South Texas presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for HVAC contractors and homeowners alike. From blistering summer heat to high humidity and coastal salt‐air corrosion, the demands on cooling and heating systems here are distinct. At Johnstone Supply South Texas, we’re committed to helping contractors stay ahead of regional HVAC trends and equipping homeowners with practical ideas for comfort, efficiency, and reliability. In this post, we’ll explore key industry developments—tailored to South Texas—and offer actionable insights for anyone working or living in the Rio Grande Valley, Corpus Christi, Laredo, McAllen, and beyond.
1. Region-Driven Climate Demands
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Year-Round Cooling Needs: Unlike more temperate climates, South Texas sees extremely long cooling seasons—often 9–10 months each year. Contractors should anticipate higher run-times, meaning equipment selection must heavily weigh on durability and energy efficiency.
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High Humidity and Indoor Air Quality: Humidity in coastal regions (e.g., Corpus Christi, Port Isabel) routinely exceeds 80% in summer. This drives greater demand for dehumidification capabilities—either built into central systems (e.g., two-stage compressors, variable-speed fans) or standalone whole-home dehumidifiers. Addressing indoor air quality (IAQ) is not optional; it’s a necessity for occupant health and mold prevention.
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Coastal Corrosion Considerations: Salt spray can corrode coils, refrigerant lines, and even indoor components in homes near the Gulf Coast. Contractors are increasingly specifying copper-nickel or coated coils (e.g., Bluefin®), corrosion-resistant hardware, and sealed, weather-protected electrical compartments to prolong equipment life.
2. Embracing Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
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SEER 2 and Beyond: With the recent U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) updates to efficiency standards (SEER 2 goes into effect January 2023), South Texas contractors are evaluating systems rated SEER 2 or higher. High-SEER 2 systems not only reduce monthly utility bills during peak months (June–September) but also help homeowners qualify for local utility rebates and tax incentives.
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Variable-Speed and Modulating Technology: Variable-speed compressors and modulating gas furnaces are becoming more prevalent. By adjusting capacity to match the exact load, these systems run longer at lower speeds—enhancing humidity control and reducing temperature swings. In South Texas’s humid climate, a variable-speed system can remove up to 25–30% more moisture than a single-stage unit.
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Renewable Integration (Solar-Ready HVAC): Solar installations are on the rise across South Texas—especially in cities like Harlingen and Brownsville, where utility costs remain relatively high. Contractors can spec solar-ready heat pump water heaters or pair mini-splits with on-roof photovoltaic (PV) arrays. When the grid is under strain during summer heat waves, solar-powered systems help offset peak demand and protect against rolling brownouts.
