HVAC Tips & Maintenance

Practical advice from your trusted Dallas HVAC professionals. Keep your system running efficiently, lower your energy bills, and extend the life of your equipment.

Seasonal Preparation

Winterizing Your HVAC System

Preparing Your System for Cold Weather

  1. Schedule a professional fall furnace inspection. A Dalco technician will check the heat exchanger, test safety controls, clean burners and blower, and verify efficient operation before the cold sets in.
  2. Change or clean your air filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forces your furnace to work harder, and drives up energy costs. Replace every 1-3 months during heating season.
  3. Check and seal ductwork. Leaky ducts can lose up to 30% of heated air before it reaches your rooms. Inspect accessible ducts and seal gaps with metal-backed tape or mastic sealant.
  4. Test your thermostat. Switch to heating mode and set the temperature a few degrees above room temp. If the furnace does not kick on, call Dalco for service.
  5. Clear the area around your outdoor unit. Remove leaves, debris, and any vegetation within 2 feet of the condenser. Cover the unit with a breathable cover designed for AC condensers (never use plastic wrap).
  6. Check carbon monoxide detectors. Gas furnaces produce CO as a byproduct. Test detectors and replace batteries to ensure your family's safety.

Quick Reference

Year-Round HVAC Best Practices

Change Filters Regularly

Replace disposable filters every 30-90 days. Homes with pets, allergies, or dusty environments should change them more frequently. A clean filter improves efficiency by 5-15%.

Program Your Thermostat

Set temperatures higher in summer (78F) and lower in winter (68F) when you're away or sleeping. Smart thermostats like the iComfort S30 can do this automatically.

Keep Vents Clear

Ensure supply and return vents are not blocked by furniture, rugs, or curtains. Blocked vents reduce efficiency and can cause system strain or uneven temperatures.

Annual Professional Tune-Ups

Schedule AC maintenance in spring and furnace inspection in fall. Our Comfort Service Plan handles all of this automatically so you never forget.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

Consider installing germicidal UV lights, whole-home air purifiers like the Lennox PurAir, or scheduling professional duct cleaning to remove allergens and contaminants.

Listen for Unusual Noises

Squealing, grinding, banging, or rattling sounds can indicate loose parts, motor issues, or failing components. Turn off the system and call Dalco immediately.

Save Money

Energy-Saving Tips for Dallas Homeowners

Reduce Your Energy Bills

  • Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and electrical outlets. Use weatherstripping and caulk to prevent conditioned air from escaping.
  • Add insulation to your attic. Proper insulation keeps your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, significantly reducing HVAC runtime.
  • Use ceiling fans to circulate air. In summer, run fans counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze. In winter, reverse the direction to push warm air down from the ceiling.
  • Close blinds and curtains on south-facing and west-facing windows during summer afternoons to reduce heat gain.
  • Upgrade to a smart thermostat. The Lennox iComfort S30 learns your patterns and optimizes temperature settings automatically, potentially saving 10-15% on annual energy costs.
  • Consider a high-efficiency Lennox system. Modern Lennox units with high SEER2 ratings can cut cooling costs by 20-40% compared to older systems. Ask Dalco for a free estimate.

Need Professional HVAC Help?

Call Dalco today for expert service, seasonal maintenance, or a free estimate on a new energy-efficient Lennox system.

(214) 381-1445