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Frequently Asked Questions

Air Conditioning & Heating

Common questions about HVAC systems, repairs, maintenance, and replacements in DFW

Why is my AC running but not cooling my house?

Several issues can cause an AC to run without cooling effectively:

  • Dirty air filter — A clogged filter restricts airflow and reduces cooling capacity. Check and replace your filter monthly during summer.
  • Low refrigerant — If your system is low on refrigerant (often due to a leak), it can’t absorb heat properly. This requires professional repair.
  • Frozen evaporator coil — Restricted airflow or low refrigerant can cause ice buildup on the coil, blocking cooling.
  • Dirty condenser coils — Your outdoor unit needs clear airflow. Clean debris and trim vegetation at least 2 feet around the unit.
  • Faulty compressor — The compressor is the heart of your AC. If it’s failing, you’ll notice reduced cooling and higher energy bills.

If changing the filter doesn’t help, schedule an AC repair with our certified technicians for proper diagnosis.

Several issues can cause an AC to run without cooling effectively:

  • Dirty air filter — A clogged filter restricts airflow and reduces cooling capacity. Check and replace your filter monthly during summer.
  • Low refrigerant — If your system is low on refrigerant (often due to a leak), it can’t absorb heat properly. This requires professional repair.
  • Frozen evaporator coil — Restricted airflow or low refrigerant can cause ice buildup on the coil, blocking cooling.
  • Dirty condenser coils — Your outdoor unit needs clear airflow. Clean debris and trim vegetation at least 2 feet around the unit.
  • Faulty compressor — The compressor is the heart of your AC. If it’s failing, you’ll notice reduced cooling and higher energy bills.

If changing the filter doesn’t help, schedule an AC repair with our certified technicians for proper diagnosis.

A new AC system in DFW typically ranges from $5,500 to $15,000+ depending on several factors:

  • System size — Measured in tons (most homes need 2-5 tons). Larger homes require larger systems.
  • SEER rating — Higher efficiency (16-26 SEER) costs more upfront but saves significantly on energy bills.
  • System type — Standard split system, heat pump, or ductless mini-split each have different price points.
  • Installation complexity — Ductwork modifications, electrical upgrades, or difficult access can affect cost.
  • Brand and features — Premium brands like Trane offer better warranties and features.

We offer flexible financing options with approved credit. Use our SEER Savings Calculator to see how much a high-efficiency system could save you.

In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, expect these lifespans with proper maintenance:

  • Air conditioner — 12-15 years (Texas heat is harder on systems than cooler climates)
  • Heat pump — 10-15 years
  • Gas furnace — 15-20 years
  • Ductless mini-split — 15-20 years

Signs it’s time to replace:

  • System is 10+ years old and needs frequent repairs
  • Repair costs exceed 50% of a new system
  • Energy bills keep increasing despite maintenance
  • Uneven temperatures or humidity problems
  • System uses R-22 refrigerant (phased out, very expensive)

Not sure if you should repair or replace? Contact us for an honest assessment.

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures cooling efficiency. Higher SEER = lower energy bills. Here’s how to choose:

  • 14-15 SEER — Minimum federal standard. Good budget option, but higher operating costs.
  • 16-18 SEER — Sweet spot for most DFW homeowners. Balances upfront cost with long-term savings.
  • 19-21 SEER — Premium efficiency. Best for larger homes or those planning to stay 10+ years.
  • 22+ SEER — Maximum efficiency. Variable-speed technology for ultimate comfort and savings.

In Texas, where AC runs 6-8 months per year, a higher SEER system pays for itself faster than in cooler states. A 16 SEER system uses about 15% less energy than a 14 SEER.

Try our SEER Savings Calculator to see your potential savings.

Filter change frequency depends on the type and your household:

  • 1″ fiberglass filters — Every 30 days
  • 1″ pleated filters — Every 60-90 days
  • 4-5″ media filters — Every 6-12 months
  • HEPA filters — Per manufacturer guidelines (usually 6-12 months)

Change more frequently if you have:

  • Pets (pet dander clogs filters faster)
  • Allergies or asthma
  • Recent construction or remodeling
  • Multiple occupants

A dirty filter is the #1 cause of HVAC breakdowns. It restricts airflow, strains the system, and can lead to frozen coils or compressor failure.

Need a new filter? Shop our selection of high-quality air filters for convenient delivery right to your door.

For optimal comfort and savings in DFW:

  • Summer (when home) — 78°F is the sweet spot. Each degree lower increases energy use by 3-5%.
  • Summer (away/sleeping) — Set 4-7° higher when away for 8+ hours.
  • Winter (when home) — 68°F is comfortable for most people.
  • Winter (away/sleeping) — Set 8-10° lower when away or sleeping.

Pro tips:

  • A programmable or smart thermostat can save 10-15% on energy bills automatically.
  • Don’t set the thermostat super low thinking it’ll cool faster—it won’t, it’ll just run longer.
  • Use ceiling fans to feel 4°F cooler without lowering the thermostat.

Both work well in DFW’s mild winters. Here’s how to decide:

Heat Pump Pros:

  • More energy-efficient for heating in mild climates (above 35°F)
  • One system for both heating and cooling
  • No combustion = no carbon monoxide risk
  • Lower operating costs in most Texas weather

Gas Furnace Pros:

  • Produces warmer air (120-140°F vs. 90-100°F from heat pump)
  • Better performance during rare deep freezes
  • Lower upfront cost
  • Works during power outages (with generator)

Our recommendation: For most DFW homes, a heat pump is the better choice due to our mild winters. For homes with existing gas lines and older homeowners who prefer warmer air, a gas furnace may be preferred.

Duct cleaning is recommended in these situations:

  • Visible mold growth inside ducts or on components
  • Pest infestation (rodents, insects) in ductwork
  • Excessive dust/debris visible in registers or ducts
  • After major renovation that generated significant dust
  • Moving into a new home (you don’t know its history)
  • Unexplained respiratory issues that improve away from home

For routine maintenance, changing your filter regularly and sealing duct leaks often provides better ROI than periodic cleaning. We can inspect your ducts and give you an honest recommendation.

Yes! We provide 24/7 emergency HVAC service throughout Dallas-Fort Worth. When your AC fails during a 100°F Texas summer day, you can’t wait until Monday.

What to expect:

  • Live answer when you call (972) 466-1917
  • Same-day service for emergencies
  • Upfront pricing before work begins
  • Fully stocked trucks for most repairs

Cool Club members receive priority scheduling and no after-hours fees, saving you money when emergencies happen.

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Plumbing

Answers to common plumbing questions for DFW homeowners

 
How long does a water heater last?

Water heater lifespan varies by type:

  • Tank water heater — 8-12 years
  • Tankless water heater — 15-20 years
  • Heat pump water heater — 12-15 years

Signs your water heater needs replacement:

  • Age 10+ years (check the serial number for manufacture date)
  • Rusty water from hot water taps
  • Rumbling or popping noises
  • Puddles around the base
  • Not enough hot water or inconsistent temperatures

Annual flushing extends tank water heater life by removing sediment buildup. Our water heater services include maintenance, repair, and replacement.

Tankless water heaters cost more upfront but offer significant benefits:

Pros:

  • Endless hot water on demand
  • 20-30% more energy efficient
  • Lasts 15-20 years (vs. 8-12 for tank)
  • Compact size saves space
  • No risk of tank failure flooding

Considerations:

  • Higher upfront cost ($2,500-4,500 installed)
  • May require gas line or electrical upgrades
  • Flow rate limits simultaneous hot water use

Best for: Larger families, homes with high hot water demand, or those planning to stay 10+ years to realize energy savings.

DIY methods for minor clogs:

  • Plunger — Works for sinks, tubs, and toilets. Create a tight seal and use firm, consistent pressure.
  • Baking soda + vinegar — Pour 1/2 cup each, wait 30 minutes, flush with hot water. Good for maintenance.
  • Drain snake — Manual auger for stubborn clogs in sinks and tubs.

What NOT to do:

  • Avoid chemical drain cleaners — They can damage pipes, especially older ones, and are harmful to plumbing systems.
  • Don’t use a garden hose — Risk of backflow contamination.

Call a professional when:

  • Multiple drains are slow simultaneously (main line issue)
  • Sewage smell from drains
  • Water backing up in other fixtures
  • DIY methods don’t work

Our drain services include camera inspection and hydro jetting for stubborn blockages.

Low water pressure can result from several causes:

  • Clogged aerators — Mineral buildup in faucet screens. Easy DIY fix—unscrew and clean or replace.
  • Partially closed valve — Check that main shutoff and water meter valves are fully open.
  • Pressure regulator failure — If pressure dropped suddenly throughout the house, the regulator may need replacement.
  • Corroded pipes — Older galvanized steel pipes corrode internally, restricting flow. May require repiping.
  • Water leak — A hidden leak diverts water. Check your water meter with all fixtures off.
  • Municipal supply issue — Check with neighbors. If they’re affected too, contact your water provider.

If low pressure affects only hot water, the issue is likely your water heater. Leak detection can identify hidden problems.

A running toilet wastes 200+ gallons per day. Common causes:

  • Faulty flapper — The rubber seal at the tank bottom wears out. Costs $5-10 to replace DIY.
  • Float set too high — Water level rises past the overflow tube. Adjust the float arm or screw.
  • Fill valve failure — If adjusting doesn’t help, the fill valve may need replacement.
  • Overflow tube issues — Cracked tube or improper height.

Quick test: Add food coloring to the tank. If color appears in the bowl without flushing, the flapper is leaking.

Our toilet repair service can quickly fix these issues or recommend replacement if your toilet is old and inefficient.

Slab leaks occur in pipes running under your home’s concrete foundation. Warning signs include:

  • Unexplained spike in water bills
  • Sound of running water when no fixtures are on
  • Warm spots on the floor (hot water line leak)
  • Damp carpet or warped flooring
  • Cracks in walls or foundation
  • Mold or mildew smell
  • Low water pressure

To confirm: Turn off all water, check your water meter. If it’s still moving, you have a leak.

Slab leaks require immediate attention to prevent foundation damage. Our slab leak detection uses electronic equipment and cameras to pinpoint the leak location with minimal disruption.

If the disposal won’t turn on:

  1. Press the reset button on the bottom of the unit
  2. Check the circuit breaker
  3. Make sure it’s plugged in (under sink)

If it hums but doesn’t spin (jammed):

  1. Turn off the disposal and unplug it
  2. Use the Allen wrench (included with most units) in the bottom center hole to manually rotate the blades
  3. Remove the obstruction with tongs (never your hand!)
  4. Press reset and test

Prevention tips:

  • Run cold water before, during, and after use
  • Avoid fibrous foods (celery, corn husks), grease, bones, and coffee grounds
  • Clean monthly with ice cubes and citrus peels

If these steps don’t work, contact us for garbage disposal repair or replacement.

Yes! Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Our emergency plumbers are available 24/7/365 throughout Dallas-Fort Worth.

What qualifies as a plumbing emergency:

  • Burst pipes or major water leaks
  • Sewage backup
  • No water to the house
  • Gas leak (also call 911 and evacuate)
  • Overflowing toilet that won’t stop
  • Water heater leaking/failing

While waiting for us:

  • Shut off the main water valve to prevent further damage
  • Turn off the water heater
  • If safe, begin water cleanup to minimize damage

Call (972) 466-1917 any time for immediate assistance.

Electrical

Electrical safety and service questions answered by licensed electricians

 
Why does my circuit breaker keep tripping?

Circuit breakers trip to protect your home from electrical fires. Common causes:

  • Overloaded circuit — Too many devices on one circuit. Move high-draw appliances to different outlets.
  • Short circuit — Hot wire touching neutral or ground. Often caused by damaged wiring or faulty appliances.
  • Ground fault — Current leaking to ground, common in wet areas. This is why kitchens and bathrooms need GFCI outlets.
  • Faulty breaker — Breakers wear out over time and may trip too easily.
  • Arc fault — Damaged wiring creating sparks. Modern code requires AFCI breakers in living spaces.

When to call an electrician:

  • Breaker trips immediately after reset
  • Burning smell from panel
  • Breaker feels hot or shows discoloration
  • Same breaker trips repeatedly despite reducing load

Never ignore recurring trips—they indicate a potentially dangerous condition. Our electrical inspection can identify the root cause

Many DFW homes built before 1990 have outdated panels that can’t handle modern electrical demands. Signs you need an electrical panel upgrade:

  • Panel is only 100 amps (modern homes need 200 amps)
  • You have a Federal Pacific, Zinsco, or fuse box (safety hazards)
  • Frequent breaker trips
  • Lights dim when appliances turn on
  • Adding major appliances (EV charger, hot tub, new HVAC)
  • Planning home addition or major renovation
  • Selling your home (many buyers/insurers require upgrades)

Panel upgrade benefits:

  • Safer electrical system with modern breakers
  • Capacity for future electrical needs
  • May reduce insurance premiums
  • Required for EV charger installation

A 200-amp panel upgrade typically costs $2,000-4,000 depending on your home’s requirements.

Check these things first:

  1. Circuit breaker — Check if tripped, reset if needed
  2. GFCI outlet — Press the “Reset” button on any GFCI outlet in that area (even in other rooms—they can be linked)
  3. Test another device — Make sure the problem isn’t the device you’re plugging in

If the outlet still doesn’t work:

  • Loose wire connection inside the outlet
  • Damaged outlet that needs replacement
  • Wiring problem elsewhere in the circuit
  • Outlet controlled by a switch (try nearby switches)

If multiple outlets aren’t working, or you smell burning, contact us immediately. Don’t use outlets that spark, feel warm, or make buzzing sounds.

Both are safety devices but protect against different hazards:

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter):

  • Protects against electrical shock
  • Detects current leaking to ground (like through a person)
  • Trips in 1/40th of a second—fast enough to prevent electrocution
  • Required in: Bathrooms, kitchens, garages, outdoors, near pools/hot tubs, laundry areas

AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter):

  • Protects against electrical fires
  • Detects dangerous arcing from damaged wires
  • Installed as breakers in the panel (not at outlets)
  • Required in: Bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, closets (most living spaces per current code)

Homes built before 2014 may not have AFCI protection. Our GFCI services can bring your home up to current safety standards.

EV charger installation costs vary based on your home’s electrical setup:

  • Level 2 charger installation — $500-2,000 for installation (charger unit separate)
  • With panel upgrade — Add $2,000-4,000 if needed
  • Long wire runs — Add $200-500 if garage is far from panel

What affects the price:

  • Distance from electrical panel to charging location
  • Available panel capacity (may need upgrade to 200 amp)
  • Type of charger (40-amp vs. 50-amp)
  • Permit requirements in your city

Most EV owners choose a Level 2 (240V) charger that adds 25-30 miles of range per hour—enough to fully charge overnight. We can assess your panel and provide exact pricing.

Yes, but it requires running new electrical wiring, which is a job for a licensed electrician. Here’s what’s involved:

  • Running wire from the nearest power source through walls/ceiling
  • Installing a fan-rated electrical box (holds 50+ lbs)
  • Adding a wall switch (or smart switch for remote control)
  • Proper bracing for ceiling fan weight and vibration

Cost: $200-500 to install where wiring exists, $400-900 for new wiring installation.

Our ceiling fan installation includes proper box support and switch installation. We can also replace outdated light fixtures with ceiling fans.

After Winter Storm Uri, many DFW homeowners are investing in backup power. Whole-house generators provide seamless protection during outages.

Benefits:

  • Automatically turns on within seconds of power loss
  • Powers your entire home including HVAC
  • Runs on natural gas (no fuel storage needed)
  • Protects pipes from freezing, food from spoiling
  • Maintains security systems and sump pumps

Cost: $10,000-25,000 installed, depending on size and complexity.

Consider a generator if:

  • You have medical equipment requiring power
  • You work from home
  • You have young children or elderly family members
  • You’ve experienced multiple extended outages

We install Generac, Kohler, and other leading generator brands with automatic transfer switches.

Single chirp every 30-60 seconds: Low battery. Replace the battery (even in hardwired detectors with battery backup).

Multiple chirps in a pattern: Check the detector manual—different patterns indicate different issues like end-of-life, malfunction, or CO detection.

Continuous beeping: This is an actual alarm. Check for fire, smoke, or carbon monoxide. If no hazard is found, the detector may be faulty.

Important notes:

  • Replace batteries twice yearly (change clocks, change batteries)
  • Smoke detectors expire after 10 years—check the manufacture date
  • CO detectors expire after 5-7 years
  • Test all detectors monthly by pressing the test button

Our smoke detector service includes proper placement, interconnected installation, and code compliance verification.

General & Company

Questions about LEX and our services in Dallas-Fort Worth

 
What areas do you serve?

LEX provides HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, including:

Not sure if we serve your area?

Yes. LEX is fully licensed, bonded, and insured to protect you and your home.

Our licenses:

  • HVAC: TACLA38788C (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation)
  • Plumbing: M18088 (Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners)
  • Electrical: TECL23192 (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation)

We carry comprehensive general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This protects you from liability if an accident occurs on your property.

Always verify a contractor’s license before hiring. You can check our HVAC license at TDLR License Search.

Yes! We offer flexible financing options with approved credit, making it easier to afford major repairs or new system installations.

Financing benefits:

  • Quick approval process (often same-day)
  • Competitive interest rates
  • Low monthly payments
  • Options for all credit situations
  • No prepayment penalties

Don’t let an unexpected breakdown or needed upgrade strain your budget. We can help you find a payment plan that works for your situation.

The Cool Club is our comprehensive maintenance membership starting at just $14/month. Here’s what’s included:

  • Two HVAC Precision Tune-Ups annually (AC + Heating)
  • Annual plumbing inspection
  • Annual electrical safety inspection
  • 15% off all repairs
  • $39 service calls (reduced from standard rate)
  • Priority 24-hour scheduling
  • No after-hours or holiday fees
  • The LEX Vault — Your membership payments accrue as credit toward future system purchases

Is it worth it? A single AC tune-up costs $150-200. With two tune-ups plus all other benefits, Cool Club pays for itself many times over—especially when you need a repair.

Join 2,100+ DFW homeowners who’ve made the smart choice.

For system replacements: Yes, we provide free in-home estimates for new HVAC systems, water heaters, electrical panels, and other major installations.

For repairs: We charge a service/diagnostic fee that covers the technician’s visit and diagnosis time. If you proceed with the repair, this fee is typically applied toward the work.

Our pricing promise:

  • Upfront pricing before any work begins
  • No surprise charges or hidden fees
  • Written estimates for your records
  • We explain your options—no pressure tactics

We stand behind our work with comprehensive warranties:

Labor warranty:

  • 1-year warranty on all repairs
  • Extended labor warranties available for new installations

Equipment warranties:

  • Manufacturer warranties on all equipment we install (typically 5-10 years on parts)
  • We handle warranty claims on your behalf
  • Extended warranty options available

100% Satisfaction Guarantee: We’re not happy unless you’re happy. If something isn’t right, we’ll make it right.

As a Trane Comfort Specialist dealer, we offer some of the best HVAC warranties in the industry.

For emergencies (no AC in summer, no heat in winter, water leaks, etc.): Same-day service, often within hours.

For non-emergency service: Typically within 1-2 business days, depending on the season.

For Cool Club members: Priority 24-hour scheduling guarantee—we’ll be there within 24 hours.

During peak summer months (June-August), demand is highest. We recommend scheduling maintenance in spring to avoid the rush and ensure your AC is ready for Texas heat.

We accept multiple payment methods for your convenience:

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
  • Debit cards
  • Financing (with approved credit)

Payment is due upon completion of work. For large projects, we may offer progress payments.

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Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Notice

At Lex Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electrical, we are committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities enjoy full access to our websites. In recognition of this commitment, we are in the process of making modifications to increase the accessibility and usability of this website, using the relevant portions of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 (WCAG 2.0) as our standard. Please be aware that our efforts are ongoing. If at any time you have difficulty using this website or with a particular web page or function on this site, please contact us by phone at (972) 430-8303; or email us at ([email protected]) and place “Web Content Accessibility (ADA)” in the subject heading and we will make all reasonable efforts to assist you.