FAQ

“If your air conditioner is running but your home still feels warm, there’s usually a simple reason behind it — and most of the time, it’s something we can fix quickly.

The most common cause is a dirty air filter. When your filter gets clogged, it blocks airflow and keeps cool air from circulating properly. Other possible issues include low refrigerant, a frozen coil, or a dirty outdoor condenser that can’t release heat the way it should.

You’ll also want to make sure your thermostat is set to ‘cool’ and your fan to ‘auto’ instead of ‘on.’ If the system runs constantly but never cools down, it could be a refrigerant or compressor issue that needs a professional look.

A quick service check can usually get you back up and running — and catching small problems early can save you from a big repair later.”

— Mike Graham Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

“There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to air-conditioning units — every home cools a little differently. The right size depends on your square footage, insulation, number of windows, ceiling height, and even how much sun your home gets during the day.

A system that’s too small will struggle to cool your home, running nonstop and wearing itself out early. One that’s too large will cycle on and off too often, leaving hot spots and wasting energy.

That’s why we always start with a professional load calculation before recommending a system. It’s the only way to make sure your new unit is perfectly matched to your home for comfort, efficiency, and long-term performance.

If you’re thinking about replacing your system, give us a call — we’ll size it right the first time.”

— Mike Graham Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

For most homes, the type and size of your filter determine how often it should be changed.
Here’s a good rule of thumb we tell our customers:

• 1-inch filters: change every month
• 2-inch filters: change every 2–3 months
• 4–5-inch filters: can often last up to 6 months

If you have pets, allergies, or anyone with breathing issues, check the filter more often.

Keeping a clean filter lets your system breathe easier, cool faster, and use less energy.
It’s just as important to use the right type of filter — one that’s efficient without being so restrictive that it strains the blower motor.

When in doubt, give us a call. We’ll help you choose the best filter for your setup and remind you when it’s time for a change.
— Mike Graham Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

“Most air conditioners last around 10 to 15 years, depending on how well they’ve been maintained and how hard they’ve had to work in our Texas heat.

If your system is getting close to that age, you may start noticing signs it’s time to think about replacement — things like longer run times, higher energy bills, uneven cooling, or frequent repairs.

Sometimes a good tune-up or part replacement can buy you a little more time, but if repairs are starting to add up or your system still uses the old R-22 refrigerant, it’s usually smarter to invest in a new, energy-efficient unit.

We always start with an honest inspection so you’ll know whether your A/C just needs a little help or it’s ready for retirement.”

— Mike Graham Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

“You don’t have to sacrifice comfort to save money on cooling. A few small habits and a little maintenance can make a big difference in how efficiently your A/C runs.

Start with the basics — change your air filter regularly, keep your outdoor unit clear of grass and debris, and have your system serviced at least once a year. A clean, well-tuned unit doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home.

Use a programmable thermostat to raise the temperature a few degrees while you’re away, close blinds during the hottest part of the day, and make sure your ductwork is sealed properly to prevent cool air leaks.

If your system is over 10 years old, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency unit — today’s models can save you up to 30% on energy costs.

A little upkeep goes a long way toward keeping your home cool and your electric bill under control.”

— Mike Graham Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

“Before you flip your thermostat to cool for the first time each year, take a few minutes to make sure your system’s ready to go. A quick check now can save you from a hot house — and an emergency service call — later.

Here’s what we recommend:
✅ Change your air filter. A clean filter helps your system breathe easier and cool more efficiently.
✅ Clear debris around the outdoor unit. Remove leaves, grass, or dirt that could block airflow.
✅ Check your thermostat. Make sure it’s set to cool and working properly.
✅ Inspect your vents. Open them up and vacuum out dust or pet hair.
✅ Check your A/C drain line. Look for standing water or algae buildup near the drain and flush it with a mixture of water and bleach if needed to prevent clogs.
✅ Schedule your annual maintenance. A professional tune-up catches small problems early and keeps your system running smooth all summer long.

Turning your A/C on the right way each spring helps it cool better, last longer, and save money on energy bills.

— Mike Graham Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

A running toilet usually means a worn-out flapper, faulty fill valve, or mis-adjusted float. It wastes gallons of water and increases your bill fast. Our licensed plumbers can quickly replace bad parts, reseal the tank, and make sure everything flushes smoothly. If your toilet keeps running or won’t flush, call Mike Graham Plumbing—we offer same-day toilet repairs in Burkburnett, Wichita Falls, and the surrounding North Texas area.

Try plunging first, then check for hair or debris at the surface. Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners—they often eat away at your pipes. If water still isn’t draining, the clog may be deep in the line. We use professional drain cleaning and high-pressure jetting to cut through grease and buildup fast. From kitchen sinks to main sewer lines, we can fix it—just call 940-569-5422 for quick service.

Low pressure may mean mineral buildup, corrosion, or a hidden leak. Too-high pressure can stress fittings and cause burst pipes. Our team can test your home’s water pressure, locate leaks, and install or adjust regulators to protect your plumbing system. Don’t guess—let the experts at Mike Graham Plumbing make sure your water pressure is safe and steady for every faucet and shower.

If your water heater isn’t producing enough hot water, it could be a failed heating element, thermostat issue, or sediment buildup in the tank. If it runs out quickly, the unit may be undersized or need flushing. We service, repair, and replace both tank and tankless water heaters, restoring reliable hot water fast. Call today and we’ll have your showers steaming again in no time!

Look for unexplained wet spots, warped flooring, musty smells, or higher-than-normal water bills. Hidden leaks can damage walls, foundations, and flooring before you ever see them. Our plumbers use time tested methods to locate leaks under slabs or behind walls. Early detection saves thousands in damage—schedule a leak inspection today with Mike Graham Plumbing.

Check under sinks for drips, listen for running toilets, and never pour grease down your drains. If you notice slow drains or water spots, don’t ignore them—small issues can turn into expensive repairs fast. At Mike Graham Plumbing, we offer professional plumbing inspections to catch leaks, corrosion, and early warning signs before they cause damage. Schedule a plumbing inspection today and keep your system running smoothly—we can fix it before it breaks.