Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company encourages homeowners to schedule regular heat pump service in Alamo Heights, TX. Preventative maintenance can save you money and headaches. You should also call us for heat pump repair at the first signs of an issue. Modern heat pumps are highly efficient, but minor issues can throw that efficiency out of whack. That can result in a much higher electricity bill. The problem can also worsen, resulting in a more expensive repair or replacement. If you’ve reached this point, we can help you with a new heat pump installation to make your home comfortable again.
"They are very Reliable and punctual. All of the Service Techs and helpers are very professional and know what they are doing. Over and above customer service."
A common problem is a heat pump that won’t turn on. Perhaps it’s the first time you’ve used the system this season, or it’s been running and then just stopped. Often, this is a power problem. You can check the circuit breaker and reset it once if tripped. But if it trips again, call us right away because it indicates a more severe problem. There might also be a failed component, such as a starter capacitor, reversing valve, or a major refrigerant leak.
Another common problem is a heat pump running but turning on and off frequently. One potential cause is a clogged air filter that restricts airflow too much and causes the system to trip. An electrical problem or a compressor issue can also cause overheating. It can also indicate a minor refrigerant leak or evaporator coil problem. Our HVAC technicians can fix these issues quickly and get your home comfortable again.
When should you opt for heat pump installation over another repair? One consideration is cost. If a repair will cost you 50% or more of what a new system would, we’ll generally recommend replacement. The other consideration is system age. After 15 years, your heat pump isn’t as efficient as it once was and will need lots more repairs. Newer heat pumps are much more efficient than those made a decade or longer ago.
Watch for these signs that you may need heat pump repair or replacement:
Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company is a locally owned and operated HVAC company that’s served Alamo Heights for over a decade. We are an ACCA and TACCA member that employs NATE-certified technicians. We are also a proud Trane Comfort Specialist, but we install and service all heat pump models. Our team also prides itself on excellence in customer service and care. That approach has earned BBB accreditation with an A+ rating and many five-star reviews.
Heat pumps work very well in Alamo Heights because our winters are usually mild and our summers are long and warm. A single high efficiency heat pump can cool your home in the summer and provide steady, comfortable heat when cold fronts move through. That means you are running one system instead of separate heating and cooling equipment, which can lower energy use and simplify maintenance. Many homeowners in the San Antonio area choose a heat pump when they want reliable year round comfort and the chance to trim their utility bills without giving up comfort.
Modern heat pumps are designed to perform well in climates like Alamo Heights where temperatures bounce between cool and warm. During a typical north wind cold snap, a properly sized heat pump can still pull enough heat from the outdoor air to keep indoor temperatures comfortable. Many systems also include auxiliary or backup heat that turns on automatically if the outdoor temperature drops lower than usual. If you are concerned about cold weather performance, Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company can recommend models that are tested for higher efficiency at lower outdoor temperatures.
Most homes in Alamo Heights benefit from having a heat pump serviced once a year, ideally before peak cooling season. In our hot, dusty climate, many homeowners choose a checkup in spring for cooling and a quick inspection in fall before the unit works in heating mode. Regular cleaning, checking refrigerant levels, testing electrical components, and verifying airflow help the system run efficiently and can catch small issues before they lead to higher electric bills or a breakdown. Scheduling routine maintenance with Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company also helps preserve comfort during long San Antonio summers.
Overall efficiency is not just about the heat pump model. For Alamo Heights and nearby San Antonio neighborhoods, the quality of your ductwork, home insulation, window condition, and thermostat habits all play a big role. A high efficiency heat pump connected to leaky ducts in a hot attic will not perform as well as it should. Proper sizing, correct refrigerant charge, clean coils, and a programmable or smart thermostat also help the system use less energy. During an in home visit, Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company can look at your equipment and home conditions to suggest improvements that support better heat pump performance.
Many Alamo Heights homeowners see lower utility bills after upgrading to a properly sized, high efficiency heat pump, especially if they are replacing older electric resistance heat or an aging air conditioner and furnace. Heat pumps move heat instead of generating it, which usually uses less electricity for the same comfort level. The biggest savings in our area often show up during the shoulder seasons when the heat pump can run at lower output instead of cycling a traditional furnace. A comfort specialist from Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company can compare your current system with modern heat pump options and explain what to expect based on your home and usage.
Choosing the right size heat pump is important for comfort and efficiency in our part of Bexar County. A unit that is too small will struggle on the hottest San Antonio days, while a system that is too large may cycle on and off often and wear out faster. Instead of guessing based on square footage alone, Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company can perform a detailed load calculation that considers insulation levels, window orientation, ceiling height, air leakage, and local weather data. That calculation helps match your home to the correct capacity so rooms feel even and the system runs as efficiently as possible.
In some Alamo Heights homes, especially older houses, condos, or properties with additions, a ductless mini split heat pump can be a smart option. Mini splits provide heating and cooling to specific rooms without using traditional ductwork, which helps when existing ducts are hard to reach or not in good condition. They allow you to set different temperatures in different areas and can improve comfort in hot upstairs rooms or converted garage spaces. If your home already has a good duct system, a central heat pump may still be the best fit. Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company can walk you through both options so you can choose what works best for your layout and comfort goals.
A light layer of frost on the outdoor unit can be normal, but heavy ice that does not melt during the defrost cycle is a sign that something is wrong. First, make sure the outdoor unit has good airflow and is not blocked by leaves or debris. Never chip ice off the equipment, since that can damage the coil or fan. If the ice buildup continues or your home starts to feel less comfortable, turn the system off at the thermostat and reach out to Air Authority, A Riteway Service Company for a professional inspection. A trained technician can check refrigerant levels, defrost controls, and other components to get your heat pump working safely again in our changing Texas weather.