AC and heating questions, answered
General
How much does a new AC system cost in Houston?
Most full replacements (AC, coil and furnace or air handler) land between $9,000 and $16,000 depending on size and efficiency. We give you three written options at the free estimate.
Do you charge to come out for a repair?
A repair visit has a diagnostic fee that goes toward the repair. Comfort Club members never pay it.
Do I need a permit to replace my AC?
Yes. The City of Houston requires a mechanical permit and inspection for a changeout. We pull it and meet the inspector.
What refrigerant do new systems use?
New systems use A2L refrigerants like R-454B. R-22 is no longer made, so old R-22 systems are usually replaced instead of recharged.
Are you licensed?
Yes. We hold a Texas TDLR air conditioning and refrigeration contractor license, and every tech is EPA 608 certified.
AC repair
How fast can you come for AC repair in Houston?
In summer we try to book same day. You get a text with an arrival window and another when the tech is on the way. If we miss the window, the diagnostic fee is waived.
Should I repair or replace my AC?
If the repair is under about a third of the cost of a new system and the unit is under 12 years old, repair usually makes sense. We show both prices side by side.
Why is my AC freezing up?
Low airflow from a dirty filter or a weak blower is the most common cause. Low refrigerant is the next. Turn the AC off and let the ice melt before the visit.
Do you charge extra for nights and weekends?
Ask when you book. We give the price in writing before work starts, so there is no surprise.
New AC and heating systems
How much does a new AC cost in Houston?
Most full systems usually land between $5,000 and $12,500, with larger or high-efficiency homes going higher. You get exact numbers in writing after the free estimate.
How long does a changeout take?
Most are done in one day. A full system with new ductwork can take two to three days.
Do I need a permit?
Yes. The City of Houston requires a mechanical permit and inspection. We handle both and include them in the price.
What size AC do I need?
It depends on the house, not just square feet. We run a load calculation that counts windows, insulation, attic and sun.
Tune-ups
When is the best time for an AC tune-up in Houston?
March or April, before the first 95° days. Booking is easy then, and any problem found can be fixed before the rush.
How long does a tune-up take?
Most take 45 to 90 minutes for one system.
Does a tune-up lower my bill?
A clean coil and a clear drain help the system run the way it was built to. The savings are real but small. The bigger win is avoiding a no-cool call.
Do I need a tune-up if my AC is new?
A new system still needs a yearly check to keep the warranty valid. Many makers ask for proof of maintenance.
Heating repair
Is it safe to run my furnace if it smells odd?
A short dusty smell on the first run is normal. A gas smell or rotten-egg smell is not. Leave the house and call your gas company right away.
Do I need a carbon monoxide detector?
Yes, one on each floor and near bedrooms. Test them in the fall before the first cold night.
Should I fix or replace an old furnace?
If it is over 15 years old or has a cracked heat exchanger, replacement is usually the better value. We show you both.
Do you fix heat pumps too?
Yes. Many Houston homes have heat pumps, and we repair both gas and electric heating.
Leaks and drain lines
Why is my AC leaking water inside?
A clogged condensate drain is the most common reason. A rusted pan, a frozen coil or a cracked drain pipe can also cause it.
Can I clear the drain myself?
You can pour a cup of vinegar down the access tee, but a wet-vac or flush is more reliable. If water keeps returning, call us.
Will insurance cover ceiling damage?
Some homeowner policies cover sudden water damage but not slow leaks. Call your insurer and take photos.
How often should I treat the drain?
Every 3 months in Houston is a good habit. Comfort Club Plus members get it each visit.
Thermostats and air quality
Will a smart thermostat lower my bill?
It can, mainly by raising the temperature a few degrees while you are away. Savings depend on how you use it.
Do I need a C-wire?
Many smart thermostats need one. If your system does not have it, we can add a power adapter or run a new wire.
How often should I change a media filter?
Every 6 to 12 months for a 4-inch media filter, based on pets and dust.
Does a UV light make the air safe?
It helps keep the coil clean. It is not a replacement for a filter or for fixing mold at the source.
Cost
Why does AC cost so much in Houston?
The system runs most of the year, parts wear out sooner, and the climate needs the right size and dehumidifying power. Permits and inspections add cost on changeouts.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace my AC?
Repair is cheaper up front. Replacement makes sense if the unit is old, uses R-22, or the repair is more than a third of the cost of a new one.
Do you offer financing?
Ask about financing when you get your estimate. We show cash prices in writing first.
Are these prices your prices?
No. They are typical Houston ranges from public sources. Prices marked as ours are from our own list.