Frequently Asked Questions
Triple A Air Conditioning & Heating is here to answer all of the most common air conditioning, heating, and IAQ questions. To discover how our highly trained technicians can take care of your home, give us a call. We can be reached at 361-991-0967 or through our online contact form.
This is a common AC issue that can be caused by a number of circumstances. Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Refrigerant leaks
- Thermostat fan set to “auto” instead of “on”
- Dirty evaporator coils
- Thermostat set to “heat”
- Clogged air filters
- Leaking ductwork
- Loss of power in the outdoor unit
The lifespan of an air conditioner depends on a number of factors, including the quality of installation, frequency of maintenance, and local climate conditions. A properly installed, well-maintained AC can last anywhere from 10-15 years. On the other hand, skipping out on AC maintenance and tune-ups can significantly reduce the lifespan of a system.
Ready for an AC installation or replacement? While the size of the AC unit you need depends on a number of factors—including the number of people in your home, the number and style of windows, ductwork, climate zone, insulation, efficiency goals, and more—the size of your home is the most important.
Below is a breakdown of the AC size requirements based on the size of a home:
- 500-700 square feet: 14,000 BTUs
- 700-1,000 square feet: 18,000 BTUs
- 1,000-1,200 square feet: 21,000 BTUs
- 1,200-1,400 square feet: 23,000 BTUs
- 1,400-1,500 square feet: 24,000 BTUs
- 1,500-2,000 square feet: 30,000 BTUs
- 2,000-2,500 square feet: 34,000 BTUs
In order to conserve energy and minimize monthly energy costs, the Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit during summer, when you are home. When you are away from home for longer periods of time, you should set your thermostat to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Experts recommend servicing your air conditioner at least once a year, during spring. Much like your car, your AC needs to be regularly tuned up in order to maintain maximum performance. Regular AC tune-ups improve energy efficiency, reduce the risk of AC repairs, prolong the system’s lifespan, and maximize your at-home comfort. Reach out to Triple A Air Conditioning & Heating to schedule your next air conditioning service.
Yes! Triple A Air Conditioning & Heating is owned by two brothers, and their sister serves as the office manager, overseeing daily operations.
Triple A Air Conditioning & Heating has been proudly serving customers since 1983.
We proudly serve Corpus Christi and the surrounding areas, including Rockport, Portland, Robstown, and Port Aransas.
Triple A offers residential HVAC services, including maintenance, repairs, and full system replacements. We also provide ductwork repairs, replacements, and cleaning, along with indoor air quality products and blown-in insulation to improve home comfort and efficiency.
Yes! Triple A offers two membership plans designed to accommodate every homeowner’s needs.
Yes! Triple A works with multiple lenders to provide flexible financing options for our customers.
Yes! All of our trucks are fully stocked, ensuring our technicians have the parts and equipment needed to complete most jobs on the spot.
If your AC is running but not cooling, it could be due to several issues, including:
- Dirty or clogged air filter restricting airflow.
- Low refrigerant levels due to a leak.
- Dirty condenser coils preventing heat transfer.
- Blocked or closed vents affecting circulation.
- A faulty thermostat not signaling the system properly.
- Frozen evaporator coils caused by restricted airflow or refrigerant issues.
If your AC is frozen, follow these steps:
- Turn off the AC to prevent further damage.
- Check the air filter and replace it if it's dirty.
- Ensure all vents are open and unblocked to improve airflow.
- Let the ice melt completely before turning the system back on.
Yes, an AC that runs non-stop can indicate:
- A dirty air filter restricting airflow.
- A malfunctioning thermostat not registering the correct temperature.
- Low refrigerant levels causing the unit to struggle.
- An undersized unit that can't properly cool your home.
Skipping regular AC maintenance can lead to:
- Reduced efficiency and higher energy bills.
- Increased risk of breakdowns and costly repairs.
- Shortened system lifespan.
- Poor indoor air quality due to dirty components.
We do not recommend installing your own AC unit. Proper installation requires specialized knowledge, tools, and permits to ensure efficiency, safety, and compliance with local codes. Incorrect installation can void warranties, lead to refrigerant leaks, and reduce system performance.
Consider replacing your AC if:
- It’s over 10-15 years old.
- Your energy bills keep rising.
- You experience frequent breakdowns.
Your AC unit should be installed in a shaded, well-ventilated area with proper clearance for airflow and maintenance. A professional can recommend the best placement for efficiency and longevity.
A standard AC installation typically takes 4 to 8 hours, but complex setups may take longer.
An AC tune-up typically includes:
- Checking refrigerant levels.
- Inspecting electrical connections.
- Cleaning the condenser.
- Lubricating moving parts.
- Testing thermostat accuracy.
Yes! Regular tune-ups improve efficiency, reduce breakdowns, lower energy costs, and extend your system's lifespan.
At least once a year, preferably in the spring before peak summer use.
- Change air filters regularly.
- Keep vents unblocked for proper airflow.
- Schedule annual tune-ups.
- Keep the outdoor unit clear of debris.
Indoor air quality refers to the cleanliness and health of the air inside your home, affected by pollutants like dust, mold, and chemicals.
- Dust and pet dander
- Mold and mildew
- Pollen and allergens
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from household products
Yes! Certain plants, like snake plants, spider plants, and peace lilies, help remove toxins from the air.
- Use high-quality air filters.
- Install air purifiers.
- Maintain proper humidity levels.
- Keep your home clean and well-ventilated.
Common causes include:
- A tripped circuit breaker.
- A dirty air filter restricting airflow.
- A malfunctioning thermostat.
- Ignition or pilot light issues.
- Check if the thermostat is set to "heat".
- Inspect the air filter for clogs.
- Ensure the pilot light is lit.
No, furnace replacement requires expert installation to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with local codes.
- Uneven heating in your home.
- Increased energy bills.
- Frequent repairs.
- Strange noises like banging or rattling.
Yes! A new furnace improves efficiency, comfort, and reliability while reducing energy costs.
Absolutely! It prevents breakdowns, increases efficiency, and extends the system's life.
Your furnace should be tuned up at least once a year, ideally in the fall before the colder weather arrives.
- Replace air filters regularly.
- Keep vents and registers clear.
- Schedule annual tune-ups.