Expert Air Conditioning Services in Florence, TX

For optimal performance and longevity, we recommend having your air conditioning system professionally serviced at least once a year, ideally in the spring before the hot season begins. However, in Florence's hot climate where AC systems work harder year-round, twice-yearly maintenance (spring and fall) can be beneficial, especially for older systems. Regular maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, maintains energy efficiency, and extends the life of your equipment.

In the Texas climate, where air conditioners work harder and longer than in many other regions, you can expect a well-maintained AC system to last approximately 10-15 years. However, several factors affect this lifespan, including:

• Quality of the original installation
• Regular professional maintenance
• How often the system runs
• The system's SEER rating and efficiency
• Whether repairs are addressed promptly

With proper care and maintenance, you can maximize your system's operational life and efficiency throughout its service years.

Determining the correct size for your AC unit requires a professional assessment, as it depends on multiple factors beyond just square footage. While a general rule of thumb is 20 BTUs per square foot of living space, a proper sizing calculation should consider:

• Total square footage of your home
• Ceiling height and home layout
• Number and size of windows, and their orientation
• Insulation quality and R-value
• Local climate conditions (especially relevant in Florence, TX)
• Number of occupants
• Heat-generating appliances

We recommend scheduling a professional load calculation (also called a Manual J calculation) to determine the proper size. Installing an incorrectly sized unit can lead to higher energy bills, uncomfortable humidity levels, and premature system failure.

Unusual noises from your AC system often indicate specific problems that should be addressed promptly:

• Squealing/Screeching: Often indicates a belt problem or motor bearing issues
• Grinding: Could be a serious motor problem or damaged bearings
• Rattling/Clanking: Likely loose parts or motor problems
• Clicking: May be electrical issues or a failing capacitor
• Buzzing: Potentially loose parts, debris, or electrical problems
• Hissing: Often signals refrigerant leaks

If you notice any unusual sounds, it's best to contact a professional right away. Addressing these issues early can prevent more expensive repairs later.

There are several effective ways to lower your cooling costs in Florence's hot climate:

• Schedule regular professional maintenance to keep your system running efficiently
• Change air filters monthly during peak usage seasons
• Install a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize temperature settings
• Set your thermostat to 78°F when home and higher when away
• Use ceiling fans to create a wind-chill effect
• Seal leaks around windows, doors, and ducts
• Add insulation to your attic and walls if needed
• Keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day
• Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency AC system if yours is over 10 years old

Our technicians can perform an energy audit of your home and provide specific recommendations for your situation.

Filter replacement frequency depends on several factors:

• Basic 1-inch filters: Replace every 30-60 days
• Pleated filters: Replace every 3-6 months
• High-efficiency filters: Replace every 6-12 months

However, you should check filters monthly and replace them more frequently if you have:

• Pets in the home
• Family members with allergies or respiratory conditions
• Construction or high dust in your area
• System running constantly during extreme weather

Regular filter changes improve air quality, system efficiency, and equipment lifespan.

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures an air conditioner's cooling efficiency—higher numbers indicate greater efficiency. As of 2023, new installations in the South and Southwest regions (including Texas) must have a minimum SEER rating of 15.

For Florence homeowners, we typically recommend:

• SEER 15-16: Good balance of efficiency and affordability
• SEER 17-18: Better efficiency with moderate premium
• SEER 19+: Maximum efficiency, highest upfront cost but lowest operating costs

Given Florence's hot climate and long cooling season, investing in a higher SEER rating often pays off through energy savings over time. We can help calculate the potential return on investment for different efficiency options based on your specific home and usage patterns.