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In the Texas heat of summer, a properly functioning air conditioning unit is a necessity. Ensuring your AC lasts longer isn't just about comfort, but it's also about smart maintenance and proactive care. By taking a few simple steps, you can extend the lifespan of your AC system while keeping your home both cool and comfortable.

10 Tips to Make Your AC Last Longer and Beat the Summer Heat

Here are ten essential tips and tricks to make sure your AC continues to run efficiently and stays resilient, allowing you to stay refreshed throughout the hot summer months.

1. Start with a Professional AC Installation

Beginning with a professional AC installation, such as the services provided by The AC Guy, is essential for maximizing the lifespan of your system. Professional installation ensures that all components work seamlessly together, minimizing the risk of any future malfunctions and repairs. By entrusting your AC installation to experts, you can have confidence in the longevity and efficiency of your cooling system.

2. Clean or Replace Air Filters

Regularly cleaning and replacing the air filters is crucial for extending the life of your AC unit. Dirty AC filters restrict airflow, leading to increased strain on the system as it works harder to maintain comfortable temperatures. By cleaning or replacing filters every 1-3 months, you can ensure proper airflow, reduce strain on the AC components, and ultimately prolong the lifespan of your unit.

3. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean

By keeping the outdoor unit of your AC clean, you can extend its lifespan. Regular removal of debris near the unit, such as leaves, grass, and dirt can prevent airflow blockage, which allows the system to operate efficiently without strain.

Air conditioners are essential to keeping homes cool and comfortable during hot weather. However, they are not immune to wear and tear and will need to be repaired and eventually replaced over their lifetime. If you are experiencing issues with your AC, use the signs below to determine if your air conditioner needs repair or replacement.

5 Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Repair

In most cases, you can repair your air conditioning unit rather than replace it if you are experiencing any of the following problems.

1.Warm Air Coming From Your AC

Warm air coming from your AC vents is not immediately a cause for replacement. There are many different reasons for this and potential solutions. You may have a faulty thermostat that, although set to the correct temperature, is not transmitting that temperature to your AC. There could also be a compressor issue or restricted airflow causing the warm air.

2.AC Unit Leaking Refrigerant

If your air conditioner is leaking refrigerant, it is typically an easy issue to fix. You may notice pooling water or ice built up on the refrigerant lines. A refrigerant leak can also be responsible if your AC is short cycling, or constantly turning on and off. Contact an HVAC technician such as The AC Guy to fix the refrigerant leak and recharge your AC system to get it working correctly again.

3.Air Conditioner Constantly Running

You may not need to completely replace an AC that runs constantly. There are quite a few reasons for this, and most are repairable. Your air conditioner may always be on if you have a dirty air filter, a malfunctioning thermostat, dirty coils, ductwork that restricts airflow, or low refrigerant levels. Troubleshoot these potential reasons your AC constantly runs before buying a new unit.

Furnace Troubleshooting: Reasons for Cold Air and How to Fix Them

When the temperature drops, the last thing you want is for your furnace to start blowing cold air. While a properly functioning furnace keeps your home warm and cozy, various issues can cause it to produce cold air instead. Let’s dive into the common reasons for this problem and the steps you can take to fix it, ensuring your home stays warm and comfortable throughout the winter.

1. Thermostat Settings: A Simple Yet Common Cause

Sometimes, your furnace blowing cold air can be traced back to incorrect thermostat settings. Here’s what to check:

How to Identify and Prevent Short-Cycling

Dealing with an air conditioner that constantly turns on and off, especially during a hot Texas summer, can be incredibly frustrating. Not only does it make your home less comfortable, but it can also drive up your energy bills and wear out your AC unit faster than it should.

What is Short-Cycling?

Short-cycling happens when your AC turns on and off in quick bursts without completing a full cooling cycle. Ideally, your AC should run long enough to cool your home and then take a break until the temperature rises again. When short-cycling occurs, it can't maintain a steady temperature, which leads to frequent starts and stops.

Why Does Short-Cycling Happen?

1. Dirty Air Filters

If your air filters are clogged with dust and debris, your AC has to work harder to cool your home. This extra strain can cause the system to overheat and shut down prematurely.

Fix: Check and replace your air filters regularly, especially during the summer when your AC is working its hardest. Depending on the type of filter and the conditions in your home, it may be necessary to replace filters every 1-3 months.

Freshen Up Your Indoor Air This Fall: Key Tips for Healthier Living

As the cooler days of fall settle in, spending more time indoors becomes the norm. However, without the right adjustments, indoor air quality (IAQ) can decline, bringing in seasonal allergens and pollutants that negatively impact health and comfort. The AC Guy is here to provide you with actionable steps to improve your IAQ this fall, ensuring your home remains a safe, comfortable environment.

Indoor Air Quality Matters More in Fall

Fall marks the beginning of more time spent indoors with doors and windows often shut to keep out the cold. This can lead to a rise in indoor pollutants, allergens, and moisture. Common fall IAQ issues include:

Get Your HVAC System Ready with These Essential Tips for Spring

As temperatures rise, your HVAC system will soon work harder to keep your home cool. The transition from winter to spring is the best time to ensure your system is in peak condition before the summer heat arrives. Without proper HVAC maintenance, you could experience reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and the need for unexpected aircon repair.

By following these tips for spring, you can extend the life of your system, improve indoor air quality, and maintain a comfortable home. At The AC Guy, we provide expert HVAC services, from routine tune-ups to complete system overhauls.

Scheduling your maintenance now ensures your AC is prepared to handle the heat when you need it most.

1. Replace Your Air Filters for Maximum Efficiency

One of the simplest yet most effective tips for spring is to check and replace your air filters. Over time, dust, pollen, and pet dander accumulate, restricting airflow and forcing your HVAC system to work harder.

A clogged filter can lead to:

The Future of Home Comfort: Are Smart Thermostats Still Worth the Investment?

Smart home technology continues to evolve, and smart thermostats remain one of the most popular upgrades for homeowners. But with newer models and advanced features available in 2025, many are asking: Are smart thermostats worth it? Will they still provide energy savings, convenience, and efficiency, or are they just another tech trend?

If you're considering upgrading, it's essential to understand the cost of installing a smart thermostat, the potential savings, and whether switching to one is truly beneficial for your home. The AC Guy offers professional thermostat installation services, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.

Are Smart Thermostats Worth the Investment?

The short answer is yes.

Smart thermostats offer advanced features that simplify temperature control and reduce energy costs. Here are a few reasons why upgrading to a smart thermostat is still a great investment in 2025:

If you’ve ever noticed strange smells coming from your furnace, don't panic! Most of the time it's nothing serious, but it is something to check out. As your furnace works hard to keep you warm all winter long, it's normal for a few odd odors to develop. But some smells can indicate an issue that needs attention. Here are the most common furnace smells, what's causing them, and when you need to call in the pros.

Burning Odors: Dust Buildup or Electrical Issues

If your furnace kicks on after being idle all summer and you notice a burning smell, it’s probably just burning off dust that accumulated over the off-season. This burning dust odor should clear up within a few hours as the dust burns away. However, if the smell persists or is very strong, it could indicate an excessive buildup of debris that needs to be professionally cleaned to prevent potential fire risks.

On the other hand, if your furnace smells like burning plastic or electrical wires, that signals an issue that requires immediate attention. This could indicate overheating components like the blower motor, damaged wiring, or even a cracked heat exchanger. Any of these situations can be dangerous, so shut off your furnace right away and schedule an emergency service call.

The AC Guy’s licensed technicians have years of experience diagnosing and repairing furnace issues. We’ll inspect your system to determine the cause of the burning smell, perform necessary cleaning or repairs, and get your furnace functioning safely again. Don’t put off dealing with potentially hazardous electrical or overheating issues—your home, health, and safety should be top priorities.

Rotten Eggs and Sewer Smells: Gas Leaks and Sewer Problems

Rotten Egg Smell: Gas Leaks

If there’s a rotten egg smell coming from your furnace, that’s a bad sign. Gas companies add a distinctive smell to the otherwise odorless natural gas to help detect leaks, and it means you’ve got a serious issue that requires immediate attention.

How Often Should You Get Your AC Unit Inspected?

With warmer weather on the horizon, many homeowners are starting to think about getting their air conditioning units inspected. Even if your AC unit seems to be working fine, it's a good idea to have it inspected by a professional at least once a year. This will help ensure that your unit is operating at its most efficient level and will last longer.

Who Should Perform an AC Inspection?

AC inspections should be performed by a trained HVAC professional. There are a few things that homeowners can do themselves, such as changing the air filter and cleaning the coils, but for the most part, AC inspections should be left to the pros.

What Is Usually Included in an AC Inspection?

An AC inspection will typically include the following:

• Checking and replacing or cleaning the air filter
• Inspecting and tightening electrical connections
• Inspecting fuses and wiring
• Testing and inspecting relays and pressure controls
• Checking to ensure that the thermostat is working properly
• Checking for refrigerant leaks
• Checking ductwork for energy loss
• Cleaning the condensate drain pan
• Flushing and treating the condensate drain with anti-algae
• Flushing and treating the condensate drain with anti-algae
• Cleaning the evaporator coil
• Checking the outside unit for damage
• Inspecting the base pan and removing obstructions
• Removing any leaves, dirt, and debris from the outside unit

Benefits of Getting Your AC Unit Inspected

There are many benefits to getting your AC unit inspected on a regular basis. Some of the benefits include:

• Improved efficiency: A properly maintained AC unit will be more efficient, which can save you money on your energy bills.
• Longer lifespan: A well-maintained AC unit will last longer than one that is not properly maintained.
• Reduced risk of breakdowns: A regular inspection can help identify any potential problems with your AC unit, which can help reduce the risk of a costly breakdown.
• Increased comfort: A properly functioning AC unit will keep you cool and comfortable all summer long.

How to Find a Good AC Contractor

If you're not sure where to find a good AC contractor, ask your friends, family, or neighbors for recommendations. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau or the National Association of Home Builders.

Investing in Comfort: What to Expect When Buying a New HVAC System in 2024

You've just sweated through another hot, humid summer and your old AC unit is on its last legs. As you're researching replacements, you're shocked by the prices you see. New HVAC systems seem way more expensive than just a few years ago! Before you stress over paying a small fortune for a new system, read this guide to learn what to expect in costs for an HVAC system and how to get the best value on a new air conditioner in 2024.

With the right information, you can make an informed purchase that keeps your home cool for years to come without breaking the bank. We'll cover the factors impacting AC prices this year, provide average cost ranges, and share tips to save. Arm yourself with knowledge so you can beat the heat at an affordable cost!

Average Cost of a New HVAC System in 2024

Getting a new AC unit is a big investment, but the good news is there are options at various price points. For a mid-sized, energy-efficient model with professional installation, expect to pay between $6,500 to $9,500.

Capacity

The capacity, measured in tons, determines how much area the AC can cool. Most homes need between 2 to 5 tons. Go too small and your AC won’t keep up; too big and it won’t run efficiently. Your HVAC pro can determine the right size for your home.

Efficiency

Look for a SEER rating of at least 13 for lower energy bills. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit. While more efficient models cost more upfront, you’ll save money each month on utilities.

One minute your furnace is pumping out hot air, the next it shuts off completely. Sound familiar? Short cycling is no fun when all you want is a warm home. But don't panic yet! Learning what causes furnace to short cycle can help you get to the bottom of the issue.

This article will cover the common culprits behind heaters that won't stay on and provide some troubleshooting tips to get your system back in working order. We'll look at aspects like dirty filters, faulty thermostats, and pressure switch problems. Keep reading and you'll be back to cozy and warm in no time!

Why Does My Furnace Keep Turning Off? Understanding Short Cycling

If your furnace turns on for a few minutes but then shuts off again, you likely have a case of furnace short cycling on your hands. Short cycling occurs when your furnace kicks on and off in quick succession, preventing your home from reaching the desired temperature. There are a few possible causes for this frustrating issue.

Faulty Thermostat: Your thermostat is responsible for telling your furnace when to turn on and off. If it's malfunctioning, it may trigger your furnace to cycle incorrectly. It's a good idea to check if your thermostat settings are correct and consider replacing the thermostat if issues continue.

Air Leaks or Poor Insulation: If air is escaping from your home, your furnace has to work harder to heat the space. Sealing up cracks and adding extra insulation can help.

Is your home feeling colder than usual? If your furnace isn't blowing hot air like it used to, you may have a problem on your hands. Before you panic, check out some of the common causes and solutions for a furnace not heating properly. It may be a simple fix that doesn’t take much time or money.

The good news is that many times it's something minor that you may be able to fix without needing a degree in HVAC repair. Things like a dirty filter, ignition or pilot light issues, or thermostat problems are often easy things you can troubleshoot. Of course, sometimes it is a more serious issue involving the furnace itself or the venting system, in which case calling a pro is your best bet.

Either way, now you've got an idea of where to start. Grab your wrench and flashlight, and let's figure out why your furnace isn't blowing hot air so you can get back to being comfortable at home.

Common Causes Behind a Furnace Not Blowing Hot Air

If your furnace isn't blowing hot air, there are a few common issues that could be causing the problem. First, double-check your thermostat settings. Make sure it's set to "heat" setting and that everything is working properly. If the thermostat seems fine, it could be the battery that may require replacement.

A clogged air filter is also a frequent culprit. Replace your filter every 1-3 months to allow proper airflow. If the filter is blocked, your furnace can't heat the air and will shut off.

If your AC and furnace are on their last leg, it may be time to consider investing in a new HVAC system. Now you’re faced with a big decision: do you replace them both at once or stagger the replacements to spread out the cost? As terrible as it sounds to have to buy two new HVAC components at once, replacing your AC and furnace together actually makes a lot of sense both for your budget and your comfort.

Overview of an HVAC System

Your HVAC system includes both your air conditioner and furnace, working together to keep your home comfortable. Replacing just one part of the system may seem more affordable in the short term, but replacing both units at once, known as a dual replacement, often makes more financial sense and ensures maximum efficiency.

An HVAC system loses a bit of its efficiency for every year it operates. Over time, an older furnace and AC have to work harder to heat and cool your home, costing you more in energy bills and repairs. By replacing both units at the same time, you'll gain access to the latest technology and possibly find an AC and heater from the same company, which may lower the overall cost.

A dual replacement also means both units will have the same lifespan, so you won't have to replace one part of the system before the other is ready. This avoids potential compatibility issues from mixing older and newer equipment. It also minimizes installation fees since the work can be done all at once.

While the upfront cost of a dual replacement may be higher, the long-term benefits to your budget and home comfort are well worth it. For the best performance, lowest energy use, and fewest repairs, replacing your furnace and AC together is really the smartest option.

How Do UV Lights Work in HVAC Systems?

UV lights, or ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI), are designed to kill bacteria, viruses, mold, and other microbes in your HVAC system. UV-C bulbs emit UV light at a wavelength of 254 nanometers, which destroys the DNA of microorganisms and prevents them from reproducing.

There are two main types of UV lights for HVAC systems:

Improved Indoor Air Quality

If you want your family breathing clean, fresh air, you need to change your HVAC air filters regularly. These filters trap particles floating in the air like dust, pollen, pet dander, and air pollution, but after a while, they fill up with debris.

When that happens, the pollutants end up cycling through your home and suddenly you’re breathing in dirty, contaminated air. By swapping in a new, high-efficiency air filter every month or two, you can make sure your HVAC system is always trapping pollutants and allergens so you’re only breathing clean air.

Changing air filters regularly also helps your HVAC system run more efficiently since it’s not struggling to push air through a clogged filter. That means lower energy bills and a longer lifespan for your equipment. For such a simple task, regular air filter replacement sure provides a lot of benefits for your home environment and budget. So do yourself and your family a favor and change those air filters every month or two, especially if you have kids, pets, or allergies.

Fall is in the air and you’re probably already dreading those higher utility bills that come with cranking up the heat. But before you resign yourself to choosing between comfort and your wallet this winter, there are a few things you can do to ensure your HVAC system is running as efficiently as possible. Give your unit some attention now and you’ll be enjoying cozy fall nights at home without breaking the bank.

In just a few simple steps, you can make sure your heating and cooling system is ready for the drop in temperatures. Clear out the clutter around your air vents, change the filter, and schedule a tune-up. You’ll maximize the airflow in your home, reduce strain on the system, and catch any minor issues before they turn into big problems. Take an hour or two this weekend to show your HVAC some attention and you’ll be rewarded all season long. Fall doesn’t have to mean choosing between warmth and savings – with some easy maintenance, you can have the best of both worlds.

Change Air Filters for Proper Airflow and Quality

If you want to keep your home cozy and lower those energy bills this fall, changing your HVAC air filters is a must. Clogged, dirty air filters reduce airflow and efficiency, forcing your system to work harder and costing you more.

Do yourself a favor and swap out those old air filters for new ones. It only takes a few minutes but will make a world of difference in how well your furnace or heat pump operates. For the best results, opt for pleated, high-efficiency filters with a MERV rating of 8-12. These provide effective filtration without too much airflow restriction.

While you’re swapping out the air filters, give the vents and air ducts in your home a quick inspection. Make sure furniture, rugs, and other objects are not blocking the vents or airflow. Vacuum or dust the vents and air duct covers to remove any built-up dirt or debris. Ensuring your vents, ducts, and air filters are clean and unobstructed helps maximize your HVAC system's performance and keeps your indoor air fresh.

If you’re tired of sky-high utility bills and uncomfortable temperatures in your home, it's time to consider a Trane heat pump. You probably want an efficient system that keeps your house cozy all year without breaking the bank, and that’s what Trane offers. Trane is an industry leader, making high-quality heat pumps that can reduce your energy usage compared to a standard electric furnace. Their innovative systems provide reliable heating and cooling for homes of all sizes.

Forget about uncomfortable drafts, cold spots, and high energy bills. With a Trane heat pump, you can achieve whole-home comfort and dramatically lower your environmental impact. This winter, you'll be cozy knowing you've found an HVAC solution that works well and saves you money. A Trane heat pump is an investment in your family's comfort and your home's future.

What Are Heat Pumps?

Heat pumps are an energy-efficient heating and cooling system perfect for year-round comfort. They work by transferring heat between indoors and outdoors, providing both heating and air conditioning.

They can also generate 3-5 times more heat than the energy they consume, making them much more efficient than furnaces. The best heat pumps provide substantial energy savings, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits.

To find the perfect Trane heat pump for your needs, consider factors like your local climate, home size, and budget. A Trane Comfort Specialist can assess your home and recommend the right solution to optimize comfort and savings. The best value heat pumps strike a balance, offering high efficiency, quality, and performance at an affordable price point.

As the unsung hero of our homes, the thermostat keeps our living spaces comfortable throughout the year. Paired with our heating and cooling systems, this essential device perfectly regulates indoor temperatures. But like any household appliance, thermostats are prone to occasional hiccups.

There's a myriad of reasons why a thermostat may malfunction – from wiring complications to defective components. Yet, among the most prevalent issues homeowners face is a powerless thermostat. Fear not; we've gathered practical troubleshooting tips to help you address this problem.

Read on to discover the potential causes of your thermostat's power loss and learn how to rectify the issue promptly.

Ensuring Your Thermostat's Power Supply

First and foremost, ensure that your thermostat is receiving power. Head to your home's circuit breaker – your thermostat's power switch resides there as it derives power from your home's electrical system. Power outages might trip your circuit breaker, causing your thermostat to lose power. To address this, inspect your circuit breaker and make sure the breaker powering your thermostat is turned on. If it's off, attempt to reset it.

The Problem of Dead Batteries

Sometimes, the reason behind a powerless thermostat lies in its worn-out batteries. The controls and display of your thermostat typically rely on battery power. Over time, these batteries will inevitably lose their charge and fail. If it's been a while since you replaced these batteries, this might be the source of your problem. Replacing them with a fresh set can restore your thermostat's power quickly. You can find these batteries by removing your thermostat's cover. For specific guidance on changing batteries, consult your thermostat's user manual.

A zoned HVAC system is an innovative way to heat and cool your home more efficiently. By dividing your home into separate temperature zones, zoned HVAC gives you better control over the environment in each room. If you're tired of some rooms being too hot and others too cold, it may be time to consider zoning.

What is Zoned HVAC?

Zoned HVAC, also known as zoning, is a heating and cooling system that allows you to customize temperatures based on usage and occupancy patterns. It works by separating your home into distinct zones, each with a thermostat and climate control.

The key components of a zoned system include:

• Multiple thermostats (one for each zone)
• Motorized dampers in the ductwork to regulate airflow
• A central control panel to coordinate communication between thermostats and dampers

The thermostats enable you to set different temperature ranges depending on your needs. For example, you may want the bedrooms cooler at night while the living room remains warmer. The programmed settings communicate with the control panel, which opens and closes dampers accordingly to direct airflow only where needed.

How Does HVAC Zoning Work?

In a zoned system, your home is divided into two or more zones, with an individual thermostat controlling each one. When you adjust the thermostat, a signal is sent to the central control panel, indicating a temperature change is needed.