What is the Best AC Thermostat Setting?

The Best Thermostat Setting for Comfort, Health, and Lower AC Bills

Is there a perfect AC thermostat setting? It is a complicated question, with many facets and some commonsense answers. Let’s look at some basic considerations.

Comfort and Health Considerations

Heating and air conditioning have made a deep impact on modern homes. Air conditioning makes living in the deep south comfortable and healthy. Heating makes the same difference in colder climates. A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system replaces more dangerous and unhealthy heating and cooling options. The “right” AC thermostat decision will be based on temperatures that protect health and comfort.

Family members with health issues may need special consideration concerning temperature
Family members who are very young or very old may need special consideration

Other setting decisions may affect energy efficiency and energy costs, but health concerns may override these decisions.

Comfort is a personal preference. Expect it to vary significantly between family members and for individuals in different seasons of life.
Older homes with poor insulation, abundant drafts, and extra high ceilings may require a different temperature setting, since heat rises and the floors will be colder than normal.

Saving Energy Made Easy: How to Choose the Optimal Thermostat Setting for Your Home

Human tolerance for temperature variations is actually quite broad; we participate in outdoor activities, from skiing to surfing. Energy experts realize that we can find comfort inside using these tolerances and save considerable energy.

The generally accepted range for comfort lies between 680 and 720 Fahrenheit
However, a family might tolerate summertime temperatures indoors in a range from 750 to 780 while the family is awake, and 720 to 750 while sleeping. Temperature settings above 780 during the summer reduce the number of cooling cycles and do not remove sufficient humidity from indoor air.
A family might tolerate wintertime temperatures indoors in the normal range, 680 to 720, but drop the temperature while sleeping to 670 to 600.
Raising the temperature by 100 during the summer while the family is away is considered prudent (remember the 780 threshold). Lowering the temperature by 100 during the winter while the family is away is also considered prudent.

These figures are significant since they save energy and make the whole system work efficiently. Saving energy saves money as well. The savings are measurable. Research shows that a savings of 1-3% savings for every degree of temperature change. This temperature change needs to last for eight hours or more.

All these tolerances and temperature changes seem very complex and hard to handle. However, a modern AC thermostat is programmable; these setting changes can be scheduled automatically according to preference. As you investigate scheduling changes, remember:

Do not ignore health needs to achieve energy savings.
For temperature changes to lower energy bills, the change needs to total eight hours or more. Focus on overnight changes or while the family is away during the day.
Use your programmable AC thermostat to simplify the desired setting changes at the appropriate times.

Maximize Savings: Get the Most from Your AC Thermostat by Scheduling Pro AC Maintenance

Optimal comfort and efficiency start with finding the perfect AC thermostat setting, but they are maintained by a healthy HVAC system. Before adjusting your programmable thermostat for seasonal savings, ensure your unit is ready to handle the varying demands without strain. Call R.M. Mullinix AC today to schedule a professional maintenance appointment. Our experts will inspect your system and AC thermostat settings to ensure it runs efficiently and reliably, giving you the best results from your chosen settings.

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC maintenance College Station, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.

October 15, 2025

The Simple Truth About Regular AC Maintenance

What Professional AC Maintenance Really Does to Protect Your System

Your air conditioner works incredibly hard each summer. Normal comfort demands an average of 2 to 3 cooling cycles per hour. That means your air conditioner will experience between 9,000 and 13,000 cycles per season. Admittedly, this is plenty of work, and any hard-working mechanical system needs AC maintenance. For this reason, it is not surprising that everyone involved with the air conditioning industry calls for regular inspection and cleaning.

5 Major Benefits of Professional AC Maintenance

Isn’t your air conditioner pretty stable? What could possibly happen that would require professional help?

The air filter needs to be changed. A blower motor pushes cool air into the home and, at the same time, draws it back through an air filter and through the air handler chamber. While the air in your home seems clean, the air filter reveals that it contains dust, pollen, and dander. After a few months, the entire surface of the filter will be covered with these airborne particles. This covering will eventually restrict airflow and hamper the cooling process, so it is important to change the filter regularly, about every three months.
The air conditioner has two coils: the condenser coil outdoors and the evaporator coil indoors. The coil is a collection of tubes, covered with very thin aluminum fins, allowing the ready transfer of heat. Dust, pollen, and other airborne particles collect on the tubes and fins and act like an insulating blanket, reducing the amount of heat that transfers. A garden hose and a gentle cleanser will wash these particles away. The evaporator coil gets cold. Hot, moist air is blown across the coil, and the excess moisture condenses, drips down to a pan, and is drained away. Cool, dark, wet surfaces promote the growth of algae, and the algae can clog the drain line, so the technician will make sure to clean the drain pan and drain line.
The whole system relies on a refrigerant compound. When it is compressed and the pressure is suddenly released, the compound gets cold, the source of the cooling. This compound is constantly under pressure, and if any of it leaks, the whole system struggles. The struggling system will work so hard, it will eventually fail catastrophically.
The whole air conditioning system is powered and controlled by complex sensors, switches, and control mechanisms. Each part relies upon other parts, so if one switch is weakened, it stresses surrounding components. An inspection with an electrical tester can uncover any weakness. The main switch for the air conditioner is called a thermostat. The technician will replace the batteries in the thermostat and calibrate it as needed.
Other parts may exhibit general wear. The blower motor is usually moved by a belt, and the belt may show signs of wear. Connections may become loose. Ductwork may vibrate and work loose, and leak air. A trained technician will look closely at the system and make these small repairs.

What are the results of an inspection and AC maintenance visit?

The whole air conditioning system will cool better, remove more humidity, and clean more particles, making the home more comfortable.
The air conditioning process will require less energy and cost less to operate
Small issues will be caught before they become major (and expensive) problems
Regular AC maintenance generally adds five years of useful life to an air conditioner, which is an additional cost-saving

Why Professional AC Maintenance is a Must

Give your hard-working AC the essential care it deserves to keep it running efficiently and reliably. Stop small issues like coil dirt and algae before they cause catastrophic system failure and huge repair bills. Scheduling your professional AC maintenance visit now will help you restore efficiency, lower your energy costs, and add years of life to your investment. Call our team today to book your inspection and ensure worry-free cooling all season long!

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC maintenance College Station, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.

September 29, 2025

AC Repair vs. AC Replacement

The Cost of AC Repair vs. AC Replacement: A Fall Checklist

With summer in the rearview mirror, it is time for cooler temperatures and pumpkin patch fun. The demand for residential air conditioners has somewhat lessened. It is a good time to assess the strength or weakness of an air conditioner with an inspection.

Occasionally, a routine inspection will uncover the need for AC repair, and the thought can be a little concerning. How much will the AC repair cost? How long will it take? It would be nice to have a few clues to help overcome the stress one might feel over facing necessary AC repair. To be clear, the cost of any repair can only be determined after a careful diagnosis from trained AC technicians. But here are some significant factors that affect the cost of your AC repair.

When to Choose AC Repair over AC Replacement

Timing is everything.

Is the system still under warranty? A manufacturer’s limited warranties might depend on maintenance records, so make sure to read the fine print.
An emergency AC repair made during an extended heatwave will usually cost more than a repair made during normal working hours. Repairs that require evening or weekend hours will result in evening or weekend labor rates.
If your air conditioner is inspected and maintained regularly, the chance of catching a minor issue early is much higher. If the minor issue is missed, it can weaken other parts related to the problem component.
For service call information, it is as easy as making a phone call; there is usually a minimum for the call and an hourly labor rate that is disclosed. Expect the hourly rate on evenings and weekends to be higher than the normal rate.

Component Costs

The complexity of the repair will greatly impact the cost. Obviously, a minor repair with inexpensive component replacement will cost less than replacing a major component.
The age of an air conditioner is an important factor in determining component costs. AC Repair costs will also determine whether repair or replacement is more cost-effective.
The average air conditioner lasts between 15 and 20 years. A system that is approaching or exceeding this timeline might be difficult to repair, and the cost might be extremely high. Parts might be rare or unavailable for older systems.
The age of the system also affects the refrigerant the system is designed to use. Engineers and the US Environmental Protection Agency are constantly searching for more efficient AND more eco-friendly refrigerant gases, since older versions negatively impact the ozone layer. Older refrigerants have been banned, and the available supply will be extremely expensive. Repairs that require the removal and replacement of such refrigerants can be cost-prohibitive.

Mullinix AC Repair Can Help Evaluate AC Repair versus AC Replacement

Evaluating the cost of AC repair versus replacement requires a careful diagnosis from a professional. Key factors include the age of the system, whether it is still under warranty, and the cost and availability of replacement parts and refrigerants. Ultimately, for older systems, a replacement may be more cost-effective due to high repair costs and improved efficiency of new units.

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and AC maintenance in College Station, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.

September 18, 2025

The Surprising Benefits of Fall AC Maintenance

From Hot to Healthy: How Proper AC Maintenance Improves Your Home’s Comfort Level

While summertime is fun and full of adventure, it is also hot and humid. While we can accommodate the heat, finding relief in air-conditioned spaces is essential for health and comfort. This reminds us that air conditioning systems work very hard for a long cooling season. The average AC system in our region performs more than 12,000 cooling cycles per year. In a few weeks, the same system will begin the heating season, another period of hard work, with a similar number of heating cycles. Without proper care, a cooling and heating system will result in some very negative outcomes and need AC maintenance.

Your AC Maintenance Checklist

Proper AC maintenance of your system will result in very positive outcomes. Regular AC maintenance will:

Extend the life of any air conditioning and heating system. Maintenance usually uncovers weakening and failing parts and makes adjustments along the way. Maintenance creates a kind of boost for the system. Regular maintenance can reduce the number and intensity of repairs.
Replace the air filter, a crucial improvement for the entire system. A dirty, clogged filter will reduce the airflow through the unit, reduce the system’s efficiency, and negatively impact the indoor air quality. This is an extremely important step, and it should be repeated quarterly.
Constant use will reduce the energy efficiency of these systems, but regular maintenance will give efficiency a boost as well. The air conditioner might not regain the efficiency of a new system, but it will make a measurable difference, discernible by comparing utility bills year-to-year.
Maintenance improves comfort and health for the entire family. Improved efficiency reduces the possibility of hot spots or difficulty keeping up with extreme temperatures. It also improves indoor air quality, keeping family members healthier.

What a Professional Looks for During an AC Maintenance Inspection

What is involved with an AC maintenance inspection that is so important to the air conditioning and heating system? Each component is inspected individually.

The electrical system is inspected thoroughly. Connections are tightened and inspected. Some control mechanisms, such as capacitors and sensors, weaken over time and jeopardize proper function. Localized weakness can create a cascade of weakening with other electrical parts.
The ultimate ON/OFF switch, the thermostat is battery-powered, and the batteries need to be replaced regularly. Occasionally, a thermostat will need to be recalibrated to ensure the timeliness of heating and cooling cycles.
The refrigerant level will be checked, a very important component of air conditioners and heat pumps. The pressure level of refrigerant gas must be maintained within a narrow range. Loss of pressure will reduce or curtail the cooling/heating function. It can also cause major damage to vital (and expensive) components.
There are two major components that need to be cleaned annually: the outdoor condenser unit and the indoor evaporator coil.
- The refrigerant has collected heat from inside the home and needs to release heat into the atmosphere. The condenser walls are composed of tubes and fins, designed to conduct heat energy. Pollen, dust, dirt, and debris collect on the tubes and fins, preventing the ready transfer of heat. The reverse is true indoors.
- The refrigerant inside is cool, attracting that heat to be carried outdoors. Dirt, dust, dander, and other airborne particles collect on this coil and reduce the transfer of heat. Simple soap and water are generally enough to clean the offending particles away, a necessary task in AC maintenance.
There are a few moving parts with an air conditioner, but our technician can inspect the blower motor belt and lube accessible bearings.

Prepare for Fall with AC Maintenance From Mullinix AC and Heating

Investing in professional AC maintenance is the single best way to protect your home’s comfort system and your family’s well-being. By addressing small issues before they become major problems, you extend the life of your unit, improve its energy efficiency, and ensure a healthier living environment. Make fall AC maintenance from Mullinix AC and Heating a non-negotiable part of your annual routine and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a system that works as hard as you do.

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC maintenance College Station, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.

August 26, 2025

Essential AC Repair Tips for Common Issues

AC Repair: 3 Common Problems When Your Air Conditioner Blows Hot Air

It might happen gradually, over several months, with very few indications that demand attention. Or it might happen suddenly, overnight, or during the day while everyone is away. When it happens, the home, which should be as cool as ever, is very hot and very humid. The sudden turn of events can be quite frustrating and confusing. After the initial shock, it is time to take action and solve the problem. Are you ready for this?

First, find the air conditioner contractor that seems the most natural to you. That might be:

The contractor whom you use the most often, for maintenance and repairs
The contractor whose name and contact information is attached to the air conditioner/furnace components

Before making a call, do some inspections and make some observations.

Here are the most common issues that cause air conditioning systems to continue to function but blow hot air.

AC Repair 1: A Clogged Air Filter

Even though air filters are mentioned often by manufacturers, contractors, and the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners continue to neglect this essential action. Here is why air filters are so important.

Just beyond the air filter is a chamber where cold refrigerant gas meets the hot, humid air from the home combine. The humidity condenses on the tubes and drains away. The air quickly cools and is transported back into the home—mission accomplished.
Air filters are very efficient, removing dust, pollen, and dander with every cooling and heating cycle. When the filter is not changed regularly, at least every three months, sufficient dust collects, enough to reduce the air flow through the air conditioner.
When insufficient air passes into this chamber, it produces great stress on the whole system. The refrigerant in the tubes remains cold, but cooling does not move into the home.

Replace the air filter and observe whether cool air moves into the home. Remember to change the air filter on a quarterly basis.

AC Repair 2: Refrigerant Leak

This is a more complex problem. The refrigerant is a chemical formula that readily changes from gas to liquid, and in the process readily accepts, transports, and releases heat. This refrigerant is always under pressure, whether as a gas or liquid. The slightest flaw in the pipe or pinhole in the soldered joints can allow the refrigerant to leak out quite quickly. Evidence of a refrigerant leak includes:

The loss of refrigerant often causes ice to develop around the tubes containing refrigerant
Ice can develop inside or outside
If you miss the ice, it will melt away. If the ice melts indoors, you might observe a watery mess, perhaps enough to cause some localized water damage.

It takes training and certification to handle refrigerants, so there is nothing a homeowner can do.

AC Repair 3: A Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat, located on an inside wall away from the sun, can cause problems that end cooling from the air conditioner. Here are some things to observe.

Look at the thermostat face for a “Low Battery” indication
Look at the thermostat face for the temperature; it will be the largest number on the thermostat. It will probably be uncomfortably high for the inside of a home.
Look at the thermostat face for the temperature setting. This setting should be much lower than the indicated temperature. If the setting is too high, move it to a lower setting and observe whether the temperature returns to normal—cool.
Look at the thermostat face to ensure the thermostat is set on COOL.

Before calling the AC repair technician, determine the age of the system components. This can be determined by the model/serial number plate. Knowing the age of the system will be very helpful for anyone making an AC repair.

When your AC is blowing hot air, the problem could be a simple fix or a serious issue. This article breaks down three common problems—a clogged air filter, a refrigerant leak, or a faulty thermostat—that can stop your system from cooling. By understanding these issues, you can troubleshoot the problem yourself or be more informed when you call for professional AC repair.

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC repair College Station services, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.

August 21, 2025

Understanding Your HVAC System Summer Stress

Is Your HVAC System Failing? Spotting the Signs of Trouble Before It’s Too Late

To paraphrase Thomas Paine, “these are the times that try” your HVAC system; months of very hot, humid days, interspersed with a few weeks of heat waves with extremely hot temperatures. Such extreme temperatures put stress on your HVAC system and expose any weakness in key components. It is no wonder that AC repairs and AC replacements peak during the months of July and August.

Common HVAC System Repairs Needed During These Times

Air Filter Changes. The efficiency of air filters in cleaning indoor air is also problematic. When the filter becomes completely covered, it restricts the airflow that can pass through. Airflow is very necessary for air conditioning, so when the amount of air is reduced, it reduces the amount of cooling an air conditioner can achieve. This becomes very evident during hot summer days. Make sure to change the air filter quarterly.

Evaporator Buildup. The air passes through the air filter and across the evaporator coil. The evaporator coil is very cold, so excess humidity from indoor air begins to condense on the coil and drip onto the drain pan, and is allowed to drain away. Any dust or pollen that passes the air filter is likely to collect on the evaporator coils and create a wet mess. The wet dust and pollen inhibit the transfer of the heat from the air and the cool from the coils. The mess needs to be cleaned away.

Condenser Coating. The outdoor air conditioner component is called the condenser unit. While the walls appear solid, they are actually a network of tubes and fins. A large, central fan draws air through the network to cool the refrigerant gas inside. The network acts as another air filter, since pollen, dust, and debris get captured on the tubes and fins. These things need to be washed off of the condenser walls to ensure adequate cooling can take place.

Electrical Weakness. An air conditioner is controlled by very sensitive sensors and switching devices. Common air conditioner use wears these control mechanisms. Eventually, the wear weakens their ability to sense and direct electrical flow. Component weakness reduces an air conditioner’s effectiveness when the family needs air conditioning the most. Special tools and a trained individual is required to detect problems with air conditioner controls.

Some problems that may occur with your air conditioner:

Poor airflow
Smell air coming from vents and excessive dust
Poor cooling performance
Loud or unusual noises
Water leaking from the air handler cabinet
Ice buildup on indoor or outdoor components
Hot spots that don’t get enough cooling
Water leaking from the air conditioner

Call our trusted technicians to inspect and make repairs. Do not delay, since the demand for AC repairs may mean waiting for an available technician. Remember, these problems will not go away by themselves and can get worse over time.

Protect Your Comfort and Your Wallet: Essential Care for Your HVAC System by Mullinix AC

It’s clear that your HVAC system is under immense pressure during peak summer heat, and ignoring the warning signs can lead to major, costly breakdowns. By being proactive and addressing common issues like dirty filters and coils, you can prevent small problems from becoming emergencies. Don’t wait until your system fails completely; a timely repair can restore your home’s comfort and keep your HVAC system running efficiently all season long.

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC repair College Station services, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.

July 25, 2025

Choose Mullinix AC for Expert AC Repair

From Panic to Plan: Navigating Your Next AC Repair

Coming home from work or waking up to a failing HVAC system can leave a homeowner with several moments of initial panic and frustration. The most likely outcome might appear to be a lengthy, uncomfortable wait and/or an expensive AC repair or AC replacement. After the initial adrenaline rush passes, take a deep breath and begin an investigation of potential problems. Then, you can determine solutions and the best way forward.

Recognizing Potential AC Repair Issues

If the system has no power and will not come on, check for these possibilities first:

Check the circuit breaker panel. You have probably needed to access this panel before. Identify the breaker marked Air Conditioner or AC. Is it in the ON or OFF position? If it is in the OFF position, turn it completely OFF and then turn it completely ON. Wait a few minutes to let the system recover; a cooling cycle should begin in the first five minutes.
If the circuit flips OFF again, do not flip it again. The breaker is a safety device, and something dangerous is causing the breaker to trip.
If the circuit is ON, but the air conditioner is not completing cooling cycles, check the thermostat. The thermostat is the ON/OFF switch, using a temperature sensor to call for cooling. Is the setting turned to COOL? Is the temperature setting at least 5 degrees warmer than the room temperature? After changing the settings, a cooling cycle should begin in about five minutes.
If neither of these solutions restores cooling, place a call to your trusted AC contractor.

If the system has power but is not producing cool air, look for these problems first:

Check the air filter. A dirty filter can diminish airflow into the air handler cabinet, reducing the cooling capacity of the system. If the filter is dirty, replace it, wait five minutes, and monitor the thermostat for any changes.
If the air filter does not appear to be the issue, begin making observations. Is the system buzzing loudly? Notice the location, turn the system OFF, and do not touch anything. This prevents further damage to the air conditioner and any harm to you.
Observe any pooling water or ice built up on the tubing; don’t forget to check the condenser unit outdoors, the air handler indoors, and the tubing that travels between the two components. If this tubing is covered by wall or ceiling, look for any wet spots in the drywall. Do not try to remove the ice, since this can cause further damage. Dry up any standing or leaking water to prevent further damage to home surfaces. Turn the system off and call a technician.

Further AC Repair Observations

There are some basic bits of information that can help you and your AC repair technician.

Determine the brand(s) of the major components. The condenser unit and the air handler portions of the air conditioning system are usually manufactured by the same company, but strange things happen. Document what you see.
Find the Serial Number/Model Number plate on components, specifically the condenser and indoor cabinets. Armed with this information, you can determine the year of manufacture and probably the size of the equipment. The year of manufacture can help determine how long the system has been in service. The size will be expressed in Tonnage measurement, which seems odd, since the equipment is made of aluminum and is generally quite lightweight. However, these figures will be very helpful to the technician who services, repairs, or replaces your equipment.

Mullinix AC: Your Go-To for Expert AC Repair in College Station

When faced with an unexpected AC repair issue, a calm and methodical approach to troubleshooting can often identify simple fixes. However, for complex problems or when safety is a concern, professional AC repair is essential to prevent further damage and restore your comfort. For reliable and expert AC repair services in the College Station, Texas area, trust the experienced technicians at Mullinix AC to get your system running smoothly again.

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC repair College Station services, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.

July 23, 2025

Homeowner’s Guide to AC Replacement

AC Replacement: Key Factors to Consider for Your Family Budget

Making decisions that affect the family budget requires some very necessary skills, especially decisions that concern big-ticket items. For most families, replacing the air conditioner/furnace system would be considered a big-ticket purchase. The AC replacement decision requires some significant research to ensure that replacing the system is done at just the right time. Research the following:

The Age of the Existing System

Why is this important?

The typical air conditioner system has a useful life of between 15 and 20 years, while the typical furnace lasts about 20 years. If your system is older than this, it is running on borrowed time.
The typical air conditioner experiences a pretty predictable schedule of problems with performance, requiring similar repairs and replacements. The gaps between the repairs may vary, but the progression is very familiar to experienced technicians.
A common repair is a very small leak that allows the refrigerant gas to escape. If the pressure begins to drop, all the gas will escape, since it is under pressure. Replacing the refrigerant used to be an easy fix, but that is not currently the case. The US Environmental Protection Agency has been researching/replacing the formula of refrigerant gases regularly, seeking a solution that is environmentally friendly. Several gases are no longer being manufactured, so the available quantities are extremely limited. This makes refrigerant gas replacement a very expensive proposition. The age of your existing system will determine which refrigerant was used and the availability of the gas needed for replacement.

A homeowner can find the approximate age of air conditioning components by finding the serial/model number plate. The manufacturer’s website should identify the year the component was manufactured, which is close to the installation year. This will also identify the refrigerant gas used and the size/capacity of the unit.

Assess the Performance and Efficiency of the Existing System

Does the air conditioner struggle to keep the space cool during normal summer heat? This will become very apparent during those heat waves that come each summer, but an air conditioner that is performing poorly will struggle year-round.
Does the air conditioner struggle to remove humidity? Are surfaces, including human skin, sticky?
Does the electric bill indicate that the system is working harder than it should? Find this out by comparing the bills for July over the last three years. Don’t pay much attention to the total; look at the energy-use over successive years. The price of energy has increased, but if the energy use has risen without the introduction of a new high-use device to the home, the air conditioner may be using more energy than necessary to keep up with cooling needs.
Has the amount of dust increased? A sure sign of poor air conditioner performance is poor indoor air quality.

Compare Repair Bills on the Existing System

Collect any repair bills that have accumulated and check:

All repairs over the last few years. No single repair bill might be considered excessive, but the total of the repairs might be higher than desired.
Have you replaced the same components several times? This is part of the predictable progression of an aging system.
Are you facing the replacement of a major (expensive) component? The total for replacement/repair might be high enough to rival the cost of replacement of the entire system.

Is it Time? Decoding the AC Replacement Decision

Deciding when to replace your AC and furnace system is a significant financial consideration for any family. By carefully assessing your existing system’s age, performance, efficiency, and accumulated repair costs, you can make an informed decision that protects your budget and ensures your home’s comfort. When it’s time to explore your AC replacement options or if you need expert advice on your HVAC system, don’t hesitate to reach out. For reliable AC Replacement in College Station and guidance on AC replacement, contact R.M. Mullinix today.

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC replacement College Station services, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.

June 26, 2025

AC Repair College Station

AC Repair College Station: Understanding Refrigerant Leaks

One of the most damaging and costly air conditioner malfunctions is the loss of refrigerant. A tiny leak is all it takes to cause the loss of all the refrigerant. Here is how it happens:

The air conditioner compressor squeezes the refrigerant gas to about 400 psi. This causes the gas to heat very quickly.
When the pressure is released, the gas cools rapidly. Warm air from the home blows over the tubes containing cool gas, resulting in cooler air returning to the home.
However, when gas begins to leak from the closed loop of refrigerant, the compressor motor continues to squeeze the gas. Since the amount of gas is lessened, the compressed gas becomes much hotter, hot enough to damage the compressor motor. When the compressed gas is released, it becomes much colder than normal, causing ice to form from water that typically condenses and drains away.
Not only will replacing the compressor motor be very expensive, but the refrigerant gas is also very expensive. In some cases, the gas may not be available at all, requiring the entire system to be replaced.

A “tiny leak” can have major consequences, so it is important to make repairs before the small problem becomes a large problem.

AC Repair College Station: What Causes Refrigerant Leaks?

There are three major causes for refrigerant leaks.

Poor or improper installation. These problems usually happen soon after installation and the loss of refrigerant is often rapid.
Vibration or movement. When objects impact the tubes that carry refrigerant, it can loosen joints or damage the tubes. Movement can create obvious damage, but it can also create microfractures at the joints.
After years of air conditioner use, wear and tear can create tiny leaks in joints or in components that carry the refrigerant, such as the evaporator coil or condenser.

AC Repair College Station: Best Practices to Prevent Leaks

The two best steps to avoid refrigerant leaks are:

Purchase high-quality equipment and insist on high-quality installers. This makes sure the installation is done correctly.
Schedule regular (annual) maintenance by trained professionals. When a leak is detected early, it can be repaired before the loss damages major components.

AC Repair College Station: Repairing A Refrigerant Leak

When a tiny leak is detected in time to prevent the loss of all of the refrigerant, the repair steps are rather simple and predictable.

The leak is detected when a drop in refrigerant gas pressure is noticed during regular maintenance or repair.
The location of the leak must be found. If the gas is still leaking, the process is easier. If all the gas has leaked away, finding the leak is a little harder.
The leak can be repaired with a special sealant, a patch to the tubing, or the repair of soldered joints. Leaks in components, such as the condenser or evaporator coil might be difficult.
When the technician is assured that all leaks have been repaired, the system is vacuumed to ensure gas purity, and the system is recharged with fresh gas.

AC Repair College Station: Keep Your Cool by Preventing Costly Leaks

A refrigerant leak might start small, but as we’ve seen, it can snowball into a major headache for your AC system and your wallet. From damaging your compressor motor to necessitating a complete system replacement, the consequences of ignoring a leak can be severe. The best defense against costly refrigerant leaks is a good offense: investing in high-quality equipment and installation and, crucially, scheduling annual professional AC maintenance. Early detection can save you from a complete system breakdown and ensure your College Station home stays cool and comfortable.

Don’t wait for your AC to completely give up; proactive AC Repair College Station care is the key to a long-lasting and efficient cooling system.

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC Repair College Station services, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page.

June 15, 2025

AC’s Predictable Path: From Installation to AC Replacement

The Lifecycle of Your AC: What to Expect from Installation to AC Replacement

When writing about air conditioning systems, we often misuse terms such as “life cycle” or “useful life.” These are mechanical systems and, therefore are not alive. But air conditioners last for 15 to 20 years, and every system will follow a predictable pattern of use, wear, and decline. Therefore, the terms bring to mind similarities to actual living things, and help to illustrate a cycle of use duplicated with every AC system. It looks like this:

AC Installation

Whether an air conditioner is being installed in a new home or is replacing an existing system, it starts out in the same way.

The system uses the very best, state-of-the-art technology available at the price the homeowner is willing to pay.
It uses the most ecologically friendly refrigerant available on the market.
The cooling needs differ when the outdoor temperature is at 100 degrees rather than 80 degrees. Technology is available to increase the system’s efficiency, such as variable speed motors.
Homeowners can choose the efficiency level of the new system. Air conditioner efficiency is rated using a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating or SEER. New systems are available with SEER ratings between 15 and 22: high-efficiency systems will cost a little more.

Every air conditioner is designed to perform four basic functions: cooling, removing humidity, moving air to keep it fresh, and filtering out contaminants.

Years One to Seven

These are the most energy and cost-effective years for any air conditioning system, with very few problems or repairs needed. A few things about this stretch that are similar with every system include:

Micro wear and tear happen every time a cooling cycle happens. This is happening to both mechanical parts, like the blower motor, and electrical parts, like switches and capacitors.
All air conditioning systems need regular maintenance and quarterly air filter changes. Many of the maintenance functions are cleaning the collection of contaminants from vulnerable parts. They also detect significant wear and allow early replacement of a component before trouble arises. Significant repairs are very rare during these early years.

These simple steps give the best possible chance of lasting for years to come.

Years Eight to Fourteen

All the features of the first seven years continue into the second seven years. (There is nothing significant about the number of years, just a generalization.) However,

More years mean more cooling cycles, and more cooling cycles mean more wear and tear
The aging system will continue to lose efficiency. This might be discernible on the utility bill.
The aging system will begin to perform poorly, creating hot spots that never seem to get cool.
During this period, minor repairs are much more likely
During this period, a major repair is also much more likely.
Wear can cause a cascade effect. If one electrical part weakens, it can put stress on other parts upstream or downstream from the weak one.

Years Fifteen and Beyond and Leading to AC Replacement

All the features of the first fourteen years continue into the final years. (Again, there is nothing significant about the number of years, just a generalization.) Many factors enter a decision for AC replacement, but age is the most important.

Wear and tear will eventually lead to a decrease in efficiency and performance.
A major repair will be needed, and the technician will reveal the cost of repairs to rival the cost of replacement. At this stage, the decision must be made to repair an expensive part on an old air conditioning system or replace the entire system with a new, efficient, state-of-the-art air conditioner.

Every air conditioning system is somewhere on this cycle.

Understanding your AC system’s lifecycle is a powerful tool for any homeowner, especially in College Station’s demanding climate. By recognizing the predictable patterns of wear and decline, you can move from reactive repairs to proactive planning. Staying on top of regular maintenance and filter changes can extend your unit’s healthy years, but eventually, factors like decreasing efficiency, poor performance, and costly major repairs will signal it’s time for an AC replacement. Being prepared for this transition will not only save you money and headaches in the long run but also ensure your home remains a cool, comfortable, and healthy sanctuary for years to come.

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our College Station AC replacement services, schedule an appointment or visit our AC repair and maintenance information page