolute necessity for everyone in the Greater Houston region.

To give you some clues on what to do if you run into a situation where you’re A/C gives out on you, our local industry experts have shared their top tips for when an A/C system fails.

How to Determine If The A/C Unit Requires Replacement

The first telltale sign of an A/C unit going bad would be a home that isn’t getting properly cooled. If you’ve set the temperature to a certain number, like 72, and observe that you’re A/C isn’t hitting that point, it can be an indication that there’s something wrong.

In this case, it’s advisable to refrain from trying to address the issue on your own as there’s a risk of you getting injured or making the problem even worse. The A/C Guy recommends that you always get in touch with a HVAC professional as soon as possible, and try to hire someone with extensive field experience and relevant training so they can accurately diagnose and resolve your issue.

Repair or Replace?

After coming to the realization that your A/C isn’t working, you are faced with another predicament, and that is deciding between repairs or replacements. Do you get your existing unit fixed, or just buy a new one? Usually, older units often require frequent repairs which can be both costly and inconvenient in the long run. A new system doesn’t only help you save on repair costs, but is also much more energy-efficient, which can lower your power bills significantly.

It's the middle of summer, and hot temperatures are keeping your air conditioner running non-stop. Suddenly - almost if on queue - your HVAC stops running. You call your local HVAC repair team, only to find out that their emergency AC repair services will cost you an arm and a leg.

HVAC problems come in all shapes and sizes, and never at a time that is convenient for you. If you're not prepared, an unexpected air conditioner emergency can really put a damper on your summer fun.

So what should you do if you find yourself in need of 24 hour AC repair services?

How to Determine if You Need Emergency AC Repair

Before you bring out the big guns (aka, call for emergency A/C repair service), it's essential to determine if your situation is truly an AC emergency.

There are a few key indicators that you should look for which will help you decide whether or not you need to call for immediate assistance:

Texas Weather Can Be Brutal—Is Your HVAC System Ready?

Living in Texas means facing extreme weather—blistering summers, sudden cold fronts, and unpredictable temperature swings. Your HVAC system works tirelessly to keep your home comfortable year-round, but over time, even the most reliable system will experience common HVAC issues that can impact its performance.

Small issues can quickly become major problems without regular HVAC maintenance, leading to expensive air conditioning repairs or even a complete HVAC system replacement. The good news? Most of these problems can be prevented with the right HVAC tips and proactive care.

Scheduling routine HVAC tune-ups ensures your system is running efficiently and helps identify minor issues before they become costly repairs. If your unit struggles to keep up with demand, it might be time for a , professional AC repair or a heating system inspection to prevent unexpected breakdowns.

We’ll explain the most frequent HVAC problems Texas homeowners face, provide practical solutions for fixing HVAC issues, and help you recognize when it’s time to call The AC Guy for professional HVAC services, from , emergency AC repairs to complete air conditioning systems and heating systems installation.

Fast Fixes: HVAC Tips for Common Problems

Not every HVAC issue requires a major repair—sometimes, a simple fix can get your system back on track. Before calling a professional, try these quick HVAC tips to troubleshoot common problems and improve system performance.

In Texas, the heat is no joke. When the temps are high and the humidity is low, it feels like we're living in an oven. That's why a working air conditioner is essential - not just for comfort but for survival!

If you live in the Woodlands or Conroe, TX, region, you know how important it is to keep your A/C in tip-top shape. And a big part of that is making sure your evaporator and condenser coils are clean and working correctly.

So, what exactly are these coils, and how do they ensure efficient A/C operation? Let's take a closer look - and how you can keep them clean.

How Your A/C Keeps You Cool

Let's start with a quick refresher on how your A/C works. When you turn on your air conditioner, it pulls in hot, humid air from your home and passes it over a series of coils filled with refrigerant.

As the hot air hits the coils, the refrigerant inside them starts to evaporate. This process absorbs heat from the air, cooling it down in the process.

The days are getting shorter, the nights are getting longer, and the temperature is dropping. That can only mean one thing: winter is coming.

And while we may not be able to control the weather, there are some things we can do to prepare our homes (and ourselves) for the colder months ahead. One of those things is scheduling a furnace tune-up.

Just like your car, your furnace needs regular maintenance to run efficiently and effectively. A tune-up can help identify potential problems before they become major repairs, and it can also help your furnace run more efficiently, which can save you money on your energy bills.

Fortunately, we've put together a handy checklist to help you prepare your furnace for winter. So, grab a cup of warm coffee, and let's start!

Your Winter Furnace Checklist

1. Check Your Air Filter

One of the most important things you can do to maintain your furnace is regularly checking and replacing your air filter. A dirty air filter will not only make your furnace work harder, but it can also lead to health problems for you and your family. We recommend checking your air filter once a month and replacing it as needed.

The Cost of Air Conditioner Repairs

An air conditioner failure can be quite distressing, particularly during hot weather. While some repairs might require a significant outlay, others are minor and affordable. This guide provides insights into different air conditioner repair costs and suggests when a replacement might be a more reasonable option.

Outdoor air conditioning unit. Central AC Repair Standard central AC unit repair costs vary from $100-$650.

Air conditioner machine inside an office building. Split AC Repair The average repair costs for a Mini-Split unit are approximately $750-$900.

HVAC heating and air conditioning residential units or heat pump. AC Replacement For a complete AC replacement, anticipated costs range from $2,500-$15,000.

Air Conditioner Repair Cost Breakdown The repair costs for central AC units typically range between $100–$650. However, not all components can be fixed, and replacements can be pricey. Below are the crucial factors affecting repair costs.

As the scorching summer heat arrives, your air conditioner works overtime to keep your home cool. But suddenly, you notice problems like reduced airflow or your AC blowing warm air. Your unit might be freezing up.

AC freezing disrupts cooling and can cause severe damage if left unchecked. Read this guide to understand what causes AC units to freeze, learn how to diagnose and troubleshoot freezing issues, and get tips to prevent AC freezing in summer.

What Causes an Air Conditioner to Freeze Up?

Air conditioners remove heat and humidity from indoor air to provide cool comfort. But why does an AC freeze up when its purpose is cooling?

Some common causes of AC freezing include:

Low Refrigerant Levels: Not having enough refrigerant can make the evaporator coil extremely cold and freeze.

Poor Airflow: Restricted airflow due to a dirty filter, blocked vents, or closed registers causes freezing.

Is your house feeling too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter? Are you overheating or freezing every time you enter your home? Chances are, your outdated HVAC system may need replacing. Purchasing a new unit is likely not on your to-do list, but delaying will only cost you more money over time. Let's evaluate the situation together. We'll review all the signs indicating it's time to call professional HVAC technicians for service or replacements.

With helpful insights, you can make an informed decision that potentially saves on expenses going forward. Soon you'll be experiencing cool, comfortable air in your home once again. Just having the right information and a qualified HVAC technician can restore enjoyable air temperature. Now, let's examine the specifics in more detail. Here is essential information about what factors to consider in replacing an aging air conditioner system.

Warning Signs Your HVAC System Needs Replacing

There are a few key indicators that show your HVAC system is due for replacement. Keep an eye out for these common warning signs that signal your unit is no longer up to the task:

Ensuring Your Air Conditioner Lasts

Spending time and money on an air conditioning (AC) unit is a big investment, so it is essential to recognize the preventative care required to extend your AC’s lifespan. When maintaining your AC unit, you save financially and through the overall comfort of your environment. It may be a sign that it is time to repair your AC unit if you are experiencing leaks, electrical issues, clogged filters, or general system neglect. Preventative care and regular maintenance are crucial in preserving an AC’s lifespan, so let’s look at our top tips for extending the life of your AC.

Do-It-Yourself Maintenance Tips for Your AC System

It doesn’t always require a professional to keep up with your AC maintenance. Here are a few simple things you can do yourself to upkeep your AC system and extend its lifespan.

Why Spring AC Tune-Ups Matter

As the hot Texas summer approaches, your AC system becomes a necessity for comfort and relief. With the temperatures rising, your AC unit will begin to feel the strain and will have to work overtime to keep up with the heat. You may not be thinking much about your HVAC system when it’s running smoothly and the temperatures are cool, but it is key to catch any issues when they are small to save you money, improve air quality, and increase your home's energy efficiency.

If your AC unit is not properly maintained, the likelihood of it breaking down becomes much more significant. Without proper upkeep, your unit may not be running as efficiently as it could be. By proactively maintaining your AC unit in the spring, you can ensure it will be running efficiently by summer to beat the Texas heat. With proper care, you can keep your unit running smoothly as temperatures rise.

The Cost-Saving Benefits of AC Tune-Ups

Regular AC tune-ups allow for cost-saving benefits due to keeping your AC unit running efficiently. A well-maintained AC unit can improve energy efficiency, resulting in a reduction in your energy bill. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a maintained AC system improves energy efficiency by 5% - 15%. An AC unit that is clean and functioning well will work less to achieve the same results, allowing it to last significantly longer, and saving you money in the long run.

The lifespan of your AC unit is greatly dependent on how well it is maintained. By regularly maintaining your AC unit, you can potentially double its lifespan. With regular AC maintenance, you will save money long-term and keep your AC system running more efficiently. When you overlook the importance of regular AC tune-ups, you risk safety hazards, poor air quality within your home, and increased repair costs.

By utilizing the AC Guy for a tune-up, you can lengthen the life of your AC unit and increase your system's efficiency. With regular preventative maintenance on your AC system, you can expect an AC system to last about 15-20 years.

As the hot Texas summer draws near, homeowners across the Lone Star State prepare for sweltering temperatures and high humidity levels. With the excitement of pool parties and BBQs, it's easy to overlook one essential aspect of summer readiness: your home's air conditioning system.

It’s important to understand how to be proactive through AC maintenance, particularly in making sure your units are primed and ready for the Texas heat ahead. Scheduling a pre-summer AC tune-up is not just a recommendation but a necessity for Texans looking to stay cool and comfortable all summer long.

6 Reasons a Pre-Summer AC Tune-Up is a Must for Texas Homeowners

One of the best steps you can take is to get your AC inspected by a professional HVAC technician, such as The AC Guy, before the temperatures soar. A professional tune-up ensures peace of mind, saves you money over the years, enhances your AC cooling performance, improves indoor air quality, and extends the lifespan of your equipment, allowing for your family's safety.

Here are six reasons why getting your AC maintenance done before summer is a must for Texas homeowners:

1. Create a Quiet Backyard Space

Summer in The Woodlands, Texas means backyard barbecues, pool parties, and serene evenings spent on the patio. However, the joy of outdoor gatherings can quickly be dampened by the noise of a clunky, noisy AC unit.

In Texas, the summer heat can be intense, with average high temperatures reaching around 90 degrees in many parts of the state, including The Woodlands. As the mercury rises, having a reliable air conditioning system becomes a necessity. It is crucial to detect signs of potential malfunctions before your cooling unit fails, so be sure to pay close attention to any abnormalities among these indicators, as they may signal issues with the evaporator coil.

Understanding Evaporator Coils

Among the essential components of HVAC systems, the evaporator coil plays an important role in regulating temperatures. These coils are in place within the air conditioning unit to absorb any heat from the air leading to lower temperatures within the air-conditioned space. Over time, factors such as wear and tear, dirt buildup, or even refrigerant leaks can compromise its efficiency, leading to decreased cooling performance and potential AC system breakdowns.

The AC Guy takes a detailed approach to evaporator coil replacements to ensure your entire HVAC system is reaching its full potential. By addressing this component with precision and expertise, we ensure the continued comfort as well as efficiency of your HVAC system. With The AC Guy, we do not only guarantee optimal performance but also extend the lifespan of your cooling systems. This ultimately saves you from costly repairs and replacements that may occur overtime.

7 Signs That Your Evaporator Coil Needs Replacing

Recognizing signs that your evaporator coil may require replacing is important for maintaining both the efficiency and longevity of your HVAC system. We specialize in addressing these indicators with expertise. Here are signs that indicate your evaporator coil may need replacing:

1. Reduced Cooling: You may notice your air conditioning system is struggling to stay at the set temperature. If you find that some areas of your home are not staying cooled, this could be a sign of evaporator coil issues.