HVAC Blog & Expert Advice
Helpful guides and answers from the Climate Codes team
How Does Geothermal Heating and Cooling Work?
A geothermal heat pump — also called a ground-source heat pump — heats and cools a building by moving heat to and from the ground instead of the outdoor air. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, shallow-earth temperatures stay relatively steady, typically about 40°F to 70°F. In summer the ground acts as a heat sink that absorbs heat pulled from your home; in winter it serves as a heat source.
Read ArticleWhy Plan Geothermal HVAC Into a New Dallas Home?
New construction is the most practical time to add geothermal HVAC in Dallas because the underground loop can be installed while the site is already being trenched, drilled, and graded — before the foundation, landscaping, and finished surfaces are in place. The system then takes advantage of ground temperatures roughly 15–30 feet down that are far steadier than Dallas's summer and winter air.
Read ArticleGeothermal Loop Types Explained: Which Fits Your Lot?
The U.S. Department of Energy describes four common ways a geothermal system connects to the ground: horizontal closed loops laid in trenches, vertical closed loops in drilled boreholes, pond/lake closed loops submerged in an adequate body of water, and open loops that pass groundwater or surface water through the heat pump. The right choice depends mostly on how much land you have, what's under it, and whether a suitable water source exists.
Read ArticleIs Geothermal HVAC Worth It?
Geothermal can be worth it for homeowners who plan to stay long enough for lower operating costs to offset a higher upfront cost. ENERGY STAR says its certified geothermal heat pumps use 61% less energy than a standard model, with estimated savings of nearly $830 per year and more than $9,500 over 15 years. Actual savings vary with climate, utility rates, the home's envelope, system sizing, and installation quality.
Read ArticleWhy Is My AC Not Cooling?
The most common reasons your AC is not cooling include a dirty air filter restricting airflow, low refrigerant levels from a leak, a malfunctioning thermostat, dirty condenser coils, or a failing compressor. Start by checking and replacing your air filter, then call a professional if the problem persists.
Read ArticleHow Much Does AC Repair Cost in Dallas?
AC repair in Dallas typically costs between $150 and $600 for most common repairs. Simple fixes like capacitor replacement run $150-300, refrigerant recharges cost $200-500, and more complex repairs like evaporator coil replacement range from $600-2,000. Emergency service may have a small surcharge.
Read ArticleHow Long Do AC Units Last in Texas?
AC units in Texas typically last 10-15 years, which is shorter than the national average of 15-20 years. The extreme Texas heat means your AC works harder and longer each year, accumulating more wear. Regular maintenance, quality installation, and proper sizing can help your system reach the upper end of that range.
Read ArticleWhen Should I Replace My AC?
You should consider replacing your AC when it is over 10-12 years old, requires frequent or expensive repairs, uses R-22 refrigerant, consistently fails to cool your home adequately, or when repair costs exceed 50% of a new system. Replacing a struggling system often saves more money long-term through lower energy bills and fewer repairs.
Read Article