Donna Uetz 10/6/25 Donna Uetz 10/6/25

Checklist: Get your HVAC System Ready for Vacation

Checklist to make sure your HVAC systems is working properly while you’re on vacation or away form home for an extended period.

Before your vacation or extended travel, ensure your HVAC system is ready to save energy and protect your home. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

Have an HVAC technician inspect and service your furnace or heat pump before you leave to prevent breakdowns and ensure efficiency.

2. Adjust Thermostat Settings

- Summer: Set to 80–85°F to avoid mold and protect electronics.

- Winter: Set to 50–55°F to prevent frozen pipes.

- Consider a smart thermostat for remote control.

3. Seal Doors and Windows

Check for drafts and seal leaks with weatherstripping to maintain indoor temperature.

4. Close Curtains/Blinds

Block sunlight in summer or insulate in winter to reduce HVAC strain.

5. Clear Outdoor Unit

Remove leaves, dirt, or debris around the outdoor unit for proper airflow.

6. Ensure Open Vents

Keep all vents unblocked and interior doors slightly open for consistent airflow.

7. Consider Pets/Plants

If leaving pets or plants, set the thermostat to maintain their comfort (e.g., 65–75°F).

8. While Away

- Program your thermostat for gradual temperature changes.

- Monitor remotely with a smart thermostat.

- Ensure windows and doors are secure.

9. When You Return

- Gradually adjust the thermostat to your normal setting to avoid system strain.

- Use a smart thermostat to pre-cool or pre-heat a few hours before arriving.

By following these steps, you’ll return to a comfortable, energy-efficient home. Enjoy your trip!

Ready for a professional checkup of your HVAC system?

We’re proud to support the DFW Metroplex with all heating and cooling needs including the following cities: Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, Garland, Frisco, McKinney, Grand Prairie, Denton, Richardson, Grapevine, Addison, Allen, Anna, Argyle, Bedford, Carrollton, Colleyville, Coppell, Corinth, Euless, Farmers Branch, Flower Mound, Haltom City, Haslet, Highland Park, Highland Village, Hurst, Keller, Lake Dallas, Lewisville, Little Elm, Mesquite, North Richland Hills, Prosper, Richland Hills, Roanoke, Rockwall, Rowlett, Saginaw, Southlake, The Colony, Trophy Club, University Park, Watauga, Westlake, and Wylie.

Donna Uetz 9/22/25 Donna Uetz 9/22/25

HOW TO GET YOUR FURNACE READY FOR WINTER

Furnace tune-up.

Getting your furnace ready for winter in North Texas, where temperatures can dip to the 30s or occasionally lower, is essential to ensure reliable heating and energy efficiency. Here’s a concise guide to prepare your furnace:

1. Schedule a Professional Furnace Inspection

-Arrange for a professional tune-up in early fall (September or October) before the heating season.

- What They’ll Do:

- Inspect and clean the burner, heat exchanger, and ignition system.

- Check for gas leaks (if it’s a gas furnace) or electrical issues (for electric furnaces).

- Test the thermostat and ensure proper cycling.

- Lubricate moving parts like the blower motor to reduce wear.

- Inspect the flue pipe for proper venting to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

2. Replace or Clean the Air Filter

- Check Monthly: A dirty filter reduces efficiency and strains the furnace.

- Replace Disposable Filters: Use a high-efficiency filter (MERV 8–11) compatible with your system. Replace every 1–3 months depending on the traffic in your home.

3. Test the Furnace Early.

Turn on the furnace for 10–15 minutes to ensure it starts, heats evenly, and shuts off properly. Listen for unusual noises (banging, rattling) and check for odd smells (burning or gas odors).

4. Clear Vents and Ducts

- Check Air Vents: Ensure all vents and registers in your home are unblocked by furniture, rugs, or dust. Vacuum them to remove debris.

- Seal Leaks: Have a technician check for leaks in ductwork to prevent heat loss, especially in attics or crawlspaces.

5. Inspect Venting (for Gas Furnaces)

- Clear Obstructions: Ensure the exhaust vent is free of debris, bird nests, or blockages.

- Check for Carbon Monoxide: Install or test carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and replace batteries annually. Gas furnaces can produce CO if not properly maintained.

6. Ensure Proper Insulation

- Check Home Insulation: Ensure your attic and walls are well-insulated to reduce furnace workload. Aim for R-30 to R-49 attic insulation per Texas building codes.

- Seal Drafts: Check windows and doors for drafts and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps, improving furnace efficiency.

7. Consider Energy Efficiency Upgrades

- Upgrade to a High-Efficiency Furnace: If your furnace is over 15 years old, consider replacing it with an ENERGY STAR-certified model eligible for the Section 25C tax credit (up to $600 for furnaces meeting efficiency standards). Contact the manufacturer for the 4-character QMID for tax filing.

- Local Rebates: Check with Oncor or other North Texas utility providers for rebates on energy-efficient furnace upgrades or maintenance.

8. Safety Checks

- Gas Furnace Safety: If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the furnace, evacuate, and call your gas company or 911 immediately.

- Electrical Safety: For electric furnaces, ensure wiring and breakers are in good condition to avoid outages during cold snaps.

9. Maintenance Frequency

- Annual Tune-Up: Schedule professional maintenance every fall.

- DIY Checks: Inspect filters monthly and vents/thermostats seasonally.

By following these steps, your furnace will be ready to keep your home comfortable and safe during winter. If you need help finding a local HVAC technician or verifying a QMID for the 25C tax credit, let me know!

Donna Uetz 9/15/25 Donna Uetz 9/15/25

WHAT IS A HEAT PUMP?

What is a heat pump and how does it work?

A heat pump is a versatile, energy-efficient system that can both heat and cool your home by transferring heat rather than generating it. Here in North Texas, where summers are hot and humid and winters are mild but can dip below freezing, a heat pump is well-suited to handle the climate.

How a Heat Pump Works

A heat pump moves heat from one place to another using a refrigerant, a compressor, and a reversing valve that allows it to switch between heating and cooling modes. It operates like an air conditioner in summer and reverses the process in winter to provide heat. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Components:

- Evaporator Coil: Absorbs heat from the outside air (in heating mode) or indoor air (in cooling mode).

- Condenser Coil: Releases heat to the outside (cooling mode) or inside (heating mode).

- Compressor: Circulates and compresses the refrigerant to facilitate heat transfer.

- Reversing Valve: Switches the direction of refrigerant flow to toggle between heating and cooling.

- Refrigerant: A special fluid that absorbs, transfers, and releases heat as it changes between liquid and gas states.

2. Cooling Mode (Summer in North Texas):

- In North Texas’ scorching summers (often 90–100°F with high humidity), the heat pump acts like an air conditioner.

- The evaporator coil (inside your home) absorbs heat from indoor air. The refrigerant inside the coil evaporates, turning from a liquid to a gas, as it absorbs this heat.

- The compressor pumps the warm refrigerant gas to the **condenser coil** (outside), where the heat is released into the outdoor air. The refrigerant condenses back into a liquid.

- The now-cool refrigerant cycles back to the indoor coil to absorb more heat, cooling your home.

- A fan blows the cooled air through your home’s ductwork, lowering the indoor temperature.

3. Heating Mode (Winter in North Texas):

- North Texas winters are mild (average lows around 35–45°F, with occasional freezes), so a heat pump is efficient for heating most of the time.

- The reversing valve flips the refrigerant flow, making the outdoor coil the evaporator and the indoor coil the condenser.

- The outdoor coil absorbs heat from the outside air (even in cold weather, there’s enough ambient heat for this to work down to about 20–30°F).

- The refrigerant carries this heat to the indoor coil, where it’s released to warm your home.

- The fan distributes the warm air through your ducts.

4. Defrost Cycle:

- In rare cases when Dallas temperatures drop near or below freezing, frost may form on the outdoor coil. The heat pump temporarily switches to a defrost mode, reversing to cooling mode briefly to warm the outdoor coil and melt the frost.

5. Section 25C Tax Credit in North Texas

Installing an ENERGY STAR-certified air-source heat pump in 2025 can qualify you for a federal tax credit of up to $2,000 (as of 2025 IRS rules). Ensure the heat pump meets the required efficiency standards (check ENERGY STAR or IRS guidelines), and obtain the 4-character QMID from the manufacturer when filing Form 5695. Local utility companies like Oncor may also offer rebates for energy-efficient heat pumps, so check their website or contact them.

5. Consider an Energy Star® Qualified Comfortmaker Heat Pump.

Ready for the next step? Contact us for a quote.

Donna Uetz 9/8/25 Donna Uetz 9/8/25

Can Air Purifiers Zap Viruses in the Air?

Can air purifiers eliminate airborne virus’ and mold in your home?

Air purifiers and A/C filters can improve your home’s air quality, making the air you breathe cleaner and healthier. How much they help depends on factors like the number of people or pets, home activities, construction quality, and your HVAC system’s setup. Cleaner air supports better health, helping your body fight illnesses alongside following CDC guidelines to reduce virus spread.

Easy Ways to Boost Air Quality:

Check and Change Filters: Clean filters are key! Check them regularly and replace as needed based on your home’s conditions.
Run Your HVAC Fan Constantly: Flip your thermostat’s fan switch to “on” to keep air circulating and filtering. This might slightly raise your electric bill (less with variable-speed motors), but it’s worth it for cleaner air. Plus, it could make your home comfier, possibly saving energy by adjusting your thermostat.
Consider one of our Whole Home In-Duct Purification Systems for even better air quality. it uses a patented Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) solution that’s pretty impressive. A UV light and a quad-metallic catalyst produce low levels of hydrogen peroxide, which actively cleans the air and surfaces by neutralizing up to 99% of viruses, bacteria, mold, and odors. With over 4 million units in use globally, it’s a trusted option for HVAC systems in homes and businesses. Stay healthy and breathe easy!

Call (972) 245-9378 for assistance. Use the Request Service button to ask about Whole Home In Duct Purification.

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Dylan McKeever 9/1/25 Dylan McKeever 9/1/25

Why’s Your A/C Making So Much Noise?

Is your A/C unit noisy? Read this post and find out what may be causing your problem.

Hearing odd buzzing or thumping from your air conditioner? Don’t worry, a noisy A/C doesn’t always mean it’s time for a replacement! At W. West HVAC Services, LLC, we offer top-notch repairs to restore your peace and quiet at a great value.

Try These Things Before Calling a Pro:

Clean or Replace Filters: Dirty filters can restrict airflow, causing whistling or banging. Check and clean or swap them regularly.
Tighten Loose Parts: Vibrations can loosen screws or bolts. Carefully tighten them, following your unit’s manual for safety.
Clean Condenser Coils: Dirt on outdoor coils can make your A/C noisier. Gently clean them (no high-pressure water!) after turning off the power.

How Our Repairs Help:

Our expert technicians can quiet your A/C by:

Tightening loose components
Fixing worn parts
Performing regular cleaning and maintenance
Testing system performance

With one of our PM Service Plans, your A/C gets routine seasonal care, and we’re always ready for emergency repairs.

Get Quiet Comfort Today!

For reliable A/C repair in the DFW Metroplex, trust W. West HVAC Services, LLC. Our skilled team handles everything from maintenance to emergency fixes with quality guarantees. Strange A/C noises?

Check out our Preventative Maintenance Service Plans or schedule a service now. Call (972) 245-9378 for assistance.

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Donna Uetz 8/25/25 Donna Uetz 8/25/25

Ways To Extend The Life of Your A/C Unit

Timely air conditioning repair is crucial for maintaining comfort, extending unit lifespan, and avoiding costly replacements.

Here’s why:

Prevent Major Issues: Addressing minor problems like clogged filters or small leaks early prevents them from escalating into major, expensive repairs, preserving efficiency and reducing strain on components.

Boost Energy Efficiency: Regular repairs ensure optimal performance, reducing energy consumption and lowering bills. Simple fixes like cleaning filters or sealing ducts can significantly cut costs.

Improve Air Quality: Prompt repairs keep filters and vents clean, preventing dust and allergens from circulating, which supports a healthier indoor environment.

Enhance Safety: Routine maintenance identifies hazards like faulty wiring or refrigerant leaks, preventing fires or health risks and ensuring safe operation.

Ensure Reliability: Timely repairs maintain system dependability, preventing breakdowns during peak heat and ensuring consistent comfort.

Investing in prompt repairs optimizes performance, enhances safety, and extends your AC unit’s lifespan (typically 15-20 years, per HomeAdvisor). Schedule maintenance with W. West HVAC Services, LLC to keep your system efficient and reliable all summer.

Check out our Preventative Maintenance Service Plans or schedule a service now. Call (972) 245-9378 for assistance.

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Donna Uetz 8/18/25 Donna Uetz 8/18/25

When You Need Professional Service

How do you know when professional service is needed?

Air conditioners, a 20th-century innovation, keep us cool but require occasional repairs for optimal performance. Knowing which tasks you can DIY and when to call professionals saves time, money, and stress.

DIY Maintenance: Homeowners can handle simple tasks like cleaning or replacing air filters and checking thermostat settings. Regular maintenance ensures airflow, efficiency, and lower energy bills.

Professional Repairs: Complex issues like electrical problems, refrigerant leaks, or compressor failures require trained technicians. Since Willis Carrier’s 1902 invention, AC systems have grown intricate, and improper repairs can void warranties or pose safety risks.

When to Call Pros: Unusual noises like hissing or clanking, often indicating refrigerant leaks or clogged drains, demand professional expertise for accurate diagnosis and safe repairs.For complex AC issues, trust experts to ensure safety and extend your unit’s lifespan.

Contact W. West HVAC Services, LLC for professional repairs..

Schedule a service now. Call (972) 245-9378 for assistance.

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Donna Uetz 8/11/25 Donna Uetz 8/11/25

Signs You Need AC Repair

What are the signs you need A/C repair?

As temperatures rise, proactive air conditioning maintenance prevents costly repairs or replacements. Monitoring your unit and addressing early warning signs ensures comfort and efficiency. Regular seasonal maintenance catches minor issues before they become major problems.

Unusual Noises: Banging, clanking, or hissing sounds signal internal issues like loose or broken components. Ignoring them risks bigger problems or unit failure.
Warm Air from Vents: If vents blow warm air, refrigerant leaks or a faulty compressor may be the cause. For units over 15 years old, replacement may be more cost-effective than repair, per HomeAdvisor.
Rising Energy Bills: Higher bills without increased usage indicate inefficiency from worn parts or outdated technology, forcing your AC to work harder.

Promptly addressing these signs through maintenance or repairs extends your AC’s lifespan and improves efficiency. Schedule maintenance with W. West HVAC Services, LLC to keep your system efficient and reliable all summer.

Ask about our Preventative Maintenance Service Plans or schedule a service now. Call (972) 245-9378 for assistance.

Schedule Service

Donna Uetz 8/4/25 Donna Uetz 8/4/25

WHY FINANCE A NEW A/C SYSTEM

Reasons to finance a new HVAC system.

By financing, you can replace an outdated or inefficient system sooner, enjoy immediate benefits, and manage costs effectively over time.

Financing a new HVAC system for your home can be a smart decision for several reasons. Here are some key points to consider:

• Avoid Emergency Costs: If your current HVAC system is old or failing, unexpected repairs can be costly. Financing a new system proactively can prevent sudden expenses and ensure reliable heating and cooling.

• Increased Home Value: A new, efficient HVAC system can boost your home’s resale value and appeal to potential buyers. Financing allows you to invest in this upgrade without depleting your savings.

• Warranty and Maintenance Benefits: New systems come with warranties, reducing future repair costs. Financing enables you to afford a system with robust coverage, providing peace of mind.

• Improved Energy Efficiency: New HVAC systems are often more energy-efficient than older models, potentially reducing your utility bills. Financing allows you to spread the upfront cost over time while benefiting from immediate savings on energy expenses.

• Enhanced Comfort: A modern HVAC system provides better temperature control, improved air quality, and quieter operation, enhancing your home’s comfort. Financing makes it easier to afford a high-quality system without delaying the upgrade.

We now offer residential financing through Synchrony Bank. Select from no interest if paid in 6 months or several fixed payment plans.

Start the process now. Request a quote and then apply for financing through Synchrony.

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**Financing is subject to credit approval.

Dylan McKeever 7/29/25 Dylan McKeever 7/29/25

Maintaining Your Air Filters Saves Money

Check you air filters regularly.

Regularly checking your air filters is the most effective and budget-friendly way to maintain your central heating and air conditioning system.

We recommend inspecting filters every 3-6 months. Replace disposable filters if dirty; do not attempt to clean them. During peak seasons, check every three months.

Locating Your Air Filter

Your air filter is typically found in the return air duct near the furnace or indoor unit, or by the blower motor inside the furnace. Some systems have a central filter in a wall or ceiling. If unsure, ask your technician to show you during your next service call.

Installing Air Filters

Air filters are directional, with an arrow or airflow symbol indicating the correct orientation. The arrow should point toward the furnace or air handler.

Recommended Filter Replacement Schedule

Average suburban home, no pets: Every 90 days

Home with one pet or allergies: Every 60 days
Home with multiple pets or severe allergies: Every 30-45 days
Vacation home or single occupant, no pets/allergies: Every 6-12 months

These are general guidelines. Adjust based on your home’s dust buildup and for North Texas’ high pollen seasons in spring and fall. Regular maintenance benefits you, your family, and your HVAC system.

Ask about our Preventative Maintenance Service Plans or schedule a service now. Call (972) 245-9378 for assistance.

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