Home Heating & Cooling Solutions for Better Sleep

How your Home’s HVAC System Can Improve Your Sleeping

Thermostat setting for better sleep

Having trouble getting a good night’s sleep? Have you tried everything and nothing seems to work? The answer to improving your sleeping routine could be with your home’s heating and cooling system!

How is that possible? Tiger Heating & Air has the team of experienced heating and cooling technicians trained in improving overall home comfort which also improves overall sleep! But this goes beyond just having a nice, cool home to sleep in. There are many ways that your home’s HVAC system can improve your sleep.

Perfect Temperature for Sleeping

Before any arguments start on what the perfect temperature is for getting the best night’s sleep is, let’s make it clear. Every person is different and what works for others may not work as well for you. But studies show that in general, the best temperature for getting a good night’s sleep is between 60 and 67 degrees.

Man sleeping bad because home too hot and humid

Stop the Sweaty Nights

Temperature isn’t the only thing that helps make sure your sleep is cool and comfortable. Your home’s humidity levels play a major role here. Humidity can make a typically comfortable temperature feel uncomfortable. Here in Corpus Christi, we know this all too well!

Too much moisture in your air can make the temperature feel warmer than it really is. That is why a home dehumidification system can be one of the most impactful ways you can improve the comfort levels in a home that already has a well-working cooling system.

You don’t just have to take our word for it. According to the CDC’s report on indoor environment, it is both temperature AND humidity levels that “affect the perception of comfort in an indoor environment.” The CDC says that overall home comfort is impacted by:

  • Temperature
  • Humidity
  • Air movement
  • Personal activities
  • Clothing
Dehumidification services from Tiger Heating & Air in Corpus Christi

The CDC recommends that the ideal home humidity levels should be at or below 65% and the ideal indoor temperatures are between 68.5° and 75°F in the winter and between 75° and 80.5°F in the summer. The main reason why they provide different ranges for different seasons is due to what people typically wear during these seasons.

Is that the right nighttime temperature for you? A thermostat set to 79 or 80 in the summer may be too hot for you. If you suffer from insomnia, research shows you should aim for reducing the temperature, even lower than the CDC recommendation. While these upper 70s temps may be great for many (and for energy consumption), it may be just too hot for you to sleep through well.

You will want to experiment with different temperatures to see which one you can best sleep with. And if you find a lower temperature still has you waking up sweating in the middle of the night, it really may be a humidify problem. Lower moisture in the air will make the air feel cooler in your home, even if the thermostat setting is at the same temperature.

Set Thermostat for Optimum Sleeping Temps

Programmable thermostat is a great tip for getting good sleep

Having a programmable thermostat provides a lot of benefits. Not only does help you save energy (and lower utility bills) by making sure your cooling system isn’t running too hard when no one is home to enjoy it, a programmable thermostat will help you ensure your home is prepped for the perfect sleeping temperature.

Be sure to set your thermostat to the ideal nighttime temperature settings to occur while you’re asleep. That way you won’t have to remember to change the settings every night. Because if you forget, you may wake up in the middle of the night feeling hot and uncomfortable.

Contact Tiger Heating & Air in Corpus Christi for service on your air conditioner, your thermostat or to provide home dehumidification solutions. Call us today at (361) 852-4450.

A Fan of Air Circulation

As was listed by the CDC for things that improve comfort is air movement. One of the best ways to get the air moving in your home is with a ceiling fan. But short of getting ceiling fans installed in your bedrooms, you can simply use a box fan or a standing fan to contribute to positive air movement in your home in the rooms you need it most at night.

Tips for Getting a Good Night’s Sleep

Beyond creating the perfect indoor air environment, there are other ways to help improve your sleep. Here are some tips for getting a good night’s sleep.

  • Don’t use electronic devices close to bedtime
  • Go to bed at a decent time and stick to a consistent sleep schedule
  • Keep your room dark
  • Don’t go to bed too hungry or overly full
  • Increase physical activity during the day
  • Read a good book

Let Tiger Help You Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Whether you are dealing with an air conditioning system that isn’t staying cool enough for you while you sleep, or you want to remove excess moisture from your air, call on Corpus Christi’s AC experts at Tiger Heating & Air at (361) 852-4450.

Tiger Heating & Air AC service in Corpus Christi, TX

Can Dog Urine Ruin an AC Unit?

Problem Pests & Peeing Damage to an Outdoor Air Conditioner

Can dog urine damage an ac unit

Some might say this is a Number 1 problem (it is definitely not Number 2). Nonetheless, finding out that a dog has been peeing on your air conditioner is not great. And it is an issue that you can’t ignore. Dog urine can cause some real damage to your outdoor air conditioning unit.

Tiger Heating & Air is called out all the time for a variety of different air conditioning problems across Corpus Christi. We have handled every type of AC problem including units damaged from dog urine.

Dog Urine is Damaging

Urine can ruin an AC unit because it contains acid. That acid will corrode the aluminum fins and copper coils inside your air conditioner.

One “accident” is likely not a disaster, but that is rarely the case. If a dog has picked your AC as his new bathroom, he is likely going to revisit it. Repeated use of urine on your air conditioning unit will eat away at the metal.

Signs a Dog is Peeing on your AC

Here are a few signs that could indicate some local canine is making your AC his new favorite potty spot:

  • Higher energy bills
  • Freon deficiency, needing replacement
  • Unit not performing as well this year
  • Needing to replace fins and/or coils
Dog urine damage on air conditioner

Troubleshooting Dog Urine Damage to an AC

If you happen to catch Spot in the act, you should act right away. Turn off your air conditioner, turn off the power to your AC unit, and clean it right away. Why? That urine can damage your coils by causing corrosion to them.

Clean the unit by following these steps:

  • Remove any protective grills
  • Lightly spray your unit with a garden hose, making sure to especially spray any coils that were directly “hit”
  • Clean off any debris you find while you’re at it
  • Replace the protective grills and wait at least an hour before turning the power to the unit and the unit itself back on

If only a few aluminum fins are damaged and the coil is not leaking, you may not have an urgent problem. While fins are important parts of an air conditioner, having only a few damaged (less than 25%) should not cause your AC to break down. If that is the only damage you have (and the problem isn’t getting made worse with repeated urination), you may be able to delay repairs.

However, with those damaged fins, your AC coils are exposed. If they appear to be visibly damaged (corroded) by the dog urine, you will want to get the coils repaired or replaced.

Tiger Heating & Air has 24/7 emergency AC repair service in Corpus Christi, TX

If you don’t feel confident in your ability to handle this level of AC maintenance, no worries! Professional AC technicians can handle these sorts of maintenance tasks to ensure your HVAC system works properly and efficiently. If you’re in the Corpus Christi area, contact the AC experts at Tiger Heating and Air. 

Give us a call at (361) 852-4450 or send us a maintenance service request online with our Web Scheduler.

Preventing a Pooch from Peeing on an Air Conditioner

Did you find out your good girl is not always being a good girl? It can be difficult to change a dog’s habits, especially when it comes to urination and marking its territory. But there is hope. You can try some dog-deterrent techniques to stop your dog from continually urinating on your air conditioner.

Do not put plants too close to AC units

#1: Plant Bushes

Adding plants around an air conditioner can prevent Fido from choosing that unit as its potty spot. Make sure to keep the plants at least 3 feet away from the AC. Read more about the Best Plants to Hide AC Units.

#2: Put a fence around your air conditioner

Just make sure any fence or structure is at least 3 feet away from the unit itself to provide access to the AC for maintenance or repairs are needed.

#3: Spray pet deterrent around the AC unit

There are sprays that can keep a dog from going near it. You just want to be sure to not spray anything like this directly ON the AC unit, as that could damage your system. Just spray it all around the unit to create a sort of barrier to your pet.

Use Tiger to Fight Dog Damage!

5.	Dog playing with stick in back yard

If you are dealing with a damaged AC from dog urine or from any other issue, call on Corpus Christi’s AC experts at Tiger Heating & Air at (361) 852-4450.

We will come and check your system and make sure to leave with it operating properly and safely. Getting minor problems fixed right away can save you money in the long run. When your system is not working properly, it is having to work harder to keep your home cool.

Do Air Vent Deflectors Work?

Using Vent Diverters to Control Airflow in Your Home

do air vent deflectors work? Tips for controlling air flow

Controlling the Cool Air Coming Out Your Vents

Do you have a vent that is in a bad location, constantly blowing cool air directly on your face? It can be an ongoing struggle to have a vent located in a poor place. You may have looked into solutions to this annoying airflow, such as getting air vent deflectors. But do vent deflectors really work?

Having serviced homes all across Corpus Christi for decades, our team at Tiger Heating & Air has seen how the location where vents got installed may be a problem. Maybe you moved furniture around, or you’re not the original homeowner. Several things can cause a vent to no longer be placed in an ideal location for comfort.

Addressing vent problems does not always require intense remodeling work. Tiger Heating & Air here in Corpus Christi can help homeowners find solutions to getting a comfortable home. While sometimes the answer may require a visit from our AC Repair Experts, sometimes there are simple and affordable options for homeowners to improve home comfort on their own.

What are Air Vent Deflectors?

1.	Wall air vent diverter

A vent deflector is usually a molded piece of plastic that fits right over a vent. It is designed to direct your air to where you want it.

These devices are also known as vent diverters, draft diverters, vent extenders, and vent redirectors. No matter what name they are called, they are meant to do the same thing, to change the direction of air coming out of your vents.

These little devices are pretty inexpensive. You can probably pick one up for about $10 to $30. You can find them in local hardware stores, big box stores, or on Amazon.

And what’s also great is that vent deflectors are easy to install.

Types of Air Vent Diverters

Wall Vent Deflectors

Ceiling Air Vent Deflector

Floor Vent Deflector

3.	Do vent deflectors work? Air vent diverter on floor

Where a Vent Deflector Can Help

Do you have any problems with how the air comes out of your vents? Have you closed any vents to help improve your home’s airflow? That’s not ideal. You need a better solution than blocking or shutting off vents.

Air vent diverters provide a better way for you to redirect the airflow.

Some places to consider adding a vent deflector:

  • Behind furniture
  • Over a vent that’s near a thermostat
  • In unused rooms

Covering Your Vents: Why It Is a Bad Idea

Vent deflectors are a better option than other ways to deal with annoying airflow. For example, it is not a good idea to cover your vents. Your vents are designed to work together. One vent is a part of a larger system, a system that is designed to flow air throughout your home. And when you close too many vents, you disrupt the airflow, which can cause heating and cooling problems throughout your home.

If you have furniture over your vent, you block it and perhaps impede your heating and cooling system from working properly. The easiest thing to do is move any furniture that is blocking vents. But we know that isn’t always a workable solution.

Using a vent deflector may help alleviate this problem. The deflector can redirect the hot or cool air to continue its path into your room.

2.	Covering air vent with duct tape is a bad idea and can hurt energy efficiency

Do Not Close Vents

Covering up a vent with duct tape is as ridiculous as it looks. But it might surprise you that closing a vent is just about as bad an idea.

It’s common for people to believe they should close vents to conserve energy and lower monthly bills, but that’s a misconception.

When you disrupt the flow of air coming through your vents, your HVAC system has to work harder to get your house to the desired temperature. That usually causes your system to use more energy, resulting in higher utility bills.

Air Vent Deflectors Can Help

In a perfect set-up, you don’t have any air being blown somewhere inconvenient. But we know sometimes that is inevitable. So if you are left with needing to take control over air coming out one or more of your vents, air vent deflectors are a good option. Just about any other alternative will prevent proper airflow from happening, which can cause problems.

If you have problems with vents in your home or questions about improving the airflow or efficiency of your home’s heating and cooling system, just ask the HVAC experts at Tiger Heating & Cooling. Contact us online for service or call us at 361-852-4450.

We also provide professional duct cleaning services to the entire Corpus Christi area.

free quote on AC installation

Best Plants to Hide AC Units

best plants to hid ac units and what to avoid

Ideas for Landscaping Around an Outdoor AC

Whether for security or beauty, using plants to hide AC units is a great solution. Here in Corpus Christi, where Tiger Heating & Air provides full home cooling service to homeowners and businesses, there are many great landscaping options for doing this.

AC Operation: Important Tips for Nearby Plants

When using plants to hide AC units, you want to keep plants at least 2 – 3 feet of spacing from the air conditioner.

An air conditioning unit needs some breathing room to do its job. If you put a plant too close to an outdoor unit, you obstruct proper airflow, which can cause problems.

  • Your energy efficiency could be negatively affected if plants grow too close to a unit.
  • It may not work as long as it was designed to and may be more prone to needing repairs.
  • It will not be easily accessible for regular tune-ups or if an AC repair is needed.

Consider getting a potted plant. That way, if the plant grows too large or too close to your unit, you can easily move it rather than having to dig it up and replant further away.

Potted plants still need to be put at least 2-3 feet away from an air conditioner unit.

Do not put a potted plant directly on top of the unit itself.

Good plants to hide AC units

Because you need a type of plant that will not cause problems for your nearby AC unit, you want to make sure you are getting the suitable variety.

Arborvitaes are good tall plants to hide ac unit
  • Plants that grow upright
    Find plants that grow up, not out. Broad plants can grow too close to your unit. Arborvitaes are a good example of plants that grow upright.
  • Plants that don’t grow too quickly
    Make sure your plant isn’t overtaking your air conditioner as it grows. That can cause airflow problems and keep your AC from operating well or efficiently.

    Some plants grow 2 feet each year. A fast-growing plant will quickly encroach upon your unit unless you keep it trimmed regularly.
  • Plants that are not prickly
    Avoid getting anything with thorns or sharp leaves, like roses or holly. Prickly plants will make it very difficult (or at least painful) for you or a repair technician to service the unit. So while the prickly pear may be a favorite native plant for Texans, keep it well away from your air conditioner.
  • Plants that don’t create debris
    You don’t want dirt and debris to get into your outdoor AC unit. That can cause many problems, including an air conditioner freezing up. For this reason, azaleas are a bad idea to plant near an AC unit.
Putting plants too close to your ac unit can cause the air conditioner to freeze up
Pollinating plants are bad to put close to an outdoor ac unit
By Ivar Leidus CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=44719521
  • Avoid pollinators
    Did you know that AC units can become the home of a bee or wasp nest? You don’t want to encourage that with a pollinating plant that lures them closer to your unit. The mealy sage (aka salvia farinacea) is a Texas native plant that attracts bees, so a bad choice to plant near an AC unit.
  • Tall grasses are good options
    Whether it’s southwestern bristlegrass, Indiangrass, or big bluestem, you can find a lot of great tall grasses that grow well in Texas to plant near an AC unit. These can get as high as 5 or 6 feet tall.
  • Hostas
    If you are not concerned about getting tall plants to hide it but simply want to improve the landscaping around an AC, hostas are great ground plants that won’t threaten your air conditioner.

Make sure that you don’t put mulch too closely around your AC. The coils should never be covered or buried under mulch.

Native Texas Plants

There are many plants native to our area that would work wonderfully for backyard landscaping.

Lacey oak trees are also native to Texas and grow only about 2 or 3 feet tall. They can handle high heat and drought and create nice shade for an AC unit.

Turk’s cap is a beautiful option for landscaping in south Texas, but it grows quickly. While it can reach heights of 6 feet, it can also spread that wide. So be mindful of how close you plant one of these perennials to your AC unit.

Non-plant Landscaping Options

There are other aesthetic ways to conceal an AC unit in your backyard. If you don’t have a green thumb or simply don’t want plants in that location, consider getting a trellis or lattice box around your unit.

While these can be placed closer to an AC unit than plants, you need to make sure there is still access to the AC. Do not cover up the unit so much that you or an AC repair technician can’t get to it for needed maintenance and repair.

Benefits to hiding your outdoor air conditioning unit

Placing plants around your AC can help you hide it as well as make your backyard living space more beautiful. But there are other benefits to adding plants near your AC. Extra plants provide shading to your backyard and your AC unit. Proper placement of plants can provide needed relief from the sun’s heat, which can help your AC perform better.

Need more Air Conditioning Help or Advice?

Call Tiger Heating & Air for 24/7 AC repair in Corpus Christi, TX

Tiger Heating & Air has the team of AC repair experts here in Corpus Christi, TX. Our skilled HVAC technicians are trained to service any cooling system.

Give us a call if you need help with your air conditioning system. Contact Tiger Heating and Air online or by calling us at 361-852-4450.

Running an AC Without a Filter

can you be running AC without filter

What happens when you run an air conditioner when there is no air filter?

If you are wondering if it is okay to be running your air conditioner without an air filter, the answer is simple. No.

An air filter is an important part of your home’s entire cooling system. Just because it may seem like the least expensive component of your entire system, does not mean it is not important.

Will your AC work if you run it without a filter? Yes. And that is unfortunate, but as we will go over, you are putting your home’s system at risk of breaking down and creating a whole host of other problems.

Calling Tiger Heating & Air is the team of AC repair experts here in Corpus Christi. Our technicians are trained and experienced to work on any type of cooling system and to handle any needed repair. All too often we run across air conditioning problems that were avoidable. Sometimes a repair is needed simply because the homeowner didn’t have a clean air filter installed in their system.

Get emergency ac repair in Corpus Christi

Potential Problems of Running AC Without a Filter

Condensation Drain Problems

outdoor unit, running ac without filter

The condensation drain allows moisture to leave your AC unit. Running AC without a filter, it can fail to function. This can cause condensation to accumulate which will likely lead to a leak and damage your entire system.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

Your air filter filters out dust and debris, and also even very small particles of pollutants. It is quite amazing what all gets filtered out of your system before the cooled air gets pushed through your vents. But without a filter, there is nothing to stop the dust, dirt, and contaminated particles from getting into your home and into the air you breathe.

If you suffer from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues, it will not likely take long for you to feel the negative effects of running an air conditioning system without a filter.

Problems in the Ducts

Dirt that does not get filtered out by a filter makes its way into your ductwork. While this leads to the previously mentioned issue of poor air quality, it causes yet another problem. This creates increased moisture in your ducts which promotes mold growth. Mold in your ducts can be a nuisance, or even worse, for your health.

Other AC Problems

In addition to those main issues that can happen from an air conditioner being run without a filter (or at least a clean enough one), other negative results are possible.

  • Higher energy bills
  • Frozen evaporator coils
  • Air not getting cooled sufficiently
  • Damaged compressor
Running AC without Filter like these can damage your home’s air conditioning system.

AC Break Downs are Likely

Running an AC without a filter can lead to big problems. Without anything to stop the dirt and debris from traveling through your home’s cooling system, the parts inside are going to be affected. They may get covered in dirt and grime and completely stop working altogether. You may need to have certain parts repaired or replaced. You may need to have your entire HVAC system replaced.

Either way, the cost of making sure you have a clean air filter in place is much, much cheaper than all the destruction not having one is likely to cause.

How to Change an AC Filter

Dirty filter, almost as bad as running AC without filter

The keys to changing your air filter are:

  1. Make sure you have the right size of filter and that you install it in the correct direction
  2. Know how often you need to replace your filter

Knowing what filter you need and which way it goes can be very easy. Simply look at the filter that is already in your AC without completely removing it. Note down the size of the filter. For example, it may say 10×20, 16×24, 18×30, or another set of numbers.

Also, filters vary in depth. While most common filters are 1 inch thick, some are as deep as 6 inches.

Then you need to check for which direction the arrow is pointing. When you replace this old filter with a new one, simply make sure the arrow on the new filter is pointed in the same direction.

How often you need to change your AC filter depends on a few factors. Many people find they need to replace their air filter every 6-8 weeks. You will want to replace it more often if any of these conditions apply to you:

  • Pets in the home
  • Many people in the home
  • People who suffer from allergies
  • People with respiratory illnesses

If you have a permanent AC filter, you need to remove it to wash it regularly. Be sure to note which direction the arrow is pointing on that filter before completely removing it. You can use a permanent marker to draw on your system the direction of the arrow so you will never be left wondering.

Clean it with a hose until all the dirt and debris are gone. Dry the filter before you reinstall it.

What if you NEED to run the AC and don’t have a filter?

Running an AC without a filter may be okay to do for only a matter of hours without serious problems occurring. If you feel like you need to run the air conditioner without a filter, then you should have time to run to the store for a replacement filter.

Need a Corpus Christi AC Technician to Help?

If you have any questions about your air filter or anything else about your home’s cooling system, call the Corpus Christi AC experts at Tiger Heating and Air at 361-852-4450.

We are happy to troubleshoot and fix any problem you are having with your AC.

AC technicians at Tiger Heating & Air with air conditioner in Corpus Christi HVAC shop

Tiger AC technicians can also provide professional maintenance service on your home’s entire cooling system. Having us come out to do a thorough check of your system can help us find and prevent any potential problems and breakdowns from occurring.

Tiger Heating & Air technicians are qualified to service any type of air conditioner or cooling system. We provide 24/7 service to the Corpus Christi area and deliver friendly, quality service at a fair price. Read reviews from people across Corpus Christi who recommend Tiger!

Call Tiger at (361) 852-4450 and let us how we can help you today!

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DIY Ductless Mini Split AC Installation

Is it Easy to Install a Ductless Air Conditioner Yourself?

Ductless Mini Split unit installed on a wall

Have you seen the fantastic do-it-yourself claims by companies selling DIY ductless mini split systems to homeowners? They say it is “so easy you can do it in 4 hours!”

Are these DIY systems really as easy to install as the companies claim? Or will you end up with problems that will cost you more money in the long run?

At Tiger Heating & Air, our team provides the heating and cooling needs for Corpus Christi. You can call on Tiger for any kind of AC installation, including a ductless air conditioning system. Hybrid heating and cooling systems have become popular in America in recent years, and for good reason. Ductless mini splits are excellent home comfort AC systems that provide the heating and cooling a space needs without invasive ductwork. They often are a perfect opportunity to get the comfort you need in an area that doesn’t have proper temperature control, like a renovated attic that can’t ever get cool enough during the hottest months of our Texas summers.

INSTALLING A DIY DUCTLESS MINI SPLIT SYSTEM IS NOT FOR A FIRST TIME DIY-ER

Common Problems Installing a DIY Mini Split

Installing a DIY ductless mini split air conditioner involves complicated tasks including electrical work. Some work may be challenging to do without another person or a HVAC technician or electrician to help.

How difficult of work this is depends on the skill and capabilities of the person installing the mini split system. People who have tried installing one themselves have had mixed reactions.

Some problems you might run into:

  • If you make a mistake in installing the refrigerant line, you will need a licensed HVAC technician to reset it
  • You may find required parts were missing in the kit you received
  • Getting an instruction manual that isn’t for the model you purchased
  • Untwisting the lineset was difficult for some people
  • The instructions on how to match the electrical wires are unclear
  • You may be surprised at the cost of additional items that aren’t provided in the kit, such as electrical wires.
if you make a mistake with the refrigerant line, you’ll need an hvac technician to fix it. DIY ductless mini split is not easy to install

Can I Install a DIY Ductless Mini Split Myself?

You may be quite handy but installing a ductless HVAC system is more complicated than many other DIY home projects.

Ask yourself these questions before purchasing a DIY kit:

  • Do you have experience doing electrical work?
  • Do you know how to pour a concrete pad?
  • Do you know how to find out precisely what size of a system is needed for your space? Do you know what SEER or BTU the area requires?

YouTube DIY Videos vs. Reality

If you Google for information on how easy it is to install a DIY ductless mini split system yourself, you will find videos from people who have installed these systems. You may see people putting these systems together and ending the day with a space now heated or cooled by their new system.

However, many of these people are not your average homeowner. Some are even professional techs. Many have helpers with their install, including professional HVAC technicians or electricians.

Also, you will find some of these online videos and blogs are sponsored by MRCOOL DIY.

AC installation will include electrical work and knowing how to calculate for correct BTU

DIY Mini Splits vs. Traditional Ductless Systems

When it comes to purchasing a ductless mini split to install yourself, there’s one first thing you need to know. Just because it’s a ductless system does not mean it’s a DIY one.

Components of a ductless mini split system

There are different kinds of DIY ductless mini split units available today, but not all are designed to be installed by a non-professional, not even a handy one.

For example, MrCool DIY Ductless is designed differently than the ductless systems Tiger (and most other professional HVAC companies) install. A DIY version comes with a pre-charged line set which should eliminate having to deal with refrigerant. Working with refrigerants is something a person who is not trained and licensed in HVAC systems and installation should never do themselves.

Traditional ductless system installation requires soldering work and specific tools. These systems have more complicated wiring and controls than refrigerators do. If you purchase a DIY mini split that was not sold as a DIY version, you will probably face work you are not capable of nor have the tools to handle.

Considerations Before a DIY Ductless Installation

You need to know the size of the system your space needs before purchasing a DIY mini split kit. This is not about determining the unit’s actual size but knowing the BTU amount necessary for the space you are trying to heat and cool.

Determining the correct size depends on factors including:

  • Climate range you live in
  • Square footage of the room or space
  • Amount of sun exposure to the area
  • Level of insulation

What is Not Included in DIY Ductless Mini Split Kits?

While most DIY systems come with the components you need for installation, there are some things you will need that are not included, including:

  • A dedicated 208/220 circuit in your electrical panel
  • Wiring to a junction box
  • An AC shut-off switch at the junction box

In addition, if electrical work is not something you are not able to handle yourself, you will have to pay for an electrician to help with some of the ductless installation.

The cost for professional electrical work needed likely ranges from about $500 – $1000. But prices vary from area to area and also can increase depending on what issues or complications they run into in the job.

Your DIY system may not be under warranty. Be aware that many DIY Ductless systems come with a warranty that is only good if a licensed HVAC technician installed it. That means if you installed it yourself, it would not be under warranty.

if you install it yourself, the system will probably not be under warranty

Cost for Installing a DIY Ductless Mini Split System

Costs of the system itself vary from brand to brand and from type to type. Depending on the size you get, including various specifics like SEER rating, you can find several options costing between $1,000.00 to $3,000.00.

The other cost is your time. These systems are advertised to take about 3-4 hours of work, not including the shopping time to purchase additional electrical components. And if you need help in installing it (like most do), will you have to pay someone for that?

It will not save you money if you cannot install it yourself. You are not going to save on the cost of an HVAC professional if you have to end up calling one out to finish the job.

If you cannot install it yourself, you will likely need to call on experienced HVAC technicians like those here at Tiger Heating & Air. We have been called to help a homeowner who has run into problems beyond their ability to install a ductless mini split.

MONEY SAVING TIP: Do NOT buy a DIY ductless system with the intention of hiring a professional company to install it. This will not save you money. You may even discover the HVAC company will not install a ductless system that you purchased.

it may cost you more money if you end up needing an hvac technician to install it

When is a Ductless Mini Split NOT the Best Choice?

Ductless Mini Splits are excellent heating and cooling systems. However, they are not always the right solution to a room’s temperature needs. There are a variety of other HVAC options that may solve the problem you are having.

There may be a cheaper solution than a ductless mini split. Trust an experienced HVAC company to help you find out precisely the right solution to your home’s comfort needs.

Trust Tiger to Solve your Heating & Cooling Needs

Tiger Heating & Air installs AC systems in Corpus Christi, TX

Please check with us or whatever HVAC company you plan to hire BEFORE purchasing any system. A good local company will give you a free estimate of the temperature solution your space needs. Contact Tiger today for a free installation quote.

Tiger Heating & Air has handled thousands of quality HVAC installations across the Corpus Christi area. We can provide your home with exactly the right cooling system your home needs at about or even below the cost you will pay for a DIY version.

Call Tiger Heating and Air Conditioning at 361-852-4450 in Corpus Christi, TX.

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Does a 2 Story House Need a 2 ACs?

2 air conditioners installed

When to Install a Second Floor Air Conditioning Unit

Graphic image of house showing the 2nd floor is too hot

Do You Have a Hot Upstairs?

This is a common problem for a lot of multiple-level homes. The second floor never gets properly cool on hot days. You may have to crank up the AC to get it to acceptable levels, which can freeze out anyone on the first floor.

If you live in a 2-story house, you probably know this situation all too well. Here at Tiger Heating & Air, we have heard from many Corpus Christi homeowners suffering from a hot upstairs. And often homeowners wonder if they need a second floor air conditioning unit.

There are a lot of old homes in our area. Being the HVAC company that has serviced Corpus Christi homes for nearly 3 decades, we have run across every type of heating and cooling problem. Fortunately, there are more solutions to get true home comfort in all of your rooms today than there were a hundred years ago. So, even if we are dealing with a drafty old house, you have new options to make all the floors on your home cool and comfortable year-round.

Common Cooling Problems

  • Does your home have insufficient insulation? A home without the proper insulation can be so drafty that it’s virtually impossible to get consistent temperature control throughout the house.
  • Does your roof absorb heat? Not only can a poorly insulated roof cause a warm upstairs, a roof made from materials that absorb heat could also make the situation worse.
  • Did your home undergo an attic renovation? An attic remodel can affect your cooling problem. If proper adjustments were not made to your home’s heating & cooling system to accommodate a new living space, comfort levels in other parts of your home could be compromised. After all, a system made to only cool one floor will probably not give you a comfortable temperature when creating a 2nd level of living space.

Understanding Why a Second Story Gets Extra Hot

Hot air rises. Without utilizing any cooling system, your upstairs should always get hotter. But even with central air or another HVAC system, a second floor can still easily become warmer than the main level. After all, your single cooling system (with components usually located on the ground floor and basement) has to do more work to get that cool air to your second floor.

So, what are your options?

You may think your only choice is to get a larger, more energy-efficient air conditioner for your entire home. And until then, you’re left with just trying to avoid the hotter second floor whenever possible.

There are more solutions to fixing a hot upstairs!

When you have Tiger help you finally solve your hot 2nd floor problem, the first thing we do is determine the source of the problem.  Some of the issues we will look for include:

  • Could you have an issue with your ductwork?
  • Do you need better insulation?
  • Is your AC unit the proper size to handle your home’s square footage?
  • Is your cooling system in proper working order?

When to Consider a Second Floor Air Conditioning Unit

Photo of 2 AC units installed outside 2 story home with a hot upstairs

While upgrading your air conditioner to a newer, bigger AC unit may be a solution, some homes are better served with a 2nd AC. Instead of replacing what may be a working air conditioner with a larger one to accommodate your second floor, you can get an additional AC unit installed to address cooling the 2nd floor specifically.

There are a few things to consider when deciding if you need a second air conditioning system installed.

#1: AC INSTALLATION COST

An additional unit may cost less than what you think. After all, this AC is not going to cool the entire square footage of your home. A 2nd AC unit that works to only cool your 2nd floor would be smaller than any AC needed to cool your entire home.

Tiger Heating & Air, or any professional HVAC company, will calculate exactly what size AC unit your rooms upstairs need. The square footage of your 2nd floor will determine the proper unit size. Contact Tiger online or call (361) 852-4450 and we will come out to determine exactly what air conditioner would be best for your home.

#2: ENERGY WASTE & BILLS

New installation isn’t the other financial factor to consider. How much do you spend on your energy bill each month? It might sound surprising, but having two air conditioners to cool a 2-story home may save you money!

If you’ve been dealing with a single AC system that cannot cool all your living spaces, you are putting great demand on your system. It’s working to put out more cool air than it is designed to do. If you are making your downstairs cooler than comfortable with making it right upstairs, then you probably already have realized you are wasting energy (and money). An additional air conditioner focused on cooling just the upstairs will take the work away from the other unit.

#3: PEACE OF MIND

Having two air conditioning units provides you with some unique assurance. You may feel more secure in knowing that your chance of a summer HVAC disaster is significantly reduced. If one of your air conditioners were to break down, you would have another unit still operating. While this sole unit won’t be sufficient to cool your entire home, you will at least have some level of cooling in your home until an AC repair technician comes out and fix the broken air conditioner.

#4: SECOND AC LOCATION

Finding where to put a 2nd AC system can be a challenge. This includes the inside unit (the evaporator) and the outside AC unit (the condenser). You may have limited space for installing a second air conditioner. In addition, a 2nd unit will need ductwork that is separate from existing ducts with your current unit. Our technicians can walk you through your options to ensure the best space is used for this installation. 

DIY: Little Fixes for a Hot Second Floor

If you’re not ready to upgrade your home system or are still not sure it is needed, you can try to remedy your problem with some smaller tactics.

2 air conditioners installed Here are some basic home maintenance tasks that can help solve some of the problems of overly hot spaces in a home:

  • Make sure your furnace filter is clean and is getting changed on a proper schedule
  • Make sure your vents are open and not blocked by furniture or anything else
  • Close your window blinds and curtains in 2nd floor rooms to keep the sun from heating up the space

If these little steps do not provide enough relief to the heat, give Tiger a call at (361) 852-4450. We will be happy to come out and see what sort of cooling system work can be done to even out the temperature throughout your home.

My Air Conditioner Froze Up

6 REASONS WHY AN AC UNIT IS COVERED IN ICE 

It’s a bizarre sight, but not uncommon. On a sweltering Corpus Christi Day when the sun is shining, you find that your outside air conditioner is covered in ICE! 

What should you do when you have a frozen air conditioner? 

Calling Tiger Heating & Air is to come out and fix your AC will get you back up and running, but there are a few DIY steps you can try yourself. There may be a relatively simple problem causing your air conditioner to freeze up, and one you might be able to repair quickly and cheaply! 

We will go over the most likely reasons why ice develops on an air conditioner. Some have troubleshooting steps that many homeowners can try to tackle on their own. Other causes are best left to trained HVAC repair technicians who can accurately diagnose the problem and successfully resolve it. 

FROZEN AC UNIT: THE FIRST STEP 

No matter how your air conditioner froze up, there is an basic – yet critical – step you must do first. You need to get your AC unit thawed. And that starts at your thermostat. 

It is turning the thermostat to OFF. And then turn the fan ON. This will start the defrosting process. 

dont remove ice by hand - My Air Conditioner Froze Up

If it’s a hot day, your AC could be fully thawed in just a couple of hours.  

If the conditioned air is cool and the unit doesn’t freeze up again, you are good to go. If it does freeze up again, turn the air conditioner back OFF and the fan set to ON. Then you will need to call an experienced AC repair technician, like our fabulous HVAC team at Tiger, as you’ve got a bigger problem on your hand.  

6 MAIN REASONS FOR A FROZEN AIR CONDITIONER   

1. Dirty Air Filter 

Very dirty air filter that caused an AC unit to freeze up with ice

The most likely cause of a frozen air conditioner coil is not enough air flowing over the evaporator coils. The air that flows over your coils loses its heat to the coils, but if not enough air is flowing, the refrigerant gets too cold and might cause the coils to freeze.  

The leading reading why the airflow could be hampered is that your air filter is dirty. A dirty filter can block or clog airflow and is a common cause for an air conditioning unit to freeze up. 

While the AC unit is thawing out, check the air filter on your furnace. If it’s dark and dirty, replace it even if it’s not on schedule to be replaced yet. Many homeowners do not change their filters as frequently as they should.  

Once your air filter is replaced and the AC unit is thawed out, you should try to turn the AC back on at the thermostat and see if it works now. 

2. Blocked (or closed) return ducts 

There is a common misconception that you should close any vents that you don’t need to save on energy use and cost. That is not the case. The ductwork in your home, including the vents, was designed to work as a system. Closing off too much of this system can cause it not to work correctly. It may be okay to have a few vents closed, but this can cause problems, including a frozen AC unit if you have too many. 

Are any vents in your home closed or obstructed? Check the vents in your home to make sure they are open and not blocked. Move aside any items, including furniture or curtains, covering or blocking the vents.  

3. Low Refrigerant Levels 

Being low on refrigerant (freon) is the main reason why air conditioners freeze up. Often that indicates there is a leak in your system. This is a potentially dangerous problem and should be resolved only by a trained AC technician. 

Call Tiger Heating & Air for 24/7 emergency repair in Corpus Christi, TX

4. Dirty evaporator coils 

Dirty evaporator coils are another problem that can cause an air conditioner to freeze.  

If there is any buildup on these coils, they won’t be able to absorb the heat it needs to produce cool air for your home. If the filter is clean, and you still have poor airflow, it is likely being caused by a dirty coil. 

Performing annual maintenance on your system should keep this problem from happening. Tiger Heating & Air provides professional AC maintenance and tune-up service. Call us at 361-852-4450 to get a technician scheduled. 

5. Mechanical Failures 

Various mechanical problems can cause an outdoor unit to freeze. An HVAC system involves a lot of components. Perhaps there is a kink in a refrigerant line, or the blower fan is not working. These sorts of mechanical failures can cause the pressure to change in your system and make your air conditioner freeze up. 

Another problem that can cause ice to form on your air conditioner is a broken or malfunctioning blower motor. This part inside your AC makes sure that the fan blows return air over the evaporator coils. If not enough air moves over the coils, your air conditioner will get too cold and freeze up. 

6. Temperature is Cold Outside 

Did you leave your thermostat on COOL during a cold snap? If you are running your AC when the outside temperature dips into the 50s or below, the pressure inside of your system will drop. That is enough to cause a freeze-up of your air conditioner. 

Tiger AC repair technician in Corpus Christi

IS THE AC COMPLETELY FIXED? 

If one of the above problems was something you can tackle and fixed your frozen AC, that’s great! However, you are not out of the woods yet. You want to make sure that your air conditioning system doesn’t refreeze. Give it time, and make sure your system remains ice-free. If it freezes up again, that means that whatever troubleshooting step you did was not enough to fix the problem completely. You will need to call for a professional AC repair.  

Tiger Heating & Air is trained and experienced to service any type or model of air conditioner or cooling system. We provide 24/7 service to the entire Corpus Christi area and can be trusted to provide you with friendly, quality service at a fair price. Call on us to fix any AC problem! You can read reviews from people across Corpus Christi on why they say you can’t go wrong with Tiger! 

Call Tiger at (361) 852-4450 and let us how we can help you today! 

How to Stay Cool During a Heat Wave

Important Tips to Be Safe & Comfortable in a Hot Corpus Christi Summer

heat wave

We know how a Corpus Christi summer can be a scorcher, and it’s difficult to keep cool throughout the hottest months. Here are some ways to stay cool during these hot days from the Corpus Christi cooling experts at Tiger Heating & Air.

This post is for homeowners who are looking for ways to stay cool during a heatwave. We’ll cover topics like how to keep your house cooler, what clothes you should wear and even suggestions on what to eat. 

8 Steps to Stay Cool

  1. Drink water: Dehydration can make you feel worse in the heat. So drink lots of water!
  2. Wear light clothing: Light colors will reflect heat away from your body and dark colors absorb it instead. Keep the fabrics thin or loose for maximum breathability as well.
  3. Stay out of direct sunlight, especially during the peak hours between 10am to 4pm. If you must be outside, wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
  4. Set your thermostat temperature to between 74 – 78 degrees when you’re home and awake. Then set it to be just up a couple degrees when you’re sleeping. Program the temperature to raise to about 86 during the hours no one is home.
  5. Keep your home as cool as possible with window shades and fans to circulate air. While it might seem like an energy-saving tool to shut vents to rooms not in great use, be careful not to shut too many. Your home’s entire cooling system was designed to work with the vents open and shutting too many could disrupt the airflow and even damage your home’s air conditioning units.
  6. Eat cold foods and drink cold drinks (especially water – see tip #1). Cold food and beverages can help cool down your body.
  7. Avoid caffeine and alcohol which can dehydrate you.
  8. Take a cool shower or bath. It’s become trendy to take cold showers, as people claim it helps your mental and physical health. A hot Texas summer may be the perfect time to try out cold showers yourself!

We hope this article has been helpful in providing you with some tips and tricks to stay cool during a heatwave. If your AC breaks down, don’t panic! You can call Tiger Heating & Air for emergency AC repair service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Tiger Heating & Air has 24/7 emergency AC repair service in Corpus Christi, TX

Remember to schedule your annual AC maintenance checks early in the year before it turns hot. It will save both time and money by preventing a later AC repair emergency.

Broken AC? Call on Tiger for Repair

Owner of Tiger Heating & Air in Corpus CHristi driving hvac vehicle

Our experts are ready to provide the best customer service possible so give us a call today if you need help staying cool. Our team of experts will be happy to help fix the problem quickly.

And if you’re in the market for air conditioning installation services, we can help.

We know how important it is to keep you and your family safe and comfortable during a heatwave! When you need air conditioning repair, give Tiger a call at 361-852-4450.

What is the AC SEER Rating?

Tiger Heating & Air AC technicians at ac repair shop

Understanding SEER & Texas requirements for air conditioners

Tiger Heating & Air AC technicians studying SEER rating at Corpus Christi shop

Let’s discuss one of the most misunderstood terms about air conditioning – the SEER rating. SEER is one of the most essential factors in determining what AC to purchase, but it is a confusing matter for many homeowners.

At Tiger Heating & Air, we know a well-informed customer is a happy customer with a home that keeps them comfortable for many years to come. So we want to provide you with the most basic (yet important) pieces of information to understand the SEER rating. You will learn why it’s important to understand before making any change to your home’s cooling system.

Why do I need to understand the SEER rating?

The bottom line is that understanding what the SEER rating is can end up saving you money. A home cooling system is a significant investment for your home. You’re will spend thousands of dollars on getting it installed. And then you will continue to spend thousands more on your energy bills. But how much you spend each month depends a lot on the SEER rating of your AC unit. An air-conditioner with a good SEER rating can save you hundreds of dollars on your energy costs each year!

What is the SEER Rating?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is a measurement of the amount of energy your AC will need to consume in order to operate. SEER is a ratio of how much cool air your system puts out for each unit of energy it consumes. It’s a complex math formula, but it’s all about “tons.” A ton of cooling equals about the energy needed to melt 1 ton of ice over a 24-hour period.

Do I Want a High or Low SEER Rating?

Generally speaking, an AC with a higher SEER rating is better. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient that air conditioner will be. But that doesn’t mean you should simply get the air conditioner with the highest SEER rating there is. You always need to make sure you are getting the perfect system for your home. How high of a SEER rating you should look for depends on a few factors, such as the size of your house and where you live.

Ready to throw your old AC to the curb? Call Tiger Heating & Air for new cooling installation

What SEER rating is Needed for Corpus Christi Homes?

The U.S. Department of Energy requires all new AC units to meet certain levels of energy efficiency. These levels are determined by the SEER rating.

In 1992, the government enacted the first-ever SEER efficiency standards. Back then, it was common for homeowners to have an AC with a SEER of just 8 or 9. The first SEER rating required all new AC units installed in homes to be at least SEER 10. Despite Texas and other southern states having greater cooling demands than the rest of the country, this SEER 10 minimum rating was for all states.

In 2006, the DOE increased the minimum standard to 13. But regulation changes were on the way, and different climate regions were treated separately.

In 2015, government regulators raised the SEER minimum to 14 for split system central air conditioners for Texas and other states in the country’s Southeastern region. And another SEER change is on its way. Starting in 2023, only ACs with a 15 SEER or higher can be installed.

Back when the first regulations started, some homes had AC units that were as low as 6 SEER. Today, it is not uncommon to see many in the 20s. Tiger Heating & Air are Corpus Christi’s certified Trane Comfort Specialists. We can install a new, efficient Trane air conditioner in your home that range from 14.5 SEER up to 22.

Are you looking for help on determining what new cooling system is right for you? Give Tiger a call at (361) 852-4450, or you can check out Trane’s HVAC Tips & Buying Guide.

AC technician & owner driving Tiger Heating & Air HVAC van in Corpus Christi
Upgrading SEER for annual savings on home energy chart from Trane

How Much Money Can a High SEER Rating Save Me?

Unfortunately, there isn’t an absolute answer. There are various factors that determine a home’s ongoing energy costs, such as the size and amount of insulation. However, increasing your home’s SEER rating by 10 can result in your air conditioner using half as much energy. How much will a higher SEER system save you? See what your current system’s rating is, and you can find out how much money you will save in energy costs with this online calculator.

How To Use the SEER Rating To Shop for a New AC

Knowing how SEER factors into how much energy you use each money makes you better able to compare different air conditioning systems. The SEER rating tells you which units will expend the least amount of energy and save you money on your utility bills.

As we’ve mentioned, SEER isn’t the only factor to consider when purchasing a new air conditioner. Our experienced Tiger Heating & Air AC technicians can help assess your home’s specific needs to help you determine which cooling system and unit is suitable for your home.

With several decades of experience installing air conditioning units in homes across Corpus Christi, you can trust Tiger Heating & Air to find the best home cooling options for you. Call us today at (361) 852-4450.

Best Air Conditioners to buy in 2021 blog post

corpus christi hvac team of technicians at Tiger Heating & AirTiger Heating and Air has been a trusted name in Corpus Christi since 1984. Whether it’s a repair, installation or maintenance, trust our team of experienced HVAC technicians to be ready to deliver the services you need. We are trained and experienced to service whatever type of heating or cooling system is in your home. We also provide professional indoor air quality services.

We are located off of TX-358, just a few miles from the exit toward Saratoga Blvd from 286 South. Call us for service any time of day or night at (361) 852-4450.

Get a free quote and see why we are the Corpus Christi company homeowners and businesses trust for honest and fair pricing. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed!

We are located just off of TX-358. Heading south, take the exit toward Saratoga Blvd from 286 South. Turn left onto Saratoga Blvd, then 3 miles down the road, turn right onto Weber Rd and another right onto Wow Rd just across the street from the post office.

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