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Why Is My AC So Loud? A Homeowner’s Guide to Common Causes & Fixes

. Posted by in • Corpus Christi
an AC vent

Key Takeaways

A loud AC unit is often the first sign that something is wrong, from loose parts and clogged filters to failing motors or refrigerant leaks. Identifying the type of sound early can help you decide whether it’s a simple DIY fix or time to call a professional.

In many parts of Texas, air conditioners run hard for most of the year. Naturally, most homeowners get used to the normal background sound of cooling. A steady hum, a brief click at startup or airflow moving through the vents doesn’t always mean anything is wrong. But when the sound changes, if it suddenly bangs, buzzes, whistles or seems louder than usual, that’s usually when people start asking “why is my AC so loud?”

Some sounds are harmless and tied to normal AC operation. Others point to parts wearing down, airflow problems or electrical issues that … Read Full Post »

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Water Leaking From AC Unit: Should I Be Worried?

. Posted by in • Austin
Water leaking from an ac unit

Key Takeaways

Water leaking from your AC can be caused by clogged drain lines, dirty air filters, frozen coils or a damaged drain pan. Some fixes can be handled by homeowners, but if the leak keeps coming back, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician.

When it comes to water leaking from your AC unit, it’s important to know that some moisture is normal, but active leaking is cause for concern. 

If your AC unit is actively leaking, it’s important to work with a professional to get to the root of the issue. 

For Texas homeowners, leaks are especially common due to the heat and humidity we often have. Higher temperatures and humidity levels force your AC unit to work harder to cool your home, which puts stress on the system and increases the likelihood of water leaks.

This guide covers everything you need to know … Read Full Post »

How Does a Generac Generator Work During a Power Outage?

. Posted by in • Bryan-College Station
a generac generator

Key Takeaways

A Generac standby generator is a whole-home backup power solution. For many Texas homeowners, investing in a properly sized and professionally installed Generac generator will help keep their home running smoothly during an outage.

In Texas, power outages are often caused by severe storms and summer heat putting strain on the power grid. One of the best ways to prepare for a power outage is investing in a backup power source, like a Generac home generator.

A Generac generator is a standby generator, which is different from a portable generator. It’s designed to automatically restore power during an outage and is more reliable and convenient than portable generators.

This comprehensive guide covers how Generac standby generators work, their fuel types and the advantages of owning one in Texas. It also includes expert insights from Anthony Burks, Master Electrician and certified Generac generator maintenance technician … Read Full Post »

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My AC Is Blowing Warm Air: What Is Going On?

. Posted by in • Corpus Christi
AC blowing warm air into a white kitchen

Key Takeaways

If your AC is blowing warm air, common culprits include clogged air filters, low refrigerant and a frozen evaporator coil. Staying on top of routine maintenance, like replacing filters every three months and scheduling annual professional tune-ups, can help Texas homeowners prevent cooling issues and keep their AC running year-round.

As a Texas homeowner, the last thing you want during the spring and summer months is for your AC to blow warm air. Not only does it make your home uncomfortable, but it can also indicate a deeper issue with your air conditioning unit. 

What does it mean when your AC blows warm air? Typically, it signals that your AC is running but not properly cooling the air. 

This guide covers the most common causes of an AC unit blowing warm air, why it’s more common in Texas homes and when you should call … Read Full Post »

Why Does My Air Conditioner Smell Musty?

. Posted by in • San Antonio
An air register that's blowing air from a musty air conditioner

Key Takeaways

A musty smell coming from your air conditioner is usually caused by moisture buildup, clogged drain lines or mildew growth. While some fixes like replacing your air filter can be done on your own, ongoing odors are best handled by a professional HVAC technician.

Have you noticed an unpleasant, musty odor in your home when you turn on the air conditioning? It may smell like dirty socks, a damp odor or another foul smell. 

You’re not imagining things. There are a number of reasons why your AC can create a musty smell in your home. Even if the smell isn’t too strong, it’s important not to ignore it. The odor can eventually lead to bigger problems, such as poor air quality, mildew and low efficiency. 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about musty air conditioning odors, including causes and fixes. Additionally, … Read Full Post »

Water Heater Making a Popping Noise: What’s Wrong?

. Posted by in • San Antonio
water heater making popping noise

Is a noisy water heater causing you trouble? The first thing to know is that noises coming from your water heater are normal, but they can point to maintenance needs. 

As a homeowner, you might notice that the noises get worse when your water heater’s burner is on. This is also normal, but it’s important to understand what’s going on.

This guide covers the most common causes of water heater popping noises, how to diagnose what you’re heating, DIY fixes and when it’s time to call in a professional. 

It also includes expert insights from Michael Marugo, ABC Home & Commercial Services’ Plumbing Division Operations Manager and a licensed plumber with over 30 years of experience in the plumbing service industry.

Is a Popping Noise Dangerous?

If your water heater is making a popping noise, it can indicate a sediment buildup or an overheating risk. Over time, these issues can reduce your water heater’s efficiency … Read Full Post »

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How Long Do Generators Last?

. Posted by in • Bryan-College Station
a generator

Many Texas homeowners choose to rely on generators for backup power. Since we experience high summer heat and occasional winter freezes, having a standby generator can keep your home powered during outages.

How long do generators last, and what can you do to extend their lifespan? To help answer these questions, we spoke with Anthony Burks, Master Electrician at ABC Home & Commercial Services.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the lifespan of your generator, how to make it last as long as possible, signs that it’s near the end of its life and more.

Average Lifespan of Home Generators

The average lifespan of a professionally-installed, well-maintained standby generator is between 20 and 30 years. However, the lifespan of generators is not solely measured in years; it’s also measured in hours of use.

A well-maintained standby generator can typically offer about 10,000 to … Read Full Post »

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GFCI Outlet is Not Working: Symptoms, Causes and Fixes for a Broken GFCI Outlet

. Posted by in • San Antonio
A red light coming from the outlet which indicates the GFCI outlet is not working

When electricians talk about GFCI outlets, they’re talking about ground-fault circuit interrupters. This is a common safety feature in many homes. What is a GFCI outlet?

Anthony Burks, Master Electrician at ABC Home & Commercial Services, explains: “GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. It’s a specialty device designed to turn power off due to a fault in the circuit for safety.”

The difference between a standard outlet and a GFCI outlet is that GFCI outlets continuously monitor the current through the circuit. They can detect when current is leaking where it shouldn’t.

As Burks explains: “GFCIs are designed to cut power off if it detects a ground fault. It monitors surges in the current going to and returning from equipment. If the difference meets the rating of the specific GFCI device, then it shuts off power. A ground fault occurs when there is an unintentional path between a power source and a grounded … Read Full Post »

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Why Is My Water Bill So High?

. Posted by in • Austin
a person's hand with a calculator and a bill

Key Takeaways

  • Water bill spikes are usually caused by hidden leaks or changes in household water use.
  • Running toilets and slab leaks are two of the most common culprits.
  • When in doubt, calling a licensed plumber can help prevent damage and avoid higher utility bills.

When homeowners see a sudden spike in their water bill, it can often lead to finger-pointing and frustration. Maybe your water pressure isn’t as strong as it used to be, or your toilet won’t flush all the way.

Most of the time, a higher water bill comes down to two things:

  • A hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing
  • A recent change in how much water your household uses

If you have kids home from college, guests staying over or a new garden that you’re watering more, you may also … Read Full Post »

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Why Is My Toilet Running?

. Posted by in • Austin
a running toilet

Key Takeaways

Running toilets are common and can waste hundreds of gallons each day. Use this guide to spot the signs, understand the most likely causes and know when to bring in a plumber.

A toilet that constantly runs can cause all kinds of issues for your household. The sound is annoying, but it can also cost you money. A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, which can add up fast.

Unfortunately, running toilets are very common. Any issue that allows water to leak from the toilet’s internal system can cause that nonstop flow. 

Below, we go into the most common causes and how homeowners can identify them, along with when it’s time to call in a plumber.

Quick Checklist

Use this short to-do list to help you figure out what might be going … Read Full Post »

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