AC Repair in Longview, TX A Homeowner’s Guide: What to Check, What to Ask, and How to Verify a Licence
Longview summers are long, hot and humid, so an AC problem can’t wait long. Use this guide to try the simple checks first, describe the problem clearly, and choose a licensed AC contractor.
Five checks before you book an AC repair
- Thermostat: set to “cool”, a few degrees below room temperature, with fresh batteries.
- Breakers: check the breakers for the indoor unit and the outdoor unit.
- Filter: a clogged filter can stop airflow and freeze the coil. ENERGY STAR advises checking it every month and changing it at least every 3 months.
- Outdoor unit: clear leaves, grass and anything piled close to it.
- Drain line: if water is around the indoor unit, the condensate drain may be clogged (next section).
Water leaking from the AC? It is usually the condensate line
In humid East Texas weather, an AC pulls a lot of water out of the air. That water runs out through a small condensate drain line. When algae or dirt clog the line, water backs up into the drain pan, overflows, or trips a safety switch that turns the AC off. Attic units can leak through the ceiling.
- Turn the AC off if water is overflowing.
- Check the pan under the indoor unit and empty it if you can.
- If the line stays clogged or water comes through a ceiling, book a licensed AC contractor.
What is wrong with my AC?
Use this table to describe the problem clearly when you call an AC contractor.
| What you notice | Common causes | How urgent |
|---|---|---|
| Blowing warm air | Low refrigerant, failed capacitor, dirty coil | Soon, especially in summer heat |
| Outdoor unit not running | Breaker, capacitor, contactor | Soon |
| Ice on the lines or coil | Clogged filter, low airflow, low refrigerant | Turn off and let it thaw first |
| Water around the indoor unit | Clogged condensate line or full pan | Today (attic units: now) |
| Runs all the time, house never cools | Undersized or failing system, duct leaks | Soon |
| Burning smell or tripping breaker | Electrical fault | Now: turn it off |
How to verify a Texas AC contractor’s licence
In Texas, air conditioning contractors are licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
- Ask for the licence number. It starts with TACL.
- Look for it on the contractor’s vehicles, advertising, proposals and invoices: Texas rules require it there.
- Check it on the TDLR licence search (tdlr.texas.gov/LicenseSearch), under air conditioning contractors.
- Make sure the name on the licence matches the company you are hiring.
What to ask an AC contractor before a repair
- What is your TACL licence number?
- Is there a diagnostic fee, and is it taken off the repair?
- What exactly failed, and can you show me?
- Is the part covered by the manufacturer’s warranty?
- What would a replacement cost, for comparison?
- Is there an after-hours rate?
Repair or replace the AC?
ENERGY STAR suggests considering replacement when the system is over 10 years old, has repeat problems, or needs costly repairs. Some contractors also use the “$5,000 rule”: the system’s age times the repair cost; above $5,000, replacement is often worth pricing. It is an industry rule of thumb, not an official standard. A newer system with one failed part is usually worth repairing.
Renting? Who arranges the AC repair?
About 45% of Longview homes are rented. If you rent, report an AC problem to your landlord or property manager in writing first, and keep a copy. Your lease says who arranges and pays for repairs.
AC unit leaking into a ceiling or near plumbing?
An overflowing condensate pan in the attic can soak a ceiling, and attic water heaters often sit next to AC units. If water is coming through a ceiling and you are not sure whether it is the AC or a water line, turn off the AC and the water heater, then call (903) 212-9500. See also water heater repair and emergency plumbing.
AC repair questions
Why is my AC running but not cooling?
Common causes are a clogged filter, a dirty outdoor coil, low refrigerant or a failed capacitor. Check the filter first.
How often should I change my AC filter?
ENERGY STAR advises checking it every month, especially in summer, changing it when it looks dirty, and changing it at least every 3 months.
Why is my AC leaking water inside?
Usually a clogged condensate line or a full drain pan.
How do I check an AC contractor’s licence in Texas?
Ask for the TACL number and look it up on the TDLR licence search.
How long does an AC last?
ENERGY STAR suggests considering replacement once a central AC or heat pump is more than 10 years old. Many last longer with good maintenance.
