Texas Home Heating in an Era of Extreme Heat

As climate change pushes Texas temperatures higher, homeowners and heating professionals alike are facing a new reality. A recent Texas Tribune analysis found that record-breaking heat is becoming the new normal in Texas, with dangerous summer heat waves spreading from the Mexican border to Dallas. Over the last decade, Texas weather stations recorded over 1,600 days of record-high temperatures, more than 1,000 above the previous average. These trends aren’t limited to summer: fewer record-cold days are being observed statewide.

This climate shift has profound implications for home heating and energy use. We traditionally think of heating systems in terms of winter comfort, but hotter summers and milder winters force us to rethink home heating and energy strategies. For example, extreme heat is straining the state’s electric grid (as air conditioners run flat-out) and reducing the window for power plant maintenance. Yet this same heat can mean a shorter heating season and new choices in how we heat homes (often with all-electric systems).

In this guide, we write as heating-system professionals to help Texas homeowners adapt. We draw on Texas Tribune reporting, energy experts, and government sources to explain what record heat means for your furnace, heat pump, thermostat and insulation. We also give practical home-improvement advice — on attic ventilation, sealing ducts, and weatherization — and point out Texas-specific incentives (from federal tax credits to local utility rebates) to make those upgrades affordable. We’ll even compare what works best from the humid Gulf Coast to the dry Panhandle. Our goal is to leave you informed, empowered, and ready to make your home more comfortable and efficient in the age of extreme heat.

Record Heat is Here: Texas by the Numbers

Texas summers have always been hot, but now they’re hitting new highs. The Tribune’s analysis reports “hotter days and nights” and “more record highs” across the state. For example, a brutal heat wave recently delivered three weeks of 100+°F days from El Paso to Dallas, shattering records. In west Texas, the Panhandle, and the Gulf Coast, the jump in extreme heat is especially dramatic: Amarillo had 100 record-hot days in the past decade (over 4× the historic average), and El Paso saw 113 record-hot days – more than five times what’d be expected in a normal decade. By contrast, heavily forested East Texas has fared better so far (Longview had about 27 record highs, near normal), but experts warn that no corner of Texas is immune as climate warming accelerates.

This hotter climate is not just a number — it’s deadly and costly. Heat is now the leading weather killer in Texas, claiming hundreds of lives each year. The Tribune notes that 275 Texans died of heat-related illness last year, a two-decade high that’s likely undercounted. Heat waves persist for days on end, stressing people (especially the very young, elderly or poor) and infrastructure alike. Civil engineers warn that even a few degrees of temperature increase can jeopardize the electric grid (demand spikes when everyone cranks AC) and damage dams built for cooler past climates. ERCOT, the state grid operator, is already warning of record demand this summer.

For homeowners, what does this mean? It’s a double challenge: our air conditioners will work harder (and cost more) than ever, and any weakness in home insulation or HVAC efficiency will be magnified. On the other hand, milder winters mean your furnace might run less. Either way, it pays to adapt. As Texas energy experts say, a tight, efficient home and modern equipment lowers bills and improves comfort even as the climate warms.

Rethinking Heating Systems for a Hotter Home

In Texas, we often talk about air conditioning when it’s 100+ degrees, but heating systems are still important and are changing in response to climate trends. Here are the key options:

Modern Furnaces and Hybrid Systems

Gas furnaces are still widely used in Texas for winter heat. Even as winters become milder, a reliable furnace can protect against sudden cold snaps (Texas can still see freezing weather). Today’s high-efficiency furnaces (with 90–98% AFUE ratings) use far less fuel than older models. As a heating professional, we advise homeowners to tune up and replace aging furnaces when needed: a 15-year-old furnace may have lost up to 20% efficiency from normal wear and tear, so swapping in a new 95% AFUE model can cut gas use substantially.

One smart option is a dual-fuel or hybrid system that pairs an electric heat pump with a gas furnace. In moderate winter temperatures, the system runs on the heat pump (efficient and all-electric); if temperatures fall below the heat pump’s sweet spot, the furnace kicks in. As the climate warms, most Texas winters are well within the heat pump’s range, meaning the furnace might rarely run — but it’s a safety net for the coldest nights. Hybrid systems offer flexibility and can lower total energy costs. For example, in North Texas a homeowner might let the heat pump run down to 35°F, saving on natural gas, and only use the gas furnace if temps go into the 20s.

Heat Pumps: Heating and Cooling in One

Heat pumps are becoming increasingly popular in Texas because they both heat and cool. An air-source heat pump works like an air conditioner in summer (extracting heat from indoors) and reverses to heat in winter. Modern “cold-climate” heat pumps can operate efficiently even at 0°F. That means one device can serve year-round.

From a heating perspective, heat pumps have high energy efficiency (higher than most electric furnaces or older gas furnaces). The Texas Tribune reports that switching to a heat pump could save about $480 per year on utility bills for a typical household. Heat pumps also use electricity, so they can run off cleaner energy sources as Texas adds more wind and solar (though peak grid stress in summer is still an issue). In practice, many Texas homes with heat pumps still have a “backup” heat strip or furnace, but in our experience as installers, we see these rarely used if the heat pump is sized properly.

A caveat: heat pump air handlers must be well-matched to home size and ductwork. We recommend hiring a qualified installer to do a Manual J load calculation. Undersized heat pumps will struggle in extreme cold, and oversized units can short-cycle. Also, ductless mini-split heat pumps are an option for room-by-room zoning, especially in older homes lacking central ducts.

Smart Thermostats and Controls

One of the simplest upgrades for a heating pro to recommend is a smart thermostat. These Wi-Fi thermostats “learn” your schedule, detect when no one’s home, and can automatically set back temperatures. In a hotter climate, a smart thermostat can pre-cool or pre-heat at off-peak times or respond to weather forecasts, improving comfort and cutting energy use. Many utility companies in Texas even offer rebates or free thermostats to customers who enroll in energy-saving programs.

Smart thermostats also enable demand-response programs. For instance, some Texas utilities let you link your thermostat to their grid alerts; on extremely hot days, the thermostat will momentarily adjust by a degree or two to ease peak demand, and you get a bill credit. This kind of technology helps the grid stay stable when everyone wants AC, and saves you money. (Check if your provider — like Austin Energy or Oncor — has a “thermostat discount” program.)

In short, think of a smart thermostat as an investment: it pays back through both lower energy bills and any utility incentives. Energy experts estimate a homeowner can shave roughly 10% off heating/cooling bills by using a programmable or smart thermostat (and more if used conscientiously).

Weatherization and Insulation: Keeping Heat Out (and Warmth In)

In a hotter climate, the importance of your home’s shell (envelope) is magnified. “Weatherization” means sealing and insulating your home so that conditioned air stays in, and outside heat and humidity stay out. Good weatherization pays double dividends: it keeps cool air in during Texas summers and reduces the small heating need in winter.

Attic insulation: The attic is often the weakest link. In summer, a sun-baked roof can heat the attic to 140°F or more, transferring heat into living spaces. We recommend adding high-R insulation (R-30 to R-49 for ceilings) in Texas. Fiberglass batts, blown cellulose or spray foam under the roof deck can cut that transfer dramatically. In fact, the U.S. Energy Star program suggests doing the attic insulation before installing a new heat pump or furnace — that way, your new system doesn’t have to overwork and you maximize available tax credits. (Under the new tax rules, you can get up to $1,200 credit for home insulation improvements plus up to $2,000 for a heat pump installation if done together.)

Wall and floor insulation: If you have an older or uninsulated home, consider insulating exterior walls (usually R-13 or better) and floors over unconditioned crawl spaces (R-19+). Insulation slows heat gain through walls and floors. Even spraying foam insulation into wall cavities or using insulated vinyl siding can help. The Building Codes Assistance Project notes that Texas homes were built under weaker codes before 2001, so many are under-insulated. Upgrading wall and attic insulation is one of the most cost-effective retrofits you can make.

Air sealing: Equally important is sealing cracks and gaps. Seal air leaks around doors, windows, plumbing penetrations, and especially the attic access hatch. Use caulk for gaps under 1/4 inch and expanding foam or weatherstripping for larger holes. A “blower door” test (available from home energy auditors) can identify leaks you might miss. Every crack you seal means less hot air infiltrating in summer (and warm air escaping in winter). Texas homeowners often skip air sealing, but it’s quick and cheap relative to the gains: it can reduce HVAC run-time by tightening the envelope.

Attic ventilation and radiant barriers: Ventilating the attic can also help. Ridge vents, soffit vents, or powered attic fans will remove super-hot air that builds under the roof. In dry West Texas, running a large solar attic fan (on a thermostat) can pull out hot air and slightly cool the attic. Some homes add radiant barriers (reflective foil on the underside of the roof) to bounce sunlight’s heat back out. Radiant barriers are most effective in Texas’s hot climate, further cutting attic temperatures by 10–20°F. Of course, always ensure proper airflow with soffit/ridge vents so hot air has a path out.

Windows and doors: Leaky or single-pane windows and doors are also common weak spots. Consider installing ENERGY STAR® windows or applying low-e film; they cut UV/IR heat transfer. Use foam gasket kits or door sweeps to seal around frames. Heavy thermal curtains or shades on sunny windows can lower interior heat gain. Together, these weatherization measures make your HVAC’s job much easier.

Implementing these retrofits might cost upfront, but federal tax credits and rebates can offset costs. For example, under the Inflation Reduction Act, you can claim 30% of the cost (up to $600) for insulating materials. Plus, Texas is set to launch new federal rebate programs: the HOMES rebate will cover up to 80% of retrofit costs for low-income homes (up to $8,000 for deep retrofits), and the Home Electrification rebates cover heat pumps ($8,000 max) and up to $1,600 for insulation.

Ductwork, Airflow, and Maintenance: Fine-Tuning the System

An often-overlooked point is your ductwork. In many Texas homes, ducts run through the unconditioned attic or crawlspaces. Leaks in ductwork can lose 10–30% of heated/cooled air. In a heat wave, every inefficiency is magnified. We advise homeowners to have ducts inspected and sealed. Use mastic (not cheap cloth tape) on seams and joints, and add insulation wrap (R-8) to ducts in the attic. Sealed, insulated ducts can dramatically improve system efficiency and comfort.

Similarly, keep vents and air returns unobstructed and balanced. Installing proper-length vent sleeves or collars in the ceiling/walls helps ensure airflow reaches the room and doesn’t short-circuit. For zoning, you might add dampers to balance cool/hot spots, or upgrade to a variable-speed blower that adjusts to the home’s needs.

HVAC Tune-Ups: Just like sealing leaks, regular maintenance is crucial. Change filters quarterly (more in dusty West Texas). Have a pro clean the evaporator coil and condenser coil annually; dirty coils reduce efficiency. Ensure refrigerant is charged correctly — low refrigerant can freeze the coil and stop cooling on a 110°F day. Our experience is that a simple tune-up (cleaning and calibration) can restore 10–15% of lost efficiency and help avoid mid-summer breakdowns. (Broken AC during a heat wave is both expensive and dangerous.)

Humidity Control: In humid regions like Houston or Beaumont, controlling moisture is part of the cooling challenge. High indoor humidity feels hotter and can cause mold. Make sure attic vents or gable vents are not blocked, and use exhaust fans in bathrooms/kitchens. If dehumidification is an issue, consider a HVAC system with a dedicated dehumidifier or a heat-pump that can ramp up dehumidification mode. Even portable dehumidifiers can ease the load on your air conditioner.

Efficient Equipment Upgrades and Retrofits

When it’s time to replace major components, focus on energy-efficient models. Texas building codes currently require a minimum of 14 SEER (soon to be updated to SEER2 standards), but we recommend aiming higher: 16–20 SEER for cooling, and 95%+ AFUE for gas furnaces. Higher SEER2 (the new label) or SEER ratings yield better performance per energy input.

For AC and heat pump upgrades, look for ENERGY STAR® certified units. Also consider emerging technologies: for example, two-stage or variable-speed compressors can adjust cooling output for higher efficiency and better humidity control. As an installer, we encourage homeowners to ask about advanced refrigerants (R-410A or newer low-GWP types) and compatibility with smart thermostats and home automation.

Mini-splits and geothermal: If your home lacks ducts, mini-split heat pumps (one outdoor unit serving multiple indoor heads) are excellent. Geothermal heat pumps (ground-source) offer the highest efficiency, but they’re expensive and rare in Texas. They do use stable underground temperatures to heat/cool. If you are building new or renovating large, a ground loop system can cut bills long-term — but it’s usually beyond the scope of most retrofits.

New Home Retrofits: If you’re renovating or building new, adopt “whole-house” strategies. For example, spray-foam or rigid insulation around the entire building envelope can replace ducts and save even more. Passive solar design (shading and orientation) and reflective roofing materials reduce cooling need. Also, installing ceiling fans in every room allows raising the thermostat by ~4°F while maintaining comfort. (Moving air feels cooler on skin.) Fans plus a properly set thermostat often saves more energy than cranking AC colder.

Remember: efficiency isn’t just high-tech equipment. Changing your thermostat setpoint by even 2–3 degrees can cut heating/cooling bills by ~5–10%. In extreme heat, raising the cooling setpoint a bit and wearing lighter clothing is a practical money-saver. Pair that with a smart thermostat schedule, and you get maximum bang for the buck.

Regional Strategies Across Texas

Texas is vast and climatically diverse, so where you live affects your heating and cooling needs. Here are a few region-specific notes for homeowners:

• North Texas (Dallas–Fort Worth)

  Dallas and Fort Worth have hot, humid summers and cool winters. Air conditioners have to run long to keep up with humidity. Insulation and tight sealing are crucial here to control that indoor moisture. Because DFW’s winters can dip into the 20s, keep an efficient furnace or heat pump for heating. In new homes, consider adding attic insulation above the code’s R-38 — it pays off in summer. Duct sealing is especially important in this area’s older tract homes, which often have leaky return plenums.

• Gulf Coast (Houston, Beaumont, Corpus Christi)

  Houston’s heat is compounded by extreme humidity. In addition to insulation, make sure air handler pans and drains are clean (humid air causes mold, which can clog systems). Installing a mini-split in a bedroom can allow sleeping comfortably with the central AC turned up. Smart thermostats should be set to avoid short-cycling during high humidity. Attic space is often hot and humid here, so good venting (and a dehumidifying AC) is key. Note: Houston’s ground can remain surprisingly cool; some homeowners use geothermal (well-circulated) systems for AC, but this is niche.

• West Texas (El Paso, Midland, Odessa)

  West Texas is the driest and has the highest summer highs. Daytime summer heat (110°F+) is followed by cooler nights. Take advantage of night ventilation when possible: if security allows, open windows at night and use whole-house fans or attic fans to flush out heat. The lack of humidity makes evaporative cooling (swamp coolers) sometimes effective in this region — though they’re rare. Attic insulation and reflective roofing (light-colored shingles) are especially helpful in West Texas. Winter nights can still freeze, so a backup furnace is wise.

• Hill Country (Austin, San Antonio, Central Texas)

  Central Texas sits between the Gulf and the desert. Summers are very hot (often 100–105°F) with high humidity, and winters are mild to cool. This region also has lots of hills and trees, which can provide shade but also trap heat in valleys. Homeowners here benefit from extra attic insulation and even cool roofs (white or reflective materials). Energy ordinances in cities like Austin encourage solar shading: planting shade trees on the west side of a house can cut cooling needs. Also, watch for severe weather (lightning, storms) that can affect equipment longevity; surge protectors on HVAC are a good idea.

• Panhandle (Amarillo, Lubbock)

  The Panhandle has the largest swings: extremely hot summers and very cold winters (amazing Texas P&L weather). Insulation is a must in ceilings and walls to keep summer heat out and winter cold in. A two-stage furnace or heat pump is ideal here – it can run gently in cool weather but has the power to heat when it hits 0°F or below. Sealing windows and using thermal curtains in winter will also pay off big time. The Tribune notes Amarillo saw 100 record-hot days recently, so AC use is up; at the same time, a string of subfreezing nights demands strong heating.

Each region has quirks, but the message is consistent: strengthen your home’s envelope and use efficient heating/cooling equipment appropriate to your area. In humid places, focus on moisture control and powerful AC; in dry places, use night cooling and shade; everywhere, prioritize sealing and insulation.

Texas Incentives and Policies to Help You Adapt

Making these home upgrades is easier when you leverage incentives. Texas and the federal government offer several programs:

• Federal Tax Credits: The Inflation Reduction Act provides tax credits for home energy improvements. Homeowners can claim up to 30% of costs for heat pumps (up to $2,000/year), efficient furnaces ($600), insulation ($600 total), windows ($600), and more. This means a new high-efficiency heat pump could earn a $2,000 credit, and a major insulation job another $600. Notably, ENERGY STAR advises bundling insulation and heat pump installations: you could claim $1,200 for insulation plus $2,000 for a heat pump in the same year. Over a few years, you can sequence home improvements to maximize credits.

• Upcoming Federal Rebates (HOMES & Electrification): Beyond tax credits, Texas is expected to receive up to $690 million from the federal government for direct rebates. The State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) will apply for this funding under the DOE’s HOME Energy Rebates and Home Electrification programs. These rebates will give point-of-sale discounts on insulation, HVAC upgrades, and electric appliances. For example, low-income homeowners could have 80% of retrofit costs covered (up to $8,000 for deep retrofits). Electrification rebates will cover 100% of the cost of heat pump installations for the poorest households (up to $8,000) and partial costs for others. A handy table from Environment Texas shows an electric heat pump rebate up to $8,000 and insulation up to $1,600. (These funds should flow starting in 2025 – keep an eye on SECO updates.)

• State and Utility Programs: Some Texas utilities have local rebates. For example, Oncor’s “Take A Load Off Texas” program (North Texas) offers service providers incentives for attic insulation, central heat pumps and AC, and other home efficiency projects. San Antonio’s CPS Energy has a well-funded “Save for Tomorrow Energy Plan” (STEP) with rebates for Wi-Fi thermostats, heat pumps, attic insulation, and no-cost weatherization assessments. Austin Energy offers rebates on smart thermostats and new equipment. Even smaller utilities run programs: check with your electric provider for weatherization loans or rebates.

• State Energy Codes: Texas updated its building energy code gradually — a statewide code only arrived in 2001. New homes must now meet higher standards (roof, wall, duct insulation). If you’re building or remodeling, insist on exceeding code. Some localities, like Austin and San Antonio, encourage solar-ready designs and tree-planting to mitigate heat.

• Low-Income Weatherization: Texas also funds free weatherization (insulation, caulking, minor HVAC repair) for qualifying low-income homes through the Weatherization Assistance Program. If you or neighbors qualify, this can be a no-cost way to prepare for heat.

These financial supports make it much less painful to invest in efficiency. For example, a homeowner might save $2,000 off a new heat pump via tax credit, another $8,000 via rebate, and get $600 back for insulation — covering most of the cost. Combining these programs can turn an expensive upgrade into a savvy investment.

Taking Action: Steps for Homeowners

Given all this, where should a homeowner start? Here’s a practical checklist:

1. Audit Your Home: Conduct an energy audit. You can hire a professional auditor or use free utility programs and DIY guides. An audit will pinpoint where you lose energy (heat gain, air leaks, inefficient equipment). For example, Texas Tribune notes many older homes are “leaky and under-insulated”; an audit often confirms this.

2. Seal and Insulate: Based on the audit, focus on attic and wall insulation, plus sealing leaks. This usually has the best payback. Seal air gaps and caulk/he weatherstrip around windows and doors.

3. Tune or Upgrade HVAC: Have your furnace/AC serviced now. Replace dirty filters, clean ducts if needed, and ensure correct refrigerant levels. If your system is over 10–15 years old, start planning a replacement. When upgrading, choose ENERGY STAR equipment and consider an electric heat pump (perhaps with gas backup).

4. Install Smart Controls: Install a programmable or smart thermostat. Sign up for any utility programs (Peak Reward or similar) that send you free thermostats or bill credits for reducing load on hot days.

5. Ventilate Wisely: Check attic and ventilation. Make sure soffit and ridge vents aren’t blocked. Consider adding an attic fan on a thermostat (set ~120°F). Use ceiling fans and whole-house fans to flush out heat at night.

6. Apply for Incentives: Research and apply for rebates and tax credits. Keep records and before/after photos if required. Consult the Texas Comptroller’s guidance or a tax advisor for the Inflation Reduction Act credits.

7. Plan for the Future: Don’t try to do everything at once unless funds allow. Develop a multi-year upgrade plan (as Energy Star suggests). For instance, you might do insulation this year (to claim the $600 credit), and a new heat pump next year (to claim $2,000 credit), or vice versa depending on budget. If cash flow is an issue, look into low-interest financing or even on-bill loan programs some utilities offer.

In summary: The climate data are clear: Texas is heating up. As a professional in home comfort, we can help you adapt. By tightening up your home, upgrading to efficient heating/cooling systems, and leveraging available rebates, you can stay safe and save money despite rising temperatures. It’s not about giving up on cool air — it’s about using it smarter. Adapting now will mean lower bills, a more resilient home, and a happier family, even as summers get more intense.