HVAC & Plumbing FAQ

AC repair costs in Texas vary depending on the problem and the parts needed. Minor repairs like replacing a capacitor or a contactor typically cost between Contact us for pricing and Contact us for pricing . Refrigerant leaks can run Contact us for pricing to Contact us for pricing depending on the severity and whether the leak requires coil replacement. Compressor replacement is one of the most expensive repairs, usually costing Contact us for pricing to Contact us for pricing .

The best way to know your exact cost is to get a free estimate from a licensed contractor. Our network provides upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Call 832-450-3898 to request a free diagnostic and estimate.

When your AC runs but blows warm air, several issues could be the cause:

• Low refrigerant: A leak in the refrigerant lines means the system cannot absorb enough heat from your home. This is the most common cause of warm air.
• Dirty air filter: A clogged filter restricts airflow so severely that the evaporator coil freezes over, stopping cooling completely.
• Faulty compressor: The compressor is the heart of the system. If it is not working, the refrigerant cannot circulate and no cooling occurs.
• Blocked condenser: If the outdoor unit is covered in dirt, leaves, or debris, it cannot release heat. The system overheats and shuts down the compressor.
• Bad capacitor: The capacitor provides the electrical boost the compressor and fan motors need to start. A weak capacitor causes motors to struggle or fail.
• Thermostat issues: A malfunctioning thermostat may not signal the cooling cycle properly. Check that it is set to "cool" and the temperature is set below room temperature.

Turn off your system and call for repair before the problem causes additional damage to the compressor.

In Texas, where air conditioners run for months at a time, you should check your filter every 30 days and replace it at least every 60 to 90 days. If you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty area, change it every 30 days.

A dirty filter is the single most common cause of AC problems. It restricts airflow, forces the system to work harder, increases energy bills, and can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. A Contact us for pricing filter change can prevent hundreds of dollars in repair costs.

AC size is measured in tons, where one ton equals 12,000 BTUs of cooling capacity per hour. A rough rule of thumb is that you need about one ton of cooling for every 400 to 600 square feet of living space. However, this is only a starting point.

Accurate sizing requires a Manual J load calculation performed by a licensed contractor. This calculation considers:

• Your home's square footage and ceiling height
• Insulation levels in walls and attic
• Window size, type, and sun exposure
• Number of occupants
• Local climate conditions
• Ductwork efficiency

An oversized system short-cycles, wastes energy, and removes humidity poorly. An undersized system runs constantly and cannot keep up. Proper sizing is critical for comfort and efficiency.

The decision to repair or replace depends on several factors:

• Age of the unit: If your AC is over 10 years old and needs a major repair, replacement is usually the better financial choice.
• Cost of repair: A common rule is the Contact us for pricing rule. Multiply the age of your unit by the repair cost. If the total exceeds Contact us for pricing , replace it. For example, a 12-year-old unit needing a Contact us for pricing repair equals Contact us for pricing , which suggests replacement.
• Energy efficiency: Older units (10+ SEER) use significantly more electricity than modern systems (16+ SEER). The energy savings from a new unit can offset the replacement cost over time.
• Frequency of repairs: If you have called for repair multiple times in the past two years, the unit is telling you it is nearing the end of its life.
• Comfort issues: If your home never feels comfortable despite the AC running constantly, the system may be the wrong size or simply worn out.

A licensed contractor can inspect your system and give you an honest recommendation based on its condition and your budget.

Your furnace should be professionally inspected and serviced once per year, ideally in the fall before the heating season begins. Annual maintenance includes cleaning the burners, checking the heat exchanger for cracks, testing safety controls, inspecting the venting system, and verifying gas pressure.

A well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, breaks down less often, and lasts years longer. It also operates more safely. A cracked heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide into your home, which is why the annual inspection is so important.

A furnace burns fuel (natural gas, propane, or oil) to create heat. A heat pump does not create heat. It moves heat from the outside air into your home using electricity and refrigerant. In summer, a heat pump reverses the process and works exactly like an air conditioner.

In the Texas climate, heat pumps are an excellent choice because winters are relatively mild. A heat pump can efficiently heat your home when outside temperatures are above 30 to 40 degrees. When temperatures drop below that, most heat pumps use backup electric heat strips, which are less efficient but handle the occasional cold snap.

Heat pumps offer the advantage of providing both heating and cooling in one system, which reduces maintenance costs and simplifies your HVAC setup.

A slight burning smell when you first turn on your furnace after months of sitting idle is usually normal. Dust accumulates on the heat exchanger and burners during the off-season. When the furnace fires up, that dust burns off and creates a temporary burning odor. This smell should go away within a few minutes.

However, if the smell persists, gets stronger, or smells like burning plastic, electrical components, or natural gas, turn off the furnace immediately and call for service. Persistent burning odors can indicate electrical problems, overheating motors, or gas leaks.

For most Texas homeowners, a maintenance plan pays for itself. Here is why:

• Prevented breakdowns: A tune-up catches small problems before they cause a breakdown. One avoided emergency repair call often covers the entire annual plan cost.
• Energy savings: A maintained system uses 15% to 25% less energy. On a Contact us for pricing monthly summer electric bill, that is Contact us for pricing to Contact us for pricing saved every month.
• Extended equipment life: A well-maintained system lasts 15 to 20 years. A neglected one may fail in 10 years. The extra years of service are worth thousands of dollars.
• Repair discounts: Most plans include 15% to 20% off repairs, which adds up quickly.
• Priority service: Plan members get scheduled first during peak season when non-members wait days for an appointment.

At Contact us for pricing to Contact us for pricing per month, a maintenance plan is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home comfort system.

While professional maintenance is essential, there are several things you can do yourself to keep your system running well:

• Change your air filter every 30 to 90 days
• Keep the outdoor condenser unit clear of debris, leaves, and grass clippings
• Trim bushes and plants back at least 2 feet from the outdoor unit
• Clean dust from supply and return vent covers
• Make sure furniture and curtains do not block vents
• Check your thermostat settings seasonally
• Listen for unusual noises and call for service if you hear them
• Check for water leaks around the indoor unit

Leave anything involving refrigerant, electrical work, gas lines, or internal components to a licensed professional. DIY repairs on these systems are dangerous and can void your warranty.

Hidden leaks can cause serious damage before you ever see water. Watch for these warning signs:

• Your water bill jumps suddenly even though your usage has not changed
• You hear running water when no taps are open
• Your water meter dial moves when all water is turned off
• Damp or discolored spots appear on walls, ceilings, or floors
• You notice a musty smell or see mold growth
• Your water pressure drops without explanation
• Your foundation shows cracks or the soil around your home is unusually wet

If you suspect a hidden leak, call a plumber for professional leak detection. Electronic listening devices and video cameras can locate the exact source without tearing up your walls or yard.

Traditional tank water heaters typically last 8 to 12 years. Tankless water heaters can last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Several factors affect lifespan:

• Water quality: Hard water with high mineral content causes sediment buildup that damages the tank and heating elements.
• Maintenance: Annual flushing removes sediment and extends the life of the unit. Replacing the anode rod every 3 to 5 years prevents tank corrosion.
• Usage: Heavy usage wears out components faster.
• Installation quality: Proper sizing and installation prevent stress on the system.

If your water heater is approaching the 10-year mark and you notice rusty water, rumbling noises, or water pooling around the base, start planning for replacement. A failing water heater can burst and flood your home.

A running toilet wastes hundreds of gallons of water per month and can add significantly to your water bill. The most common causes are:

• Flapper valve: The rubber flapper at the bottom of the tank may be worn, warped, or not sealing properly. This is the most common cause and the easiest fix. A new flapper costs a few dollars and takes minutes to install.
• Fill valve: If the fill valve does not shut off when the tank is full, water continues to flow. The valve may need adjustment or replacement.
• Chain length: If the chain connecting the handle to the flapper is too short, it holds the flapper slightly open. If it is too long, it can get caught under the flapper.
• Overflow tube: If the water level is set too high, water flows into the overflow tube continuously. Adjust the float to lower the water level.

If you replace the flapper and the toilet still runs, call a plumber. The problem may be a cracked flush valve or another internal issue.

We strongly recommend against using chemical drain cleaners. While they may seem like a quick fix, they cause serious problems:

• Pipe damage: The harsh chemicals generate heat that can soften PVC pipes and corrode metal pipes, leading to leaks.
• Incomplete clearing: Chemicals often create a small opening in the clog but leave most of the blockage in place. The drain will clog again soon.
• Safety hazards: The chemicals are dangerous to handle, harmful to breathe, and can splash back into your face or eyes.
• Environmental damage: Chemicals end up in the water supply and harm septic systems.
• Professional hazard: If you later call a plumber, the chemicals in the drain create a safety hazard for the technician using mechanical tools.

For minor clogs, try a plunger or a drain snake. For persistent blockages, call a professional plumber who uses mechanical or hydro jetting methods that are safe for your pipes and effective at completely clearing the line.

For emergency situations like a broken AC during a heatwave or a burst pipe, many contractors in our network can arrive within 1 to 2 hours. For non-urgent repairs and maintenance, most contractors offer same-day or next-day appointments.

When you call 832-450-3898 or submit our online form, we immediately match you with an available contractor in your area. The contractor contacts you directly within minutes to confirm the appointment and give you an estimated arrival time.

Yes. Every contractor in our Texas network is fully licensed by the appropriate Texas state board. HVAC contractors hold TDLR (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation) licenses. Plumbers hold licenses from the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.

All contractors also carry general liability insurance and workers compensation coverage. This protects you from liability if a technician is injured on your property or if accidental damage occurs during the work. We verify licenses and insurance before any contractor joins our network.

Yes. Many contractors in our network offer flexible financing options for homeowners who need a new AC system, water heater, or major repair but prefer to spread the cost over time. Options include:

• 0% interest financing for qualified buyers
• Low monthly payment plans with terms from 12 to 120 months
• Same-as-cash options with no interest if paid within a promotional period
• Manufacturer rebates and seasonal promotions

Financing approval is usually quick and can often be completed during the service visit. Ask your contractor about current financing options when they provide your estimate.

We serve the entire state of Texas. Our network includes contractors in every major metropolitan area and surrounding suburbs, including:

• Houston, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Katy, Pearland, Baytown
• Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, Frisco, McKinney
• Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville
• San Antonio, New Braunfels, Schertz, Seguin, Boerne
• El Paso, Corpus Christi, Lubbock, Amarillo, Waco, Midland, Odessa

If you live in a smaller town or rural area, we can still connect you with a contractor who serves your region. Call 832-450-3898 and we will find the nearest qualified professional.