Maintenance &
Troubleshooting
Texas HVAC systems work twice as hard as national averages — they need maintenance twice as seriously. A system running 2,200+ hours annually in temperatures exceeding 100°F experiences accelerated wear on every component.
The Texas Maintenance Calendar
Monthly (Cooling Season: April–October)
Time required: 5 minutes
| Task | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Check/replace air filter | Dirty filters increase energy use 5-15% and strain equipment |
| Check thermostat operation | Verify system responds to setting changes |
| Listen for unusual sounds | Early detection of mechanical issues |
| Check vents for airflow | Blocked vents cause system stress |
| Clear debris around outdoor unit | Maintain minimum 2 feet clearance |
Filter note: During peak summer, filters may need replacement every 3-4 weeks, not the 30-90 days manufacturers suggest.
Quarterly
Time required: 15-20 minutes
| Task | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Clean around outdoor condenser | Remove leaves, grass, debris |
| Check condensate drain line | Clogged drains cause water damage and system shutdown |
| Inspect visible ductwork | Check for disconnections or damage |
| Test all registers | Ensure dampers are positioned correctly |
Condensate drain tip: Pour 1 cup of white vinegar down the drain line quarterly to prevent algae buildup that causes clogs.
Spring (Before Cooling Season)
Time required: 30-45 minutes
| Task | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Schedule professional tune-up | Address issues before peak demand |
| Replace filter with fresh one | Start season with clean filter |
| Clean outdoor unit | Remove winter debris accumulation |
| Test cooling operation | Verify system works before you need it |
| Check refrigerant line insulation | Degraded insulation reduces efficiency |
| Clear condensate drain | Ensure drainage path is clear |
Scheduling note: Book tune-ups by March. By May, contractors are overwhelmed with emergency calls and routine maintenance gets delayed.
DIY Troubleshooting
AC Not Cooling (But Running)
Check these before calling:
| Check | Solution |
|---|---|
| Thermostat set correctly? | Verify 'cool' mode, temperature set below current |
| Air filter clogged? | Replace if dirty |
| Vents open? | All supply and return vents should be unobstructed |
| Outdoor unit running? | Check circuit breaker if not |
| Ice on lines? | Turn off, let thaw, replace filter, call if ice returns |
| Outdoor unit dirty? | Clean debris, rinse coils gently |
When to call: If checks above don't resolve the issue, refrigerant charge, compressor, or electrical issues require professional diagnosis.
Unusual Noises
| Sound | Likely Cause | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| Squealing | Belt slip or bearing wear | Schedule service |
| Grinding | Motor bearing failure | Turn off, call immediately |
| Banging | Loose component or debris | Call soon |
| Hissing | Refrigerant leak | Call same day |
| Buzzing | Electrical issue | Call same day |
| Clicking (frequent) | Electrical relay or control issue | Call soon |
General rule: New, loud, or worsening sounds warrant professional inspection. Ignoring them risks cascading damage.
DIY vs. Professional Service
You Can Safely DIY
- Filter replacement Beginner
- Thermostat battery change Beginner
- Vent cleaning Beginner
- Outdoor unit debris clearing Beginner
- Condensate line flushing Beginner
- Outdoor coil rinsing (gentle) Beginner-Intermediate
Requires Professional
- Refrigerant work EPA certification required; pressure/safety concerns
- Electrical repairs Shock/fire risk; code compliance
- Gas furnace work Carbon monoxide/explosion risk
- Compressor/motor replacement Technical complexity; equipment cost
- Ductwork modification Proper sizing/sealing required
- System sizing/design Load calculations require training
When DIY Isn't Worth It
Even if technically possible, consider calling a pro when:
- System is under warranty (DIY may void coverage)
- Time value exceeds cost difference
- Mistake could cause greater damage
- Safety is involved (electrical, gas, heights)
Emergency AC Failure
When AC fails in extreme heat, follow these steps:
Immediate Steps
- 1 Verify it's actually off — Check thermostat, breakers, emergency shutoff
- 2 Reduce heat gain — Close blinds, avoid heat-generating activities
- 3 Manage indoor temp — Use fans, open windows in evening
- 4 Call for emergency service — Many companies offer same-day rates
- 5 Relocate if necessary — For elderly, infants, or those with medical conditions
Emergency vs. Can Wait
Total failure during 100°F+ heat
Total failure, moderate temps
Reduced cooling, still functional
Preventing Emergencies
Most emergency failures have warning signs that were ignored:
- • Unusual sounds developing over days/weeks
- • Gradually declining cooling performance
- • Increasing energy bills
- • System running constantly without achieving setpoint
- • Previous "fixed" issues recurring
Annual professional maintenance catches most developing failures before they become emergencies.
Articles in This Section
Annual AC Maintenance Checklist
Complete year-round maintenance guide
Spring AC Preparation
Pre-summer checklist and tune-up guidance
Fall Heating Preparation
Getting ready for heating season
Why Is My AC Not Cooling?
Troubleshooting poor cooling performance
AC Making Strange Noises
Sound diagnosis guide
DIY vs. Call a Pro — Decision Guide
What you can safely do yourself
Emergency AC Failure — What to Do
Immediate steps when your AC fails
Maintenance FAQ
Common questions about Texas HVAC maintenance
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