Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Modern cold-climate models use variable-speed compressors that keep producing heat in sub-zero conditions, some tested down to minus 23°F. In Midlothian, where hard freezes are brief, a correctly sized heat pump handles winter comfortably.

A heat pump moves heat rather than creating it. In winter it pulls heat energy from the outdoor air and transfers it indoors; in summer it reverses to cool your home, all while running efficiently.

In energy conversion, yes. Heat pumps run two to four times more efficiently because they transfer heat. A gas furnace delivers hotter air faster, so the best choice depends on your home and local rates.

Gas heating burns fuel to produce fast warmth. Electric heating uses resistance elements or a heat pump with no combustion, so no carbon monoxide risk. Gas heats quicker; electric installs simpler and often lasts longer.

Electric furnaces last longer, often 20 to 30 years, thanks to fewer parts and no combustion stress. Gas furnaces typically last 15 to 20 years. Regular maintenance and correct sizing help either reach its peak.

Replace a 1-inch filter every 30 days and thicker 4- to 5-inch filters every 6 to 12 months. Homes with pets or heavy North Texas summer use may need changes every 30 to 45 days.

At Moore Comfort Care Heating and Air Conditioning, we recommend service at least once a year, ideally twice: a spring cooling tune-up and a fall heating check. Gas systems also need this yearly safety inspection.

A well-maintained central air conditioner typically lasts 15 to 20 years. North Texas heat and heavy summer runtime can shorten that. If yours is over 15 years old or failing often, consider planning a replacement.

SEER2, Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2, is the cooling efficiency rating the Department of Energy adopted in January 2023. Its tougher test better reflects real ductwork, and a higher SEER2 number means greater efficiency.

New split-system heat pumps must meet 14.3 SEER2 nationwide, while ENERGY STAR models reach 15.2 or higher. For our warm Texas climate, a rating in the mid to high teens usually offers the best value.

AFUE, or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, shows how much fuel becomes heat. Standard gas furnaces reach near 80 percent; condensing models hit 90 to 98 percent. A 95 percent standard arrives in late 2028.

In North Texas, a properly sized heat pump can heat a home on its own. During rare deep freezes, backup electric heat or a paired gas furnace ensures comfort. We assess your home first.

A hybrid system pairs a heat pump with a gas furnace and switches automatically for best efficiency. The heat pump handles mild weather, while the furnace takes over in extreme cold, cutting yearly energy use.

Yes, that is a heat pump's defining advantage. The same unit cools in summer and heats in winter by reversing how it moves heat, which is why heat pumps outsell both furnaces and air conditioners.

The right size comes from a professional load calculation, not a rule of thumb. Oversized units short-cycle and waste energy; undersized ones struggle. We factor in your square footage, insulation, windows, and local climate.

Common causes include a clogged filter, low refrigerant, a dirty outdoor coil, a failing capacitor, or a thermostat fault. Try replacing the filter and clearing debris; if cooling stalls, our technicians can diagnose it.

Since January 1, 2025, all newly manufactured residential air conditioners and heat pumps must use lower-impact A2L refrigerants, replacing R-410A. Existing systems still operate and can be serviced, so working equipment needs no replacement.

Consider replacement when the system tops 15 years, repairs grow frequent, bills climb, or comfort turns uneven. A cracked heat exchanger or failed compressor often signals it; Moore Comfort Care will guide the smarter choice.

Start with the basics: change filters on schedule, seal duct leaks, add attic insulation, and keep the outdoor unit clear. A smart thermostat and annual tune-ups help, and a right-sized upgrade delivers the biggest savings.