Understanding Why Texas Demands More From AC Systems

Texas Climate &
HVAC Data

Q: Why does my AC work harder in Texas than other states?

Texas has 2.3× the cooling demand of the national average, measured in Cooling Degree Days (CDD). DFW systems run approximately 2,200 hours annually compared to 1,000-1,400 hours nationally. This extended operation accelerates wear on compressors, motors, and electrical components.

Q: How long should an AC last in Texas?

Texas AC systems typically last 10-15 years compared to the national average of 15-20 years—a 25-33% reduction. A 10-year-old DFW system has accumulated wear equivalent to a 13-15-year-old system in moderate climates.

Q: Does humidity affect my AC performance?

Yes, significantly. Air conditioners remove both heat and moisture. In humid conditions (common in spring/fall in DFW), more energy goes to dehumidification. Oversized systems short-cycle and don't run long enough to remove adequate moisture, leaving homes feeling clammy even at the setpoint temperature.

Texas air conditioners don't just run more — they run under conditions that accelerate every form of equipment wear. Understanding the climate data helps explain why Texas HVAC costs more to operate, requires more frequent maintenance, and fails sooner than national averages.

Licensed & Insured

4.9★ Rating

Same-Day Service

24/7 Emergency

Call Now Call (940) 390-5676 Back to Guide

Texas HVAC climate data shows that Texas air conditioning systems face the most demanding conditions in the continental United States. Dallas-Fort Worth averages 2,756 cooling degree days annually—2.3 times the national average. Systems run 2,200+ hours per year compared to 1,000-1,400 hours nationally, resulting in 25-33% shorter equipment lifespans. In Texas, texas hvac climate data typically costs Equipment replacement: $5,000-$20,000 , with Same-day service available service available.

2,756 cooling degree days in DFW (2.3× national average)
7-month cooling season (April-October)
2,200+ AC runtime hours annually
17-20 days above 100°F yearly average
25-33% shorter AC lifespan than national average

Written by Gary Musaraj

NATE Certified • EPA Section 608 Universal

Published: January 14, 2024 Updated: January 13, 2026

Cooling Degree Days by Texas Metro

Cooling degree days (CDD) measure how much cooling a region requires. Higher numbers mean more AC runtime. The national average is 1,215 CDD.

Source: NOAA Climate Normals 2020, degree days calculated with 65°F base temperature
Metro Area	Annual CDD	vs. National Avg
Houston	2,889	2.4× higher
Dallas-Fort Worth	2,756	2.3× higher
San Antonio	2,847	2.3× higher
Austin	2,678	2.2× higher
El Paso	2,156	1.8× higher

What This Means for Your Equipment

Runtime Hours

A DFW air conditioner runs approximately 2,200 hours annually. National average: 1,000-1,400 hours. More runtime means faster compressor wear.

Maximum Load

When temps exceed 95°F, systems run at maximum capacity. DFW averages 58 days above 95°F annually; moderate climates see 5-15 such days.

No Recovery

In extreme heat, systems run continuously without cycling breaks. This sustained operation accelerates bearing wear and electrical degradation.

Humidity: The Hidden Factor

Texas isn't uniformly dry or humid — and humidity dramatically affects HVAC performance and comfort.

Source: National Weather Service, average summer afternoon relative humidity
Region	Summer RH	Primary Challenge
Houston	75-85%	Constant dehumidification demand
DFW	55-70%	Variable; worst in spring/fall
Austin	50-65%	Moderate; evening humidity rise
San Antonio	55-70%	Similar to DFW pattern
El Paso	25-40%	Minimal; evaporative cooling viable

How Humidity Affects Cooling

Latent load increases: More energy goes to moisture removal, less to temperature reduction
Comfort suffers: 78°F at 70% humidity feels warmer than 78°F at 50% humidity
Oversized systems short-cycle: Equipment too large cools quickly but doesn't remove adequate moisture

Learn why proper HVAC sizing matters for humidity control and see tips for reducing your summer electric bills.

Equipment Lifespan in Texas

National ASHRAE data suggests 15-20 year AC lifespan. Texas reality is significantly shorter.

Source: ASHRAE Equipment Life Expectancy data adjusted for Texas climate factors
Equipment	National Average	Texas Reality	Reduction
Central AC	15-20 years	10-15 years	25-33% shorter
Heat Pump	15 years	10-12 years	20-33% shorter
Furnace	20-25 years	18-22 years	10-15% shorter
Ductwork	25-30 years	20-25 years	15-20% shorter

Articles in This Section

North Texas HVAC Statistics

Comprehensive data on DFW climate and HVAC demand

Collin County Growth & HVAC

How rapid population growth affects HVAC demand

Climate & HVAC FAQ

Common questions about Texas climate and AC performance

Why does my AC work harder in Texas than other states?

How long should an AC last in Texas?

Does humidity affect my AC performance?

Still Have Questions?

Our HVAC experts are here to help with personalized answers for your specific needs.

Call Now Call (940) 390-5676 or send us a message

Need HVAC Service in North Texas?

Professional maintenance and repair for systems working in Texas's demanding climate.

Call (940) 390-5676 Request Estimate

Related Services & Areas

Explore our comprehensive HVAC services across North Texas

Texas HVAC Guide Weather-Specific HVAC Strategies AC Repair Frisco HVAC Services Summer Cooling Optimization 24/7 Emergency AC Repair Plano HVAC Services HVAC Equipment Guide

Need immediate HVAC assistance?

24/7 Emergency Service Available

(940) 390-5676 Schedule Service

Texas Climate &HVAC Data