As a homeowner in Dallas, understanding your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is essential for maintaining comfort and efficiency year-round. Here’s what you need to know:
Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures your system operates efficiently, prolongs its lifespan, and prevents unexpected breakdowns. By regular maintenance we recommend having your AC tuned up before you turn it on for the spring/summer.
Depending on how old it is, to also get a quick tune up in Fall/Winter after it has been running all summer long. Your furnace should be checked annually. At Chapman Air & Heat we emphasize proactive maintenance to save on long-term costs.
Seasonal HVAC Tips
- Winter Preparation: Seal drafts around windows and doors to prevent heat loss. Regularly replace air filters to maintain airflow and consider installing a programmable thermostat to optimize heating schedules.
- Summer Readiness: Ensure your air conditioner is in top shape by scheduling a tune-up before the peak season. Regular maintenance can prevent issues like frozen evaporator coils and low refrigerant levels.
To maximize energy savings in Dallas while maintaining comfort, here are the recommended thermostat settings for summer and winter:
Summer Settings
When You’re Home: Set your thermostat to 78°F. This balances comfort and energy efficiency.
When You’re Away: Raise the temperature to 85°F or higher. This reduces cooling costs without letting your home get excessively hot.
Winter Settings
When You’re Home: Set your thermostat to 68°F. This is an energy-efficient setting while still keeping your home warm.
When You’re Away or Sleeping: Lower the thermostat to 60–65°F. Every degree you lower can save up to 1% on heating costs over 8 hours.
Bonus Tips for Energy Savings
Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat: Set schedules to automatically adjust temperatures when you’re home, away, or sleeping.
Utilize Fans in Summer: Ceiling fans can make a room feel up to 4°F cooler without adjusting the thermostat.
Seal Air Leaks: Ensure windows and doors are sealed to prevent drafts, helping your system maintain consistent temperatures efficiently.
By following these guidelines, you can reduce energy costs while staying comfortable throughout the year in Dallas.
Energy Efficiency
Upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems can significantly reduce utility bills. Look for units with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings for air conditioners and high AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) percentages for furnaces.
Choosing the Right System
Selecting an HVAC system that suits your home’s size and your specific needs is crucial. Factors to consider include energy efficiency, humidity control, and reliability.
An important factor to understand and consider is that older technology only allowed for one or two speeds that a furnace would operate at. The furnace would be on until a set temperature was reached, then turn off until the temperature dropped a few degrees, then turn on and run, often at the higher speed to “catch up”. It uses more energy to try to raise the temperature back up, than is required to maintain it, and you have inconsistent temperatures in the home. Newer technology permits variable speed motors that can adjust constantly to maintain a steady temperature while using the least amount of energy.
Features of high efficiency models include:
- Variable speed blowers that quietly deliver the warm air more slowly when less heat is needed.
- Variable heat output can increase the comfort and efficiency of the furnace by automatically varying the amount of heat the furnace produces to deliver heat more consistently.needed.
- Dual heat exchangers to increase the energy efficiency of the furnace. Combustion exhaust leaving the primary heat exchanger travels into the secondary heat exchanger where more heat is released.
Filter Replacement
The frequency with which you should replace your air filters depends on several factors, including the type of filter, the number of occupants in the home, and whether you have pets or allergies. Here’s a general guide:
- Basic Filters (1–2-inch thick): Replace every 30–60 days.
- Pleated Filters (Higher Efficiency): Replace every 60–90 days.
- High-Efficiency Filters (HEPA or similar): Replace every 4–6 months, depending on usage and conditions.
Special Considerations:
- Homes with Pets: If you have one or more pets, aim to replace filters every 30–45 days to handle increased dander and fur.
- Allergy or Asthma Sufferers: Replace filters every 20–30 days for optimal air quality.
- Low Usage Homes: In vacation homes or areas where the system isn’t used as much, filters may last up to 6–12 months.
Tip: Check your filter monthly and replace it if it looks dirty or clogged, even if it’s ahead of schedule. Clean filters improve your system’s efficiency and maintain better indoor air quality.
Indoor Air Quality
Maintaining good indoor air quality is vital for health. Regularly inspect and replace air filters, consider air purification systems, and ensure proper ventilation to reduce allergens and pollutants.
Signs It’s Time for a Replacement
If your HVAC system is over 15 years old, frequently needs repairs, or isn’t maintaining comfortable temperatures, it might be time for a replacement. Upgrading can improve efficiency and comfort.
By staying informed and proactive about your HVAC system, you can ensure a comfortable and energy-efficient home in Dallas.
Here are three key signs that you may need to replace your AC unit or furnace:
- Frequent Repairs
If your system breaks down often or requires costly repairs, replacing it might be more cost-effective than continuously fixing an aging unit.
A general rule: If a repair costs 50% or more of the price of a new system, it’s time to consider replacement.
- Inefficiency and Rising Energy Bills
Older systems lose efficiency over time, causing your energy bills to spike even with regular maintenance.
Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient unit can significantly reduce operating costs.
- Age of the Unit
Air Conditioners: Most AC units last 10–15 years with proper care.
Furnaces: Furnaces typically last 15–20 years.
If your system is nearing or past these milestones, it’s likely time for an upgrade.
Bonus Sign: If your home is consistently uncomfortable (hot spots in summer or cold spots in winter) despite regular servicing, your system may no longer be able to handle your needs.
Upgrading to a new system ensures better comfort, efficiency, and long-term savings.
For personalized advice and professional services, consider reaching out to Chapman Air & Heat.
Call Chapman Air & Heat Today!
Don’t wait until your HVAC system gives you trouble—ensure year-round comfort and efficiency in your Dallas home. Whether you need routine maintenance, expert repairs, or a new installation, Chapman Air & Heat has the experience and expertise to get the job done right.
📞 Call now at 214-340-4999 or visit chapmanair.com to schedule your service!
Click here to read about 5 Signs You Should Replace Your Furnace Now!
Professional HVAC Services in Dallas
Chapman Air & Heat offers comprehensive services, including:
- Repair and Maintenance: Available 24/7 for all central A/C and heating units.
Chapman Air - New Installations: Providing system installations for both residential and commercial settings. Chapman Air
- Quality Products: Supplying quality products, professionally installed by trained staff.
Chapman Air
