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What Is a Split System AC Unit?

. Posted by in • San Antonio
a split system

Keeping your home comfortable with a split system AC shouldn’t feel difficult when the summer heat rolls in. If you are unfamiliar with a split system, it is one of the simplest and most energy-efficient options for cooling and heating indoor spaces. 

What Is a Split System AC: Understanding Its Components

A split system air conditioner is an air conditioning system with two separate parts, called units. Some people even refer to it as a split-unit system.

Every split AC has indoor and outdoor units connected by insulated pipes. The indoor unit is usually mounted on a wall within the space that needs to be cooled, while the outdoor unit is on the exterior of the room or space. Having separate indoor and outdoor units helps improve temperature control and often makes the system more energy efficient.

The indoor and outdoor units work together to cool and regulate the temperature inside your space. Many … Read Full Post »

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What Is a MERV Rating?

. Posted by in • Corpus Christi
a thumbnail from the video featured in this blog

Have you heard of the MERV rating? It’s a system that measures the effectiveness of air filters at removing particles like dust and allergens. It’s helpful for homeowners to understand this rating system so they can choose the right air filter for their home. For more advice on selecting and replacing your air filters, contact an HVAC specialist.

What Is a MERV Rating?

The term MERV rating stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value Rating, and it’s a system for measuring the effectiveness of an air filter in removing particles from the air. MERV ratings range from 1 to 20, indicating filter efficiency levels.

While a higher MERV rating sounds good, it’s not always what you want. The higher your air filter’s rating, the more particles it will catch, including dust, pollen and bacteria. Higher MERV ratings effectively trap smaller particles such as bacteria and allergens. However, a higher rating also means that less … Read Full Post »

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The Benefits of Saltwater Pools vs. Chlorine Pools

. Posted by in • Houston

Saltwater pools vs. chlorine pools

The Benefits of Saltwater Pools vs. Chlorine Pools

When choosing a swimming pool for your home, the debate between a saltwater pool and a chlorine pool often arises. Both saltwater pools and traditional chlorine pools have their unique advantages and cater to different preferences and needs. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the benefits of saltwater pools versus chlorine pools, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.

Saltwater pools are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to create a safe swimming environment with fewer harsh chemicals. These swimming pools use a salt system to produce chlorine through a process called electrolysis. This process involves passing the pool water through a salt generator with electrically charged plates that convert salt molecules into sodium hypochlorite, which acts as a disinfectant.

One of the key benefits of saltwater pools is that … Read Full Post »

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How Often to Clean Your Air Ducts

. Posted by in • Austin
a thumbnail for the video in this blog

Is cleaning your air ducts important? If so, how often should you clean them? Homeowners are often shocked to learn that, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, cleaning your air ducts does not necessarily improve the air quality in your home. In many cases, it can cause more problems than benefits. 

If you’re concerned about the air quality in your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to an HVAC professional.

How Often to Clean Air Ducts

How often should you clean your air ducts? The answer may be surprising: you shouldn’t. According to multiple reports and experts, cleaning your air ducts is unnecessary because it does not improve the air quality in your home. In fact, in some cases, it can do more harm than good.

The dust that adheres to your air ducts tends to cling to the duct’s surface and rarely enters your home. Since it doesn’t interact with your living space … Read Full Post »

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How to Make Lawn Green and Thick

. Posted by in • Bryan-College Station
a green lawn

As soil temperatures warm up and grass blades emerge from their dormant state, making your lawn green and thick becomes a concern for many homeowners.

If you share this dream for your lawn, you’re closer than you think. With the right steps, anyone can achieve a flawless, envy-worthy yard.

How to Make Your Lawn Green and Thick: A Guide to a Healthy Lawn

Developing a healthy lawn is not as difficult as you might think. Here are five simple things you can do:

  • Improve your lawn’s soil
  • Fertilization
  • Mowing properly
  • Overseeding for thickness
  • Irrigation

Let’s dive into each of these a bit more.

Improve Your Lawn’s Soil

Soil holds the nutrients, air and water that grass needs to grow. Sadly, some homeowners do not have soil healthy enough to grow a rich lawn. But luckily, any soil can be improved.

Adding organic material is a solid move. … Read Full Post »

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Trends in Pool Design: What Homeowners Are Choosing

. Posted by in • Houston

As summer approaches, homeowners are increasingly investing in their outdoor space, with swimming pools at the forefront of this trend. With evolving pool trends and advancements in swimming pool design, modern pools offer more than just a place to swim.

Discover the latest swimming pool trends that are captivating homeowners in Houston and learn how top pool builders are shaping the future of luxury pools.

1. Infinity Pools: A Touch of Elegance

Infinity pools continue to be a popular choice for their stunning visual appeal and seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. These luxury pools create the illusion of water extending to the horizon, making them ideal for properties with scenic views.

Incorporating an infinity pool into your backyard can transform your outdoor space into a breathtaking retreat.

2. Natural Pools: Eco-Friendly and Beautiful

Embracing eco-friendly features, natural pools use biological filters and natural elements to … Read Full Post »

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How to Avoid Lawn Damage This Summer

. Posted by in , • Dallas-Fort Worth
The best foundation for a landscaping display is a green lawn

Summer is an excellent time to enjoy the outdoors, but it can also be challenging for your lawn. The heat and dry conditions, coupled with high-traffic outdoor activities, can stress your grass and cause damage, leaving it looking brown and unhealthy. However, homeowners can take several steps to help keep their lawns green and vibrant throughout the season with our summer lawn care tips.

Mow Efficiently

Mowing your lawn correctly can significantly impact its health. During the summer, mow just enough to maintain the optimal height for your warm-season grass. Letting your grass grow too long can be problematic, as well as removing more than one-third of the total leaf blade height at one time could stress your lawn. 

Summer Mowing Recommendations: 

  • Bermuda grass – 1 to 1.5 inches 
  • St. Augustine grass – 2.5 to 3 inches 
  • Read Full Post »
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How Long Can a Generator Run? Understanding Standby Generators

. Posted by in • San Antonio
a generator

When the power goes out, a standby generator can feel like a lifesaver. These machines offer peace of mind during outages, but like any mechanical system, they need a little attention to stay reliable.

A standby generator can run continuously since it typically runs on natural gas. While standby generators are designed to run as long as they have fuel, it is important to remember that they are not invincible. They require regular maintenance to keep working without breaking down. 

Let’s take it one step at a time and answer these questions: How do generators work? How long can a generator run safely? How can you get the most out of them?

How Long Can a Generator Run: Getting the Most Out of Your Generator

If you reside in a place with unreliable power grids, it’s smart to prepare for extended periods without power. Many homeowners choose a standby generator, which offers longer running … Read Full Post »

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The Role of Professional Pool Services in Maintaining Water Quality

. Posted by in • Houston

Professional Pool Service

The Role of Professional Pool Services in Maintaining Water Quality

Owning a swimming pool or hot tub is awesome, offering a refreshing escape on hot days or a cozy retreat during cooler months. But enjoying your pool or spa depends a lot on how clean and safe the water is. Keeping the water clear and safe isn’t just about occasional cleaning or adding chemicals. Professional pool services are key to making sure your pool or hot tub stays in top shape all year long.

At ABC Home & Commercial, we know how tricky it can be to keep your pool or spa’s water quality up to par. We offer a range of services to keep your systems in perfect condition. From routine maintenance to specialized pool repairs, our team is dedicated to providing the best service, so you can relax and enjoy your pool or hot tub without any … Read Full Post »

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Tax Credits for EV Charging at Home

. Posted by in • Austin
tax forms

Electric vehicles (EVs) are a great way to help fight climate change and reduce gas costs. Additionally, the U.S. federal government offers a tax credit for EV charging stations to help make switching to an electric vehicle more affordable.

Let’s go over a few things you should know about this EV incentive.

Tax Credit for EV Charger: What Is It?

The EV charger tax credit is a provision under the U.S. government’s Inflation Reduction Act. The federal government offers these incentives to help lower the cost of installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Known as the 30C Tax Credit or EV Charging Tax Credit, this program provides up to $1,000 per charger for home installations. It covers 30% of the installation costs, including the charger, necessary parts, permits, hardware upgrades and the work of a licensed electrician.

Although this tax credit does not help pay for the electricity used to charge your EV, it … Read Full Post »

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