For standard 1-inch filters, we recommend replacing them every 30-60 days. If you have pets or allergies, you might need to replace them more frequently, around every 20-45 days. High-quality pleated filters may last 3-6 months. During peak usage seasons (summer in Fort Worth), check your filters monthly and replace when they appear dirty.

Watch for these warning signs that indicate your AC system needs professional attention:

• Warm air coming from vents
• Poor airflow or uneven cooling throughout your home
• Frequent cycling on and off
• Unusual noises like grinding, squealing, or banging
• Foul odors when the system runs
• Water leaks or excess moisture around your unit
• Higher than normal energy bills
• The system is more than 10 years old and having frequent issues

In Fort Worth's hot climate, air conditioners typically last between 10-15 years with proper maintenance. However, several factors affect lifespan including:

• Quality of the original installation
• Frequency of maintenance
• Usage patterns
• Local climate conditions

Regular professional maintenance can significantly extend your system's life. We recommend scheduling annual tune-ups before summer to ensure optimal performance during Fort Worth's hottest months.

Determining the right air conditioner size depends on several factors beyond simple square footage:

• Home's square footage
• Ceiling height
• Insulation quality
• Window efficiency and exposure
• Local climate (Fort Worth's heat requires robust cooling)
• Home orientation and shade coverage

For accurate sizing, our technicians perform a professional load calculation (Manual J) to ensure you get the perfect system for your specific needs. Improper sizing leads to inefficiency, poor comfort, and shortened equipment life.

In Fort Worth's climate, we recommend professional maintenance twice yearly:

• Spring maintenance for your cooling system (before summer heat)
• Fall maintenance for your heating system (before winter)

Regular maintenance provides numerous benefits:

• Up to 30% lower energy bills
• Extended equipment life
• Fewer breakdowns and repairs
• Maintained manufacturer warranty coverage
• Improved indoor air quality
• Enhanced system capacity and comfort

The $5,000 rule is a helpful guideline when deciding whether to repair or replace your air conditioner. Multiply the age of your equipment (in years) by the repair cost. If the result exceeds $5,000, replacement is usually more economical than repair.

For example, if your 10-year-old air conditioner needs a $600 repair:

10 years × $600 = $6,000

Since $6,000 exceeds $5,000, replacement would be recommended. This rule helps balance the cost of repairs against the diminishing returns of fixing aging equipment.

While professional maintenance is essential, there are several maintenance tasks homeowners can perform:

• Change air filters regularly (every 1-3 months)
• Keep outdoor units clear of debris, leaves, and vegetation (maintain 2 feet of clearance)
• Clean indoor supply and return vents
• Ensure nothing blocks airflow to indoor or outdoor units
• Monitor your thermostat settings for efficiency
• Check condensate drains for clogs
• Listen for unusual noises that might indicate problems

These simple tasks complement professional maintenance but don't replace it. For technical maintenance involving electrical components, refrigerant, or internal mechanics, always call our certified technicians.

Yes! Several rebate opportunities are available for Fort Worth residents:

• Utility company rebates for high-efficiency equipment
• Manufacturer rebates on select models
• Federal tax credits for qualifying energy-efficient systems
• Seasonal promotions our company offers

Rebate programs change regularly, so contact us for current information. Our comfort advisors will help you navigate available incentives to maximize your savings when upgrading your HVAC system.