FAQs About HVAC, Plumbing, & More

How often do air filters need to be changed?

It varies, depending on the type of filter or filter media (the type of material) you have. If you have disposable filters, we recommend changing them every 30 days. If you have pleated or poly filters, we recommend changing them every 60 days. Media filters can last a little longer and should be changed every 6 months, depending on conditions.

Do bigger air conditioning units perform better?

Not necessarily. It is important to consult a licensed HVAC company to get the correct size of HVAC system for your home. If you purchase an AC system that’s too big, it will cool your home faster, but it could also be less efficient and will not eliminate humidity well enough, resulting in a cold, humid environment. An oversized AC system will have shorter run cycles. While it will cool the air quickly, it will shut off before it blows enough air across the indoor coil to pull humidity from the indoor air. This could leave too much moisture in the air, which can lead to mold and mildew in your home. Longer run cycles are also more efficient. An oversized system that starts and stops more frequently than a properly sized system may use more energy and wear down faster.

How long do HVAC systems last?

HVAC systems generally last 12 to 15 years. However, your system becomes less efficient and performs worse as it gets older. Therefore, after about 10 years or so, you may want to start saving towards a replacement system. Even if you are not having any major problems, modern HVAC systems will save you money on your energy bills because they are more efficient. Plus, they generally come with 10-year warranties, so you won’t need to worry about replacing them again for quite a while.

If I have an older system, can I save money by just replacing the outdoor unit?

Unfortunately, that is not the case. Your indoor and outdoor equipment need to match in both refrigerant type and efficiency rating to work properly together, so replacing the whole system at the same time is the way to go.

If your system uses R-22 (Freon), that refrigerant has been fully phased out and is no longer produced. If your system uses R-410A (Puron), that one has also been phased out for new equipment as of January 2025. New systems now use next-generation refrigerants like R-454B or R-32, which are not compatible with older components. On top of that, Texas now requires a minimum efficiency rating of 14.3 SEER2 for new residential AC systems, and older units fall well below that. Pairing a new outdoor unit with an outdated indoor unit means you are not getting the efficiency or performance you are paying for.

How often should I have my HVAC unit serviced?

We recommend having your HVAC system serviced twice a year—once in the spring for the air conditioning and once in the fall for the heater. This will save you on energy and repair costs, keep your system running smoothly and efficiently, and make it last longer. The longer you put off HVAC maintenance, the worse your unit will perform, and the more likely it is that it will break down. Trying to save money by delaying maintenance may backfire by forcing you to pay more on energy bills, and potentially resulting in costly repairs or replacement if a serious issue arises with your system. Cool Kids offers a Preventative Maintenance Package that includes bi-annual inspections, one in the spring and one in the fall.

How can I improve the air quality in my home?

The first step to improving your air quality is to prevent unwanted air from entering your home. To do this, seal your duct system. Then you can focus on either cleaning your existing system or installing a more efficient air filtration system. Ask us about our Cool Kids Clean Air Package!

What temperature should I set my thermostat to?

In the Texas heat, we recommend setting your thermostat to around 76°F when you’re home and bumping it up 2–3 degrees when you leave. During the winter, 68°F is a comfortable starting point. Every degree you adjust can make a noticeable difference on your energy bill. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, set schedules so it adjusts automatically—that way you save money without even thinking about it. And remember, don’t crank your thermostat way down to try to cool your home faster. Your AC cools at the same rate regardless of the temperature you set. All you’re doing is making it run longer than it needs to.

Why is my upstairs hotter than my downstairs?

This is one of the most common complaints we hear from homeowners in Round Rock and Georgetown, and there’s a simple reason for it: heat rises. Your upstairs naturally absorbs more heat from the sun and retains warm air that rises from the first floor. A few things can help. First, have a professional check your ductwork and balancing dampers to make sure air is flowing properly throughout your home. You might also benefit from a zoned heating and cooling system, which lets you control the temperature upstairs and downstairs independently. Give us a call and we can walk you through your options.

What are the signs that I need a new AC or heating system?

There are a few red flags to watch for. If your system is more than 10–12 years old and repairs are becoming more frequent or more expensive, it may be time to consider a replacement. Other signs include rooms that won’t stay comfortable, unusual noises or smells, higher-than-normal energy bills, and your system running constantly without reaching the set temperature. If you’re noticing any of these, we’re happy to come out, take a look, and give you an honest recommendation. We’ll never push you toward a replacement if a repair will do the job.

What should I do if my AC stops working?

Before you call us, try a few quick things. First, check your thermostat to make sure it’s set to “cool” and that the temperature is set lower than the current room temperature. Next, check your air filter—a dirty filter can cause your system to shut down. Then, take a look at your breaker box and make sure nothing has tripped. If everything looks fine and your AC still isn’t working, give us a call or text us at 512-591-5488. We offer same-day service and are available days, nights, and weekends.

What is a heat pump, and is it a good option for my home?

A heat pump is a system that provides both cooling and heating from one unit, using electricity to transfer heat rather than burning fuel. In the summer it works like a traditional air conditioner, and in the winter it reverses the process to warm your home. Heat pumps are a great option for Central Texas because our winters are mild enough that they can handle the heating load efficiently. If you’re curious about whether a heat pump makes sense for your home, give us a call and we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons.

Why does my heater smell like something is burning when I first turn it on?

Don’t panic—this is actually pretty normal, especially here in Texas where your heater sits unused for months. What you’re smelling is dust that’s settled on the heat exchanger and burners while the system has been dormant. When the heater fires up, it burns off that dust, and the smell usually goes away within a few minutes. However, if the smell lasts longer than that, or if it smells like rotten eggs or something electrical, turn your system off and give us a call right away. Those could be signs of a more serious issue.

Should I adjust my thermostat when I leave the house?

Yes! Your HVAC system is likely the biggest energy consumer in your home, so adjusting the temperature when you leave can save you real money over time. We recommend bumping the temperature up by 2–3 degrees in the summer and down by 2–3 degrees in the winter when you step out. If you’re leaving for a longer period, like a vacation, you can adjust by 5–8 degrees. Just keep in mind that when you return, your system will need some time to bring your home back to your preferred temperature. A programmable or smart thermostat can handle all of this automatically for you.

How do I know if I have a plumbing leak?

There are a few telltale signs to watch for. Unexplained increases in your water bill are one of the biggest indicators. You might also notice damp or warm spots on your floors, the sound of running water when nothing is turned on, low water pressure, or mold and mildew in unexpected places. If you suspect a leak, don’t wait—even a small leak can cause big damage over time. Cool Kids offers leak detection services to help pinpoint the problem and get it fixed before it gets worse.

Should I repair or replace my water heater?

It depends on the age and condition of your unit. Most traditional tank water heaters last about 8–12 years. If yours is getting up there in age and you’re dealing with frequent issues like inconsistent hot water, rusty water, or strange noises, replacement is usually the smarter long-term investment. On the other hand, if your water heater is relatively new and the issue is something straightforward, a repair might be all you need. Cool Kids offers both water heater repair and installation, and we’ll always give you an honest assessment to help you make the best decision for your home and budget.

What should I do in a plumbing emergency?

The first thing you should do is turn off the water supply to the affected area—or to your whole house if you’re not sure where the problem is. This helps prevent flooding and further damage. Then give us a call at 512-591-5488. Cool Kids offers emergency plumbing services, and we’ll work to get someone out to you as quickly as we can to assess the situation and get things under control.

Why is my drain clogging so often?

Frequent clogs usually point to a buildup of grease, soap residue, hair, or food particles in your pipes over time. In some cases, it can also be a sign of a deeper issue like tree root intrusion or a problem with your sewer line. If you’re dealing with the same drain backing up again and again, it’s worth having a professional take a closer look rather than just clearing it each time. Cool Kids offers clog and drain cleaning services, and we can identify what’s causing the recurring issue and recommend the right fix so you’re not constantly reaching for the plunger.

How do I know if my sewer line needs repair?

There are a few warning signs that something may be going on with your sewer line. Multiple drains in your home backing up at the same time is a big one. You might also notice gurgling sounds coming from your toilets, sewage smells in your yard or home, or patches of unusually green grass in your yard. If you’re experiencing any of these, give us a call. Cool Kids offers sewer line repair services, and we can inspect the line and let you know exactly what’s going on before it turns into a bigger problem.

Do you offer same-day service?

Yes! Cool Kids offers same-day service calls for HVAC issues, and we’re available days, nights, and weekends. For plumbing problems, we also offer emergency plumbing services. Just call or text us at 512-591-5488 and we’ll work to get someone out to you as quickly as possible.

Do you offer financing?

We do! We understand that replacing your HVAC system is a big investment, and we want to make the process as smooth as possible. Cool Kids offers easy financing options so you can get the comfort you need without the financial stress. Call or text us at 512-591-5488 for more information, and we’ll walk you through what’s available.

What areas do you serve?

Cool Kids AC, Heat & Plumbing is proud to serve Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Hutto, and surrounding areas in Central Texas. If you’re not sure whether you’re in our service area, just give us a call, and we’ll let you know!

Are your technicians licensed and insured?

Yes. All of our technicians are trained, licensed, and insured. Our HVAC license number is TACLB29065E, and our plumbing license number is M-39586, both regulated by the state of Texas. When you work with Cool Kids, you can feel confident that the people coming into your home are qualified professionals who know what they’re doing.

How do I schedule an appointment?

It’s easy! You can call or text us at 512-591-5488, or fill out the contact form on our website. We offer same-day service and are open every day but Sunday. Se habla español.