Houston is notorious for long, humid summers and short but surprising cold snaps. Days above 95°F with sticky humidity are common, and winter cold fronts can push nighttime temps into the 30s. In this climate, a reliable, efficient HVAC system isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for comfort, health, and energy savings.
A properly sized and well‑maintained system will:
Keep indoor humidity in the 40–55% range (less mold, more comfort)
Cut energy use by 10–30% vs. neglected systems
Improve indoor air quality by filtering dust, pollen, and pollutants
Extend the life of your equipment and reduce emergency breakdowns
If your unit is 10–15 years old, needs frequent repair, or uses R‑22 refrigerant, replacement may be smarter than another fix. Installers will:
Perform a Manual J load calculation (not just “like for like” tonnage)
Recommend SEER2‑rated equipment matched to your home’s ductwork
Pull permits and pass local inspections
Register warranties and explain maintenance needs
Popular system types in Houston
Central split AC with gas furnace (very common)
Heat pumps (high‑efficiency, now great even in mild winters)
Ductless mini‑splits (perfect for additions/garages or spot cooling)
Packaged units (some homes/light commercial)
Common Houston repairs include:
Refrigerant leaks and low charge
Failed capacitors/contactors (frequent in heat)
Clogged condensate drains (humidity + algae)
Frozen coils from airflow or refrigerant issues
Blower motor failures and short cycling
A reputable tech diagnoses first (static pressure, subcool/superheat, electrical checks) and provides a clear estimate before work begins.
Biannual tune‑ups—spring for cooling, fall for heating—include:
Cleaning condenser coils and inspecting evaporator coil
Checking static pressure and duct leakage
Testing capacitors, contactors, and safeties
Verifying refrigerant levels and temperature split
Flushing the condensate line
Replacing/cleaning filters and checking thermostat calibration
Preventive care lowers bills, reduces breakdowns, and is often required to keep warranties valid.
MERV 11–13 filters (balanced with airflow needs)
UV or LED coil sanitizers to reduce biofilm on wet coils
Whole‑home media filters or electronic air cleaners
Dehumidifiers to control Houston’s heavy moisture
Duct sealing/cleaning where leakage or buildup is confirmed
Actual prices vary by brand, system size, home layout, and duct condition. These are ballpark ranges to help you budget.
| Service | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| AC replacement (3–4 ton, SEER2 15–17) | $6,500 – $10,500 |
| Heat pump system (variable speed) | $8,000 – $13,500 |
| Furnace replacement (80–96% AFUE) | $3,200 – $7,200 |
| Ductless mini‑split (single zone) | $3,200 – $6,000 |
| Common AC repairs | $175 – $650 |
| Major repairs (compressor, coil) | $1,100 – $2,800 |
| Seasonal tune‑up (per visit) | $89 – $189 |
| Annual maintenance plan | $160 – $380 |
Pro tip: Ask about utility rebates and manufacturer promos (spring/fall). Pairing a higher‑efficiency unit with smart controls often qualifies.
Texas license & insurance. Verify active licensing; ask for proof of liability and worker’s comp.
NATE‑certified technicians. Certification signals training on diagnostics and quality installs.
Written, line‑item estimates. No vague numbers. You should see labor, parts, and options.
Load calculation (Manual J). If they size your system by “rule of thumb,” keep shopping.
Real reviews in Houston. Check Google, BBB, and Nextdoor for local patterns.
Warranties & guarantees. Parts, labor, and workmanship should be clear—in writing.
24/7 service. Critical in Houston summers when downtime is painful (and risky for pets/elderly).
Red flags: cash‑only pricing, pressure tactics (“today only”), refusal to show credentials, or quoting a replacement without offering repair options.
Coil cleaning (condenser + check evaporator)
Confirm correct refrigerant charge and superheat/subcool
Inspect insulation on refrigerant lines
Test thermostat and Wi‑Fi connectivity
Change to a fresh MERV 11–13 filter
Clear debris around outdoor unit (keep 18–24″ free space)
Flush condensate line monthly with vinegar tablets
Check supply/return temperatures (aim for 16–22°F split)
Watch bills: sudden spikes signal airflow or charge issues
Furnace/heat pump safety check, heat exchanger inspection
Verify gas pressure and CO monitors
Program energy‑saving schedules for cooler nights
Replace filter as needed (every 30–90 days)
Test heat strips/aux heat (for heat pumps)
Inspect attic insulation and duct leakage
Filter rule of thumb:
1″ filters: every 30–60 days
4–5″ media filters: every 4–6 months (check monthly at first)
AC blowing warm air: Check thermostat mode, filter, and outdoor unit fan. If still warm, call—could be a capacitor, low charge, or compressor issue.
Unit short cycling: Dirty filter, thermostat placement, or oversized system. Tech should measure static pressure and verify sizing.
Frozen indoor coil: Turn system OFF, run FAN only to thaw, replace filter, and schedule service—likely airflow or charge related.
High humidity indoors: Ensure continuous fan is OFF (use “Auto”), verify cooling stage is long enough, and consider a dehumidifier or thermostat with dehumidify to setpoint.
Water near indoor unit: Likely a clogged drain line—turn off system to prevent secondary damage and call for a line flush and float switch check.
Smart controls (Nest, ecobee, Honeywell T10) can reduce cooling costs by 8–12% when used correctly. Look for:
Geofencing (auto‑adjust when you leave)
Humidity control (some thermostats manage dehumidify cycles)
Energy reports to spot inefficiencies
Utility demand‑response program compatibility (possible bill credits)
In many Houston attics, ducts leak 15–25% of conditioned air. Ask your technician to:
Measure static pressure and run a duct leakage test
Seal connections with mastic, not tape
Add/repair insulation (R‑8 recommended in attics)
Balance airflow to far rooms and bonus spaces
A tight, balanced duct system can feel like a new AC without replacing equipment.
Consider replacement when:
Your unit is 12–15 years old and needs a major repair
Repairs would cost >50% of the price of a new system
You struggle with high humidity, noise, or uneven cooling
Your energy bills keep rising despite maintenance
A modern variable‑speed system plus sealed ducts often delivers quieter comfort, better humidity control, and lower bills.
How often should I service my HVAC in Houston?
Twice a year—spring (cooling tune‑up) and fall (heating safety check).
What’s the best thermostat setting for summer?
Start with 76–78°F, lower slightly if humidity is controlled. Use “Auto” fan mode.
Do I need duct cleaning?
Only if there’s confirmed microbial growth, heavy debris, or air distribution issues. Prioritize sealing leaks and using better filtration first.
Why does my AC run all day?
High humidity + heat. Ensure correct sizing, healthy ductwork, clean coils, and proper charge. In extreme heat waves, longer run times are normal.
Can I add a mini‑split to a hot room or garage?
Yes—ductless systems are excellent for add‑ons, studios, or home offices where ducts don’t reach or loads are unique.
Is emergency service available 24/7 in Houston?
Many reputable companies offer it. Confirm response times and after‑hours rates upfront.
Always work with licensed, insured Texas contractors.
For gas systems, verify CO detectors are installed and functioning.
Keep 18–24″ clearance around outdoor units and do not cover them while running.
If you suspect refrigerant issues, avoid DIY—handling requires certification.
We’re an independent HVAC information and referral service. We help homeowners in Houston connect with licensed, local technicians for installation, maintenance, and repairs. We do not perform HVAC work directly. If a connection results in service, we may receive a referral fee at no additional cost to you. Our goal is to help you find reliable, policy‑compliant options fast.
Spring tune‑up booked
MERV 11–13 filter stocked
Condensate drain tablets added
Outdoor unit cleared 24″ all around
Thermostat schedules set (and geofencing on)
CO detectors tested (for gas heat)
Attic ducts inspected and sealed
Maintenance plan active (2 visits/year)
We’ll connect you with vetted, licensed pros for installation, repairs, or same‑day maintenance.
Call Now: +1 (844) 833‑0703
Or Visit our Contact page.
Learn more about how to improve your home’s air quality from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Guide.
HVAC Booking Now helps homeowners connect quickly with trusted, independent HVAC service providers for repairs, maintenance, and emergencies.
Open 24/7 – Call Anytime
Company Information: PREZWAY (SMC-PRIVATE) LIMITED
Registered Address: Street No. 2, Mujahid Abad, Office No. 17, Khanewal, 58150, Pakistan
Email: info@hvacbookingnow.com
© 2025 HVAC Booking Now. All Rights Reserved.
