Author: Temp Control

Central Vs. Forced Air Systems

Nashville-area homes come with many different heating options. Whether you’re shopping for a home or want to see what options are available for upgrading your home’s heat, knowing your options can help you pick the right systems for your home, comfort, and wallet.

At Temp Control Heating & Air Conditioning, our teams of HVAC and heating experts are here to help install, repair, and maintain your heating system. Start by learning more about forced air heating, then weigh different factors when deciding if it’s right for you.

What Is Forced Air Heating?

Forced air heating pushes heat throughout your home. It relies on a furnace or boiler, which heats the air, and a distribution network of vents in your ceilings or floors to make sure that warmed air reaches every space in your home. This is the most common type of heating system throughout the United States, and most homes with forced air heating have furnaces.

Less common alternatives to forced air heating include mini-splits, radiant heating systems, and electric baseboard heaters. These systems are common in older homes, which may not have ductwork, and apartments or townhomes, so residents have individualized control over heat within their units.

What Is Central Air Conditioning?

Central air conditioning is the opposite side of the coin from forced air heating. It uses an outdoor unit and coolant-based system to generate cooled air that travels to each room in a home through ducts. Both forced air heating systems and central air conditioning systems typically use the same vents, ducts, and thermostats. HVAC, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning is the common name for a home climate control system that includes both elements.

How does central air conditioning factor into your research when you’re curious about what is forced air heating? It’s important to understand both systems because they aren’t alternatives; each system handles different aspects of keeping your home comfortable. And in Nashville, Tennessee, where average winter lows sit in the 20s, and summer highs are nearly 90°, many homeowners need both central air conditioning and forced-air heating in their homes.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Heating System

Installing a new heating system is a great investment in your home. It can make winters safer and more comfortable, and it can add value if you decide to sell your home in the future. Keep these factors in mind as you decide the right fit for your home:

Do You Have Ducts?

This is one of the biggest factors in choosing a new heating system. Forced air systems require ductwork. Older homes may not have ducts, and homes with extensions or changed layouts may have ducts that don’t adequately map to the entire space (which can put strain on your unit). Installing ductwork is an expensive project, but it can give you access to both forced air and central air options. Without ductwork and on a smaller budget, options like baseboard heaters and ductless units can be a comfortable and valuable alternative.

What’s Your Budget?

What is forced air heating going to cost to install? An HVAC technician can help calculate the costs of any forced air installation project, such as:

  • Upgrading to a new furnace
  • Completing repairs on existing ductwork and systems
  • Installing mini splits and heaters
  • Installing ductwork and a furnace

They can also quote you the costs of materials and labor for installing alternatives to forced air heating and central air conditioner units.

Do You Need Heat Throughout Your Whole Home?

You might prefer different temperatures in different rooms. For example, you might have a guest room that will stay empty most of the season, and you may have roommates or tenants who want their own temperature control. In these circumstances, mini splits and heaters give every occupant more versatility.

Contact Temp Control Heating & Air Today to Learn More

At Temp Control Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re here to help you heat your home so you stay comfortable all winter long. Reach out today to schedule an appointment to service your existing heating system or to learn more about different heating options for your home.

How To Get Your AC Unit Ready For Summer

As the temperature starts to rise and summer approaches, you owe it to yourself to ensure that your air conditioning system is ready to handle the heat and keep your home cool and comfortable. At Temp Control Heating Air Conditioning, we understand the importance of a functioning AC during the hot months. With great cooling comes great responsibility, however.

Keeping your air conditioning system in good shape takes a bit of work. We’re going over some valuable tips on how to get your AC ready for summer, as well as showcase our preventative maintenance services. Whether you are a homeowner or a commercial establishment in Nashville, TN, we have the expertise to cater to your HVAC needs. Let’s take a look at what you can do to ensure your home stays cool all summer.

Tips for Getting Your AC Ready for Summer

It’s crucial to make sure that your AC system is up to the task of maintaining a cool and comfortable environment during the summer. Here are some of the practical steps you can take to get your AC ready for the warm weather:

Checking and Replacing Air Filters

Air filters play a pivotal role in maintaining the efficiency of your HVAC system while ensuring good air quality in your home. A clogged filter can drastically reduce your unit’s productivity, lead to higher energy usage, and possibly damage your system. Ideally, air filters should be replaced every 1-3 months, especially if you have pets or live in a dust-prone area.

Cleaning the Outdoor Unit

Your outdoor unit can accumulate dust, debris, and leaves over time, which can hinder its performance. Ensure you clear the area around your outdoor unit, then gently clean the fins with a stream of water or with a commercial cleaning spray available at most home improvement stores. Remember to always turn off your unit before cleaning to avoid any electrical mishaps.

Testing the Thermostat

Check your thermostat’s accuracy by comparing its reading with an independent indoor thermometer. If there’s a considerable difference, recalibration may be necessary. Also, consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for added convenience and energy efficiency.

Inspecting and Cleaning Air Ducts

Over time, air ducts can collect dust and debris, which can hamper airflow and compromise the quality of air in your home. Regular inspection and cleaning of these ducts can significantly improve your AC’s efficiency and performance.

Importance of Preventive Maintenance

You might think that since your AC is working fine now, it doesn’t need any attention. However, you must remember that preventive maintenance might be the key to prolonging your AC’s life and efficiency.

Regular preventive maintenance can keep your AC unit running optimally and efficiently for many years. Without proper maintenance, an average unit typically lasts between 10-15 years, but with consistent check-ups and necessary repairs, you can expect it to serve you well for up to 20 years.

When your AC unit is poorly maintained, it struggles to maintain a desired temperature, leading to excessive energy consumption. Regular maintenance ensures your AC is in good shape, preventing it from overworking and helping you save up on your utility bills.

Regular maintenance not only prolongs the life of your AC but also ensures that it provides superior air quality and comfort. It helps keep the airflow smooth, preventing dust, allergens, and other pollutants from circulating in your home.

Choose Temp Control Heating Air Conditioning for Your HVAC Services

The technicians at Temp Control Heating Air Conditioning have what it takes to keep your AC system running great. We bring years of experience in AC maintenance and repair to the table. Our team of certified professionals is trained to handle a wide range of HVAC issues, ensuring that your system operates smoothly throughout the summer.

As a locally owned and operated business, we understand the specific cooling needs of the Nashville, TN, area and are well-equipped to provide quick and effective solutions to all your HVAC problems.

For a professional AC tune-up, visit our website and let us help you welcome the summer season with a well-prepared AC!

Best Temperature For AC When Leaving for Vacation

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Updated: November 28, 2023

Should You Turn Off Your AC When You Leave For Vacation?

Many homeowners would answer “yes” to this question. And, it makes sense why. After all, why would you want to cool a home that isn’t being occupied? While it may be best to turn off your AC if you’re planning on being away for weeks, you should consider leaving it on if you’re only going on vacation for a few days. And here’s why.

Why Should You Set Your AC On When On Vacation

1. High Humidity Levels

During the summer, humidity levels are much higher than other times of the year. Your air conditioner plays a key role in managing those levels. If you turn your AC off, you may not only come home to an unbearably uncomfortable home, but you could also be walking in to mold growth.

2.  Uncomfortable Home

As we briefly mentioned above, turning off your air conditioner could mean you’d walk in to an uncomfortable, sweltering hot home at the end of your vacation. While you may be thinking it’s a waste of energy to keep it running while you’re gone, it actually would be the opposite. Your air conditioner will have to work in overdrive to try and cool your home down, meaning there will be an added stress on your unit and higher energy bills as a result.

3. Stress On Your Appliances

While appliances like your freezer and refrigerator are designed to maintain cool environments, turning off the AC – especially if you live in a very hot climate – can cause stress and damage to these appliances. High temperatures can overwork these appliances, causing breakdowns, added stress, and more. Not to mention, if you have food in your pantry that you’re hoping to be able to eat when you come home, you may want to consider leaving that AC unit on. Otherwise, you could be coming home to a pantry full of spoiled food.

4. Damaged Electronics

Extremely high temperatures can cause circuits to melt, motors to damage, and screens to crack. Having to replace these items would cost much more than leaving your AC running when you’re not home!

So, what’s the solution? What Temperature to Set Your AC When You Are Away?

You don’t have to keep your AC at an extremely cool temperature. In fact, you can set it at a higher temperature while you’re away and it’ll still do its job to protect your appliances, electronics, and your home as a whole. We recommend setting it to 75-85 degrees. That will help keep high temperatures and humidity at a good level when you aren’t home. Another solution would be to install a programmable thermostat if you don’t already have one. This allows you to control your AC unit while you’re away.

Contact Temp Control Today For All Your Air Conditioning Needs In The Nashville, TN and Surrounding Areas!

As a family-owned and operated business, your comfort is our number one priority. Temp Control is your trusted source for all your air conditioning needs in the Nashville, TN and surrounding areas. To schedule routine maintenance, repair, replacement, or installation, contact us today at 615-837-4449 or online here.

Understanding HVAC System Costs in Nashville

Undertaking an HVAC project in Nashville is no small feat. It needs careful consideration of various costs to ensure both comfort and budgetary needs are met. From installation to maintenance, every aspect plays a role in determining the overall costs. If you’re a home or business owner looking for efficient heating and cooling solutions in Nashville, understanding factors that influence the cost of heating and cooling will empower you to make informed decisions. 

Temp Control strives to offer the best indoor comfort solutions in Nashville. Contact us today to schedule an HVAC consultation. 

How Does Living in Nashville Affect HVAC Units?

The climate of Nashville presents unique challenges for HVAC systems. As the largest city in Tennessee, Nashville experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. However, extreme fluctuations in temperature and moisture levels throughout the year can put stress on your HVAC unit. 

During summer, when temperatures regularly top 90 degrees with high humidity, staying cool is crucial, but increased use of the air conditioner takes its toll. Likewise, the transitions between seasons, when outdoor conditions swing rapidly from hot to cold, force the HVAC system to work extra hard to condition indoor air. 

Over time, this frequent cycling and greater workload decreases efficiency and reliability. Homeowners in Nashville need HVAC systems designed to withstand the demanding local climate in order to maintain comfortable temperatures year-round.

Understanding the Cost of Your HVAC System Costs 

When determining the cost of a new HVAC system, there are several factors you need to consider beyond the purchasing price. A clear understanding of these elements can help ensure you budget accurately for both installation and long-term ownership.

  • Installation Timing: Costs will be higher if installation occurs during peak seasons like summer compared to spring or fall when demand is lower.
  • System Efficiency: Newer, more efficient systems using technologies like variable speed motors cost more initially but lead to lower utility bills over time.
  • System Size and Capacity: Larger systems that provide greater heating and cooling capacity for the home have a higher price tag than smaller units for AC replacement.
  • Maintenance Plans: Signing up for an annual maintenance plan is a good idea as it can address small issues before they become expensive repairs.
  • System Life Expectancy: HVAC systems, on average, last 10-15 years, so one nearing that age will start requiring more repairs and may soon need replacement to avoid even higher repair costs.
  • Age of AC System: The older an air conditioner gets, usually anything 10 years and older, the more expensive it becomes to maintain each year as parts wear out. Air conditioning replacement may become inevitable.

Tips for Managing HVAC System Costs

Ensuring proper maintenance for your HVAC system is essential for maintaining lower costs in the long run. These helpful tips can help you save on your HVAC bills:

  • Schedule annual maintenance servicing: Getting your system serviced once a year by a licensed technician can prevent small issues from becoming expensive repairs and air conditioning replacements. This helps your system run efficiently.
  • Change or clean filters monthly: Dirty filters block airflow and cause your system to work harder. Clean or replace filters monthly to reduce stress on your unit.
  • Set your thermostat for maximum energy savings: Turning back the thermostat a few degrees when away can cut heating/cooling costs significantly. Programmable thermostats make this easy to automate.
  • Seal air leaks around your home: Sealing openings where air can escape improves efficiency and reduces the load on your HVAC system. Caulk and weather strip as needed.

Choose Temp Control for Quality HVAC Solutions in Nashville

Navigating the unique demands of Nashville’s climate on HVAC systems requires expertise and precision. Proper maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your unit but also keeps operational costs in check. At Temp Control, we are committed to delivering top-notch HVAC solutions tailored to Nashville’s specific needs. Our experienced technicians and cutting-edge technology ensure that your system performs optimally year-round. Contact us today for a consultation. 

Repairing vs. Replacing Your AC Unit

Repairing vs. Replacing Your AC Unit

As the summer sun beats down, countless homeowners eagerly turn on their air conditioning, only to find themselves faced with issues stemming from their aging units. And with recurrent repairs, it’s only natural to wonder if you should spend more money repairing your old AC or simply replace it. 

While repairing often seems more affordable, is it prolonging the inevitable or fully solving problems? Conversely, replacing your AC is a major expenditure. However, it’s more efficient and saves money in the long run. Read on to learn which option may suit you best and optimize your comfort and expenditures. 

Temp Control is the leading expert in heating in Nashville, TN, and the surrounding areas. We’re your first line of defense against heating and air conditioning complications. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or make inquiries.  

How Long Do AC Units Last?

The average lifespan of an AC unit can vary depending on the brand, model, and how it is maintained and used. In general, a central air conditioning system should function reliably for about 10-15 years with regular care and servicing. Window units may last 8-10 years on average before needing air conditioning replacement. 

However, the use, maintenance, installation, and the climate where the system is installed can impact longevity significantly. Taking steps like changing filters monthly, cleaning condenser coils annually, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of debris helps extend the life of an AC. 

Promptly addressing any issues that arise also prevents further damage down the line. By investing in quality brands and proper maintenance, many homes get 15+ years out of a central AC system or 10+ years from a window unit.

Signs Your Air Conditioning Isn’t Working Properly

A well-functioning air conditioning system is crucial for your comfort and well-being. It’s important to recognize telltale signs showing your AC might be struggling to work properly. Here are a few signs you should look out for:

  • Higher energy bills: If your air conditioning system struggles to keep your home cool, your unit works harder and uses more energy to meet your heating and cooling needs. Monitor your bills for unexpected spikes that indicate an inefficient or faulty system.
  • Uneven temperatures: Different parts of your home may feel warmer or cooler than others if airflow is obstructed or unevenly distributed. Use a thermometer to check temperatures room-to-room.
  • Strange noises: Squeaking, grinding, or other unusual sounds could mean something is impacting performance, like low refrigerant levels or a break in the system.
  • Slow cooling: On hot days, it should take your home about 30 minutes or less to reach the set temperature when you turn on the AC. If it takes longer, efficiency may be declining.
  • Decreased air flow: Check vents and filters for buildup that can reduce circulation. Clogged or blocked components restrict airflow throughout the ductwork.

Should You Repair or Replace Your AC Unit?

In the face of wear and tear, the looming decision between air conditioner replacement and repair can be agonizing. This pivotal choice ultimately determines your comfort and long-term budget, making it very important to make the right decision. 

Here are some factors you need to consider:

  • Age of the unit: AC units generally last 10-15 years, so one older than that may be more costly to repair in the long run.
  • Frequency of repairs: If repairs are becoming more frequent or major components repeatedly need replacement, it’s likely time for an upgrade.
  • Cost of air conditioning repairs vs. replacement: Getting multiple quotes can shed light on how repair costs compare to replacement costs. Replacing may be more cost-effective in the long run.
  • Efficiency: Newer units tend to be more energy efficient and less costly to operate over their lifespan. An old unit may consume significantly more electricity each year.
  • Warranties: A new unit comes with a factory warranty, while repairs usually have a limited warranty. Consider future protection from breakdowns and the possibility of air conditioning replacement.

Trust the Experts at Temp Control Heating & Air Conditioning for Reliable AC Services

Ultimately, the choice between air conditioner repair and replacement depends on giving the factors we have just discussed careful consideration. If you’re still unsure, Temp Control’s seasoned technicians can help you determine whether repairing or replacing your AC is the best solution for your home. We are committed to prioritizing your comfort and satisfaction. Contact us today for all your heating and cooling needs. 

Signs you Need a New Air Conditioner in Nashville

Signs you Need a New Air Conditioner in Nashville

The Tennessee summers can be tough on everyone, but at least with air conditioning, you’ll catch a break. But if that air conditioning unit ever breaks, do you know if you’d need to replace it? In Nashville, we put our ACs through a serious workout, combatting hot temperatures throughout the year. With regular maintenance, 15-20 years is the average lifespan of most air conditioning units, and you will start noticing growing problems a few months or even years before it’s time to schedule your air conditioning replacement.

How do you know when you need a new air conditioner? In the Nashville heat and humidity, it’s important to notice the signs early before your AC goes out in the middle of a hot day when you need it most.

A/C Unit is Well Past Its Expiration Date

Many of the neighborhoods in Nashville have homes that were built (and last updated) more than 20 years ago. Many of these homes have their original AC units still attached, potentially past their prime. “Expired” air conditioners tend to use a lot more electricity than they need to because they are pushing power through aging wires into old and possibly half-broken components. You may be losing both cooling and electric efficiency, facing an increasing pace of repairs, strange noises, musty smells, and/or unreliable behavior.

Most air conditioning systems have a sticker indicating a date. If yours has a date from more than five years ago, it’s time to start planning for your air conditioning replacement.

Energy Bill Has Increased

As an AC ages, it uses more electricity. As it starts to fail, that power bill can jump up unexpectedly, especially as summer heats up. The longer an air conditioner runs, the more electricity it typically takes to keep running.

If your energy bill has increased noticeably from one summer to the next, there’s a good chance that your aging AC is the culprit. Most energy companies will help you track your power usage yearly using same-month power comparisons.

Calling the Technician Regularly

After about 5 years, it’s not unusual to need the occasional AC repair. However, your need for AC repairs will increase as all the essential parts age. When you’re regularly calling the HVAC technician to get your air blowing, cooling, or even just turning on, it means that a complete system failure is not too far in the future. Rather than paying more and more for repairs – eventually for a repair that will cost more than 1/2 the expense of a new unit, schedule your upgrade while the old AC is still on its last legs.

Bad Airflow or Poor Conditioning

Even if you’re not constantly calling for repair, if your AC just can’t keep the home comfortable anymore, that’s a bad sign. If inspections, cleanings, tune-ups, and repairs still leave your home with poor airflow and not-cold-enough air, your family’s comfort and even summertime safety could rely on replacing that old air conditioner before it stops cooling entirely in the middle of a sweltering summer.

Beat the Heat in Nashville with a New Air Conditioner from Temp Control

Your family deserves an efficient air conditioner’s safety, comfort, and affordable energy bills. While it’s normal to let your old AC chug along until it fails, knowing the signs can help you plan ahead and schedule an air conditioning replacement before leaving you in an AC emergency.

Temp Control is dedicated to ensuring every Nashville family is living comfortably, and we are ready to help you with the air conditioning installation that your home needs. Contact us today for a consultation. We’ll gladly inspect your current AC, help you choose a new, energy-efficient unit that fits your house perfectly, and take care of the replacement process.

Contact us today for AC replacement in Nashville.

6 Ways To Improve Your Home Air Quality This Spring

6 Ways To Improve Your Indoor Air Quality This Spring

Spring is in the air – but so are some nasty allergens and pollutants! This time of year is perfect for spring cleaning and improving your indoor air quality at the same time. Here are the top 6 ways to improve your indoor air quality this spring.

1. Mop Up What Your Vacuum Leaves Behind

Your vacuum will pick up most of the dirt, dander and dust that coats your floor. However, it can sometimes leave some behind. After you’re done vacuuming, take a microfiber mop and some dust cloths and clean up the dirt and dust that your vacuum missed.

2. Keep Outside Pollutants Outside

It’s easy to track outside pollutants inside. Pollen can cling to your clothing and hair, and pesticides and dirt can stick to the bottom of your shoes. The best way to go about making sure outside pollutants stay where they belong is to remove shoes at the door before walking inside. You can place a floor mat at the door entrance and ask that all family members and guests remove their shoes at the door.

3. Make Sure Your Home Is Well-Ventilated

Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate. An air tight home might keep your cooling costs down this time of year, but it also keep allergens trapped inside. Consider cracking open some windows or invest in an air cleaning system that will help remove these allergens from your air.

4. Always Use Exhaust Fans

Exhaust fans work to remove any moisture, unwanted odors, and other pollutants from the air you breathe. When cooking or bathing, there can be a lot of steam and moisture. Make sure you’re turning on fans to allow all that steam and moisture a way out.

5. Keep Your Home Clean

We talked briefly about mopping, but there’s a lot more that goes into cleaning in order to improve your indoor air quality significantly. After all, it is “spring cleaning” season. Make sure to clean your carpets and rugs, dust off vents, change your air filter every 1-3 months, and schedule HVAC maintenance at least once a year. Doing all of these cleaning tasks can greatly improve your indoor air quality this spring.

6. Invest In Indoor Air Quality Solutions

Last but not least, invest in your indoor air quality! Here at Temp Control, we offer a variety of indoor air quality solutions, including:

  • Whole-Home Filtration System
  • Whole-Home Humidifiers
  • UV Germicidal Systems

Each indoor air quality service offers a unique set of benefits. For healthier air and a better living environment, consider installing an indoor air quality solution in your home.

Contact Temp Control Today For All Your Indoor Air Quality Needs In The Nashville, TN and Surrounding Areas!

As a family-owned and operated business, your comfort is our number one priority. Temp Control is your trusted source for all your indoor air quality needs in the Nashville, TN and surrounding areas. To schedule an appointment, contact us today at 615-837-4449 or online here.

Common Questions To Ask Before Hiring An HVAC Technician

Common Questions To Ask Before Hiring An HVAC Technician

Are you in need of a heating and cooling repair, maintenance, replacement, or installation? If so, then you’re probably beginning to do some research on companies in your local area. Before you hire an HVAC technician, it’s a good idea to make sure you are asking the right questions. You want someone who is reputable, knowledgeable and experienced working on such important equipment like your HVAC unit. Here are some common questions you should be asking before hiring an HVAC technician.

1. How Much Experience Do You Have?

It’s perfectly acceptable to ask an HVAC technician how long they’ve been in this industry, so you can get a feel for how experienced they are. You will most likely feel a lot better if the HVAC technician you’re hiring has decades of experience and isn’t just starting out.

2. How Long Have You Been In Business?

Not only is it important to ask how much experience a specific person has, but it’s also important to know how long the company they’ve worked for has been in business. If a company has been in business for a long time, it proves stability and success. If people didn’t use their services, they wouldn’t be in business for as long as they have. This question is a good way to gauge how reputable they are in your community.

3. Are You Licensed and Insured?

This should be one of the first questions you ask. It’s never a good idea to hire an unlicensed and uninsured contractor. When an HVAC technician has a current license, it proves that they have received the proper training and have the knowledge in this field. When an HVAC technician has proof of insurance, you can rest assured that in the event of an accident, you’ll be covered. In this industry, accidents can happen – no matter how much experience your technician has. Let’s say the technician falls off a ladder and breaks their arm, or drops a heavy piece of equipment on their foot. The insurance will cover the losses so the homeowner is held responsible for these injuries.

4. Do You Have References or Reviews?

You can ask to see references, or head online to look at reviews. These are great ways to hear from actual customers on their experience with the company you’re thinking of hiring. Was it positive? What went wrong? Do they have a good overall rating? This can help make your decision a lot easier if you know what their online reputation looks like.

5. Can You Provide A Written Quote?

Having quotes in writing is always a good idea. This way, you and the company will both have notes on your meeting and what was discussed. Miscommunication and misunderstanding can happen if things aren’t written down.

6. What Is Your Pricing?

Don’t be afraid to ask about pricing. After all, everyone has different budgets and needs. It’s important to remember, though, that cheap isn’t always best. You get what you pay for. Quality service with quality products might cost more upfront, but is often worth it in the end. That being said, when compiling quotes from different companies, don’t make your decision solely based off pricing.

Looking To Hire An HVAC Technician You Can Trust?

Contact Temp Control for HVAC Service in Nashville, TN

As a family-owned and operated business, your comfort is our number one priority. Temp Control is your trusted source for all your HVAC repair, maintenance, replacement and installation needs in the Nashville, TN and surrounding areas. To schedule an appointment, contact us today at 615-837-4449 or online here.

Top 4 Ways To Love Your HVAC System On Valentine’s Day

Top 4 Ways To Love Your HVAC Unit On Valentine’s Day

Your HVAC unit is truly the heart of your home. But without a little TLC every now and then, it could prove to be more of a heartache for you and your family. Here are the top 4 ways to love your heating and cooling unit on Valentine’s Day.

1. Seal Your Windows

Are you trying to enjoy a relaxing, cozy evening but get interrupted by cold drafts? Did you think you were opening the mail to find a love letter, but instead found your high energy bill? Both cold drafts and high energy bills could be a result of air leaks. Make sure your windows are sealed properly during the winter. Caulking and weather-stripping are two ways you can seal any air leaks that are around your windows. Otherwise, you’re letting out all that warm air and your HVAC unit will have to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures.

2. Use A Smart Thermostat

We know you want the mood to be just right this Valentine’s Day. This starts with making sure the indoor temperature is as comfortable as possible. By using a smart thermostat, you have more flexibility and control over your comfort. When you leave your home, you can change the temperature right from an app on your phone to save on energy. You can also set it to automatically change to a more comfortable temperature right before you arrive back at home so you are never walking into a cold home in the winter – or an unbearably hot one in the summer.

3. Change Your Air Filter

Love is in the air… and that’s the only thing that should be! Before you plan for a romantic evening at home, consider changing your air filter. Your filter should be changed every 1-3 months. When it gets clogged with air pollutants, your HVAC unit has to work harder to try pushing air through. Not only does it cause a strain on your system, but it can also contribute to poor indoor air quality. If the air can’t circulate as well, pollutants can settle in areas around your home when usually your HVAC system would filter them out. And let’s face it – there’s nothing romantic about breathing in dust and mold.

4. Schedule Maintenance

One of the best things you can do for your HVAC unit is to pamper it. Maintenance for your HVAC unit is like a spa day for us – and who doesn’t like the gift of self-care? Take care of your HVAC unit by scheduling maintenance bi-annually (once for your AC unit and once for your furnace). Regular maintenance helps ensure your system is working efficiently and safely, while also prolonging its life and saving you money on energy bills.

Contact Temp Control Today Heating and Cooling in Nashville and Surrounding Areas

As a family-owned and operated business, your comfort is our number one priority. Temp Control is your trusted source for all your HVAC unit repair, maintenance, replacement and installation needs in the Nashville, TN and surrounding areas. To schedule an appointment, contact us today at 615-837-4449 or online here.

8 Signs Your Heating System Needs To Be Repaired

While heating systems are designed to last between 10-20 years if well-maintained, there comes a time when every piece of equipment needs some type of repair work. With how much use it gets in the winter, its inevitable, really! Here are 8 signs your heating system needs to be repaired.

1. Strange Sounds

Are you finding that your heating system is making strange, unfamiliar sounds? If your unit is rattling, squealing, or popping, then it’s time to have it checked out by a professional. All of these sounds can have different meanings, and the issue can range from being minor to pretty serious.

2. Inaccurate Thermostat

If you notice your thermostat appears inaccurate, don’t assume there’s anything wrong with the thermostat itself! Sometimes, this could be due to a mechanical issue with your HVAC unit. Poor air circulation, dirty sensors, and frozen coils are just a few of the reasons your system might not be running properly.

3. High Energy Bills

Many things can contribute to high energy bills. Whether it be a dirty filter, low refrigerant levels, or a sign that you need maintenance, seeing that higher-than-usual bill come through is never fun. Make sure you’re keeping your unit cleaned and well-maintained. If that doesn’t seem to solve the issue, then have a professional come take a look and see if your unit needs repaired.

4. Poor Air Quality

Sometimes, poor air quality is a relatively easy fix. Sometimes, all it takes is changing your dirty air filter! However, it can sometimes indicate a larger issue – like dangerous emissions circulating your air. Gas and oil furnaces run the risk of contaminating your home with carbon monoxide if something is wrong with the equipment. This can be extremely harmful and even deadly, so you want to make sure you are calling an HVAC technician right away if you notice poor air quality in your home suddenly.

5. Slow Startup Time

Your heating unit should not take a long time to heat up your space. If it seems to be taking forever, though, or the temperature just doesn’t feel right, it probably means your HVAC unit is malfunctioning and needs professional repair. An HVAC technician will be able to find the cause of the problem and offer repair solutions.

6. Yellow Pilot Light

Is your pilot light burning yellow? This is not something you’ll want to ignore. Usually, it means there’s a lack of oxygen, the intake valve is clogged with dirt, or it’s experiencing incomplete combustion. If your pilot light is anything but the color blue, it’s time to call a professional.

7. Constant Cold Spots

Do you still feel cold, even though your thermostat is cranked up? A few things could be going on here. For starters, you might have a dirty air filter that’s clogged and needs to be replaced. Your thermostat may also be installed in a location that isn’t ideal. Yes, location of your thermostat does matter! Another cause could be due to air leaks in your ducts. No matter why you’re experiencing cold spots, though, it’s something you’ll want to have inspected by a professional HVAC technician.

8. Age (10-20 Years)

When your heating system gets older, it naturally loses some of its efficiency. It’s just like humans! The older we get, the more we start to slow down. If your unit is older than 15 years and experiencing problems, it’s usually a better investment to just get a brand new heater. However, if your unit is still around the 10-year-old mark, you may still be able to get a few years out of it. Contact a professional to determine whether a repair or replacement is necessary.

Contact Temp Control Today For All Your Heating System Needs In The Nashville, TN and Surrounding Areas!

As a family-owned and operated business, your comfort is our number one priority. Temp Control is your trusted source for all your heating repair, maintenance, replacement and installation needs in the Nashville, TN and surrounding areas. To schedule an appointment, contact us today at 615-837-4449 or online here.