Heat pumps are gaining in popularity, leaving many homeowners with questions about these innovative HVAC systems. As both a heat source and an air conditioner, a heat pump offers an efficient alternative to traditional separate HVAC systems. Given their higher initial investment, you may be curious about their lifespan and long-term value. Understanding how long you can expect a heat pump to last can help you gauge its value over time and determine if it’s the right investment for your home. What is the Average Lifespan of a Residential Heat Pump? Most sources claim that the average lifespan ..read more

When Was the Last Time You Had HVAC Maintenance?  Did you know that you could be saving on your energy bill, while also extending the lifespan of your HVAC system, all with some minor maintenance? At SM Air, we recommend having your HVAC checked twice a year. In the early spring, you should ensure that you’ve scheduled an inspection for cooling. In the fall, you should schedule a heating inspection and cleaning. This schedule will keep your system running at peak performance and improve its efficiency. Our technicians can also make small repairs to avoid unexpected breakdowns. If you don ..read more

Winter’s chill demands a reliable heating system to keep your home cozy and comfortable. But what happens when your furnace, the core of your home’s heating, starts to show signs of wear or even malfunction? Being vigilant about your furnace’s condition is essential for safety and comfort. Having been a trusted HVAC authority in the San Marcos region since 1986, SM Air offers you a comprehensive guide to understanding and identifying common furnace issues. Our experience and expertise have always been at the core of service to our community because, as our motto goes, “We do more because we c ..read more

While Texas winters might not bring a snow-blanketed landscape, the drop in temperature is a clear sign to transition from cooling to heating. Before you cozy up with hot cocoa and start your holiday countdown, remember the cornerstone of your home’s warmth—your HVAC system. Beyond routine checkups, specific winter-ready adjustments are key to maintaining a toasty abode and achieving energy efficiency when the mercury dips. 1. Winter HVAC Tune-up: Your Defense Against the Cold Why It Matters A winter tune-up goes beyond the standard maintenance—it’s a strategic move to ensure your system can h ..read more

Most homeowners realize that investing in sustainable energy is a worthwhile choice, not only to reduce their energy expenses but to secure a brighter, greener future. Still, high-efficiency HVAC systems can be expensive, making it difficult for many homeowners to cover installation costs. That’s where the Energy Efficient Home Improvement tax credit comes to the rescue. Through this program, homeowners can claim tax credits for qualifying heating and cooling systems they choose to install or replace in their homes. We’ll discuss the Energy Efficient Home Improvement tax credit in more detail ..read more

Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law in August 2022, homeowners can now take advantage of special rebates for qualifying heat pump systems they choose to install or replace in their homes. In this blog, we’ll discuss the available heat pump rebates in further detail, including the specifics of the rebate program, eligibility requirements, and total rebate amounts. What is HEEHRA? The IRA established a special point-of-sale rebate program called the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act (HEEHRA). This 10-year rebate program was specially designed for low- to moderate ..read more

When we think about maintaining a pleasant temperature within our homes, our minds typically wander to the more visible aspects – the air conditioning unit, the thermostats, and the vents. However, there’s an equally essential, albeit less noticeable, component that’s integral to your comfort – the ductwork. So, what exactly is ductwork, and why does it matter so much for your home comfort? Ductwork Explained: Your Home’s Invisible Comfort Highway Think of ductwork as your home’s circulatory system – a network of channels that transports cooled air from your air conditioning system, distribut ..read more

As the summer months blaze, our homes become an oasis of cool and comfort. But what creates this refuge from the scorching temperatures outdoors? It’s none other than a critical player in your home’s air conditioning system: the AC condenser. The AC Condenser: Heart of Your Home’s Cooling System Often perceived as the powerhouse of your home’s cooling system, the AC condenser is indispensable in delivering a comfortable indoor environment. As an integral component of your HVAC system, it diligently transforms refrigerant gas into liquid form — a key process in your air conditioner’s cooling op ..read more

Smart Thermostats: Ushering in a New Era of Home Comfort and Energy Efficiency In today’s era of technological revolution, smart thermostats are steadily becoming an integral part of contemporary households. But what precisely lends them their “smartness,” and how do they benefit you and your family? Let’s delve into the world of smart thermostats and uncover how these ingenious devices can elevate your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Smart Thermostats: Your Home’s Personal Climate Concierge Smart thermostats symbolize a new epoch in temperature control. These cutting-edge devices go be ..read more

Did you know the air in your home is likely five times more polluted than outside air? Since you spend up to 90% of your time indoors, it’s important to consider how poor indoor air quality could impact your family’s health. One of the best ways to improve indoor air quality is to install an award-winning REME HALO or REME HALO-LED whole-home in-duct air purifier. These systems use state-of-the-art technology to purify and remove odors throughout your San Marcos home. Everyone deserves to breathe easier, but REME HALO technology is especially beneficial for people with asthma, allerg ..read more