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Upgrade Your HVAC for Summer in Sugar Land

February 19, 2025

Even though it’s still winter, summer will be here before you know it! If your HVAC system struggled to keep you cool last year, now is the perfect time to upgrade. Winter is an off-season for contractors, meaning quicker installations and great deals on high-efficiency systems that save you money and energy. Call 281.342.2512 Why Upgrade? Lower Energy Bills According to ENERGY STAR, the average household spends around $2,000 annually on energy bills, with cooling and heating accounting for 42% of that cost. Upgrading to a high-efficiency cooling system—such as a smart air conditioner, air source heat pump, or ductless mini-split—can save you up to 60% on cooling (and heating) costs. Consistent Comfort Older systems often cause hot and cold spots throughout your home. A new system solves this with: Zoning: Control temperatures in different areas of your home for personalized comfort. Programmable Thermostats: Adjust temperatures based on your schedule for maximum efficiency. Variable Speed Motors: Unlike traditional systems, these adjust airflow to maintain even temperatures and reduce energy waste. Quieter Operation Tired of your HVAC sounding like a jet engine? New high-efficiency systems include sound insulation, variable-speed motors, and optional sound blankets for outdoor units—giving you a quieter,...

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Saving Money This Winter in Sugar Land

January 6, 2025

Winter is here, and heating bills can be a worry for many homeowners. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to reduce your energy costs this season—some you can do yourself and others that may require a professional touch, but will ultimately save you money in the long run. Call 281.342.2512 Money-Saving Tips for Winter Let the Sunshine In During the day, open your curtains to allow the sun’s natural warmth to heat your home. Not only does this provide free heat, but it also reduces your reliance on artificial lighting, saving even more money. You’ve probably noticed how your pets love basking in the sun—now you can benefit from it, too! Close Your Curtains at Night To retain the heat you’ve gained throughout the day, close your curtains at night. Consider investing in insulated curtains, which are a cost-effective way to keep the warmth in and the cold out. Check for Air Leaks Air leaks are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to heat loss. Check your doors and windows for any gaps, and replace weatherstripping or seal cracks with caulk. Don’t forget electrical sockets and wall switches—insulation kits for these areas can make a noticeable difference. Also, inspect your attic for gaps in insulation and add more as needed. An insulated attic pull-down cover is a small investment that helps prevent cold air from entering your home, ultimately lowering heating costs. Lower Your Thermostat Reducing your thermostat by just a few degrees can lead to significant savings. The lower you set it, the less energy you use to heat your home. Add an Extra Blanket Bundling up with extra blankets can allow you to lower your thermostat by 10-15 degrees, saving up to 10% on your heating costs. This simple change keeps everyone cozy while reducing energy usage. Close Your Fireplace When Not in Use Remember to close the flue damper when you’re not using your fireplace. An open flue allows warm air to escape, pulling it up and...

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Understanding SEER Ratings for Texas Homeowners

November 22, 2024

What is SEER, and Why Should You Care? In HVAC lingo, SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. Simply put, a SEER rating tells you how energy-efficient your AC unit is over a typical cooling season. Think of it like the miles per gallon (mpg) for your car—higher SEER means better energy efficiency. For Texas homeowners, this can directly translate to lower utility bills and a cooler, more comfortable home during those blazing hot summers! Call 281.342.2512 Why Does SEER Matter? Older AC units, typically those over 10-15 years old, often have lower SEER ratings (usually around 8-10), which means they use more energy to keep your home cool. If you have an older unit, upgrading to one with a higher SEER rating could save you up to 40% on energy costs annually! Plus, new U.S. energy standards require ACs to have at least a 13 SEER, with most units today ranging between 13 and 21 SEER. How Can I Find My AC’s SEER Rating? You can check your AC unit’s SEER rating in a few ways: Look for the yellow EnergyGuide sticker on your outdoor unit. Check for a label or paperwork on the indoor air handler. Check...

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The Benefits of a Fall HVAC Tune-Up

September 14, 2024

As fall approaches, it’s time for your annual HVAC tune-up. Just like vehicles and other equipment, your HVAC system needs regular maintenance to ensure smooth, efficient operation and a comfortable home. Call 281.342.2512 Why a Fall HVAC Tune-Up Is Necessary As the temperatures begin to drop, ensuring your HVAC system is ready for the colder months is crucial for both comfort and efficiency. A fall HVAC tune-up is a preventive measure that keeps your system running smoothly throughout the heating season, avoiding unexpected breakdowns and saving you money in the long run. Here’s why it’s important: Your Heater Has Been Idle All Summer Just like any mechanical system that sits unused for long periods, your heating system requires a tune-up after months of inactivity. Over the summer, dust, debris, and general wear and tear can build up in your furnace or heat pump, affecting its efficiency and performance. A fall HVAC maintenance ensures your heater is properly cleaned, lubricated, and ready to operate at peak performance when the first cold snap hits. Think of it like your car – if you let it sit idle for months, it wouldn’t run as efficiently without a bit of maintenance first. The...

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How to Transition Your HVAC System from Summer to Fall

September 7, 2024

As the blazing heat of summer fades into the cooler, crisper air of fall in Sugar Land, Texas, it’s the perfect time to prepare your HVAC system for the seasonal shift. Proper maintenance now can ensure your home stays comfortable and energy-efficient as temperatures drop. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to transition your HVAC system from summer to fall. Call 281.342.2512 Change Your Air Filters One of the simplest yet most important tasks is changing your air filters. Over the summer, your HVAC system worked hard to keep your home cool, and air filters can become clogged with dust, pollen, and other particles. A clean filter not only improves indoor air quality but also helps your system run more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and extending the life of your HVAC system. Tip: Consider using high-efficiency filters to capture more allergens, especially during the fall when ragweed and mold can be prevalent. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up Fall is the ideal time to schedule a professional HVAC tune-up. A qualified technician will inspect your system, clean essential components, and identify any potential issues before they become costly repairs. This preventative maintenance ensures your system is ready to switch from...

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After the Storm: HVAC Care and Recovery Tips for Sugar Land Residents

July 18, 2024

In the aftermath of a hurricane, the impact on homes and HVAC systems can be significant. At Custom Comfort Air, we understand the importance of restoring comfort and safety to your home quickly. Here are essential tips to help you navigate HVAC care after a storm. Call 281.342.2512 Safety First: Assessing Damage After a hurricane, prioritize safety when assessing your home and HVAC system. Look for any visible signs of damage such as debris around the unit, dents or dings on the exterior, or any signs of water intrusion. If there’s flooding or standing water near the HVAC unit, do not approach it until it’s safe to do so and the power supply is disconnected. Always prioritize personal safety and consider professional help if needed. Power Restoration: Restarting Your HVAC System Once the storm has passed and power is restored, cautiously restart your HVAC system. Begin by setting the thermostat to “off” to prevent immediate operation. Check for any visible signs of damage or unusual sounds coming from the unit. If you suspect water damage or if the system was submerged, refrain from restarting it yourself to avoid potential hazards. Instead, contact a qualified HVAC technician for...

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Stay Cool and Save Money: The Best AC Temperature Settings for Sugar Land, Texas Summers

June 17, 2024

Summer in Texas, can be scorching, with temperatures frequently climbing into the 90s and even the triple digits. With such intense heat, knowing the optimal temperature to set your air conditioner is crucial for staying comfortable without breaking the bank. Here’s a fun and informative guide to help you find that sweet spot for your AC settings this summer. Call 281.342.2512 Understanding the Ideal Temperature Energy Efficiency and Comfort Balance The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78°F when you’re at home during the summer. This temperature strikes a balance between energy efficiency and comfort. However, personal preferences and specific household needs might require slight adjustments. Adjusting for Nighttime and Away Settings When you’re sleeping, consider setting the thermostat slightly higher, around 82°F. For times when you’re not at home, setting it even higher, around 85°F, can help save on energy bills. Programmable thermostats can automate these changes for you, ensuring your home is cool when you need it and energy-efficient when you don’t. Tips for Staying Cool in Sugar Land’s Summer Heat Use Ceiling Fans Ceiling fans can help circulate cool air more effectively, allowing you to feel comfortable even at slightly...

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Why Is My AC Fan Not Spinning? Common Causes and Solutions

May 19, 2024

When your AC fan isn’t spinning, it’s not just a minor inconvenience—it can lead to decreased cooling efficiency and potential system damage. Understanding the reasons behind this issue can help you troubleshoot and resolve it quickly. Let’s explore some common causes of a non-spinning AC fan and provide solutions to get your system back up and running efficiently. Call 281.342.2512 Power Supply Issues: One of the primary reasons for an AC fan not spinning is power supply issues. Begin by checking the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped and that the AC unit is receiving power. Faulty wiring or a blown fuse can also disrupt the power supply to the fan motor, leading to a non-spinning fan. Signs of power supply problems include a complete lack of response from the AC unit or intermittent operation. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage to the system. Faulty Capacitor: The capacitor plays a crucial role in starting the fan motor. When it’s faulty or has failed, the fan may not spin properly or at all. Signs of a faulty capacitor include clicking sounds coming from the AC unit or the fan motor struggling to start. Regular maintenance...

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Why Is There a Bad Smell Coming from Your Air Conditioner?

April 23, 2024

Are you noticing any unpleasant smells coming from your air conditioner? Is it not cooling your home like before? You are not alone. Bad odors are common in AC units, but you must resolve them quickly to avoid health issues. At Custom Comfort Air, your comfort and safety are our priority, and we are here to help you understand why your air conditioner smells bad and why you need a professional’s intervention. Call 281.342.2512 Mold And Mildew One of the biggest causes of an air conditioner’s stinky smell is mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew love humid, dark places and that’s exactly what the inside of your AC unit contributes to – a dark, humid space. Over time, moisture will accumulate and mold and mildew can grow on the evaporator coils, in the drip pans or perhaps even in your ductwork itself. When your AC runs, that mold and mildew begins to get blown around your entire house leaving you with a moldy, mildewy stench. Clogged drains The line located between the filter and upper coils: It’s likely you’re experiencing stinky air due to a clogged drain line leading outside your home – the main drain line...

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Spring Clean Your HVAC: A Guide for Sugar Land Residents

March 29, 2024

As the vibrant season of spring arrives in Sugar Land, Texas, it’s the perfect time to give your HVAC system some well-deserved attention. Just like your home, your HVAC system needs a thorough spring cleaning to ensure it operates efficiently and effectively throughout the warmer months. In this guide tailored for Sugar Land residents, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to spring clean your HVAC system, promoting better indoor air quality and optimal performance. Call 281.342.2512 Step 1: Check and Replace Air Filters One of the simplest yet most impactful tasks is checking and replacing your air filters. Over the winter, dust, pet dander, and other particles can accumulate, hindering airflow and reducing efficiency. By replacing your filters, you’ll improve indoor air quality and allow your system to operate more smoothly in the humid Texas climate. Step 2: Clear Debris Around Outdoor Units Take a stroll outside your home and inspect the area around your outdoor HVAC unit. Clear away any debris such as leaves, branches, or dirt that may have accumulated during the winter or from the occasional storms in the area. This ensures that your unit has proper airflow, preventing potential issues and maintaining efficient...

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