Category: Heating

Central Vs. Forced Air Systems

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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.

Understanding HVAC System Costs in Nashville

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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. 

Common Questions To Ask Before Hiring An HVAC Technician

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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

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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

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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.

Top 6 Ways To Make Sure Your HVAC Unit Is Winter-Ready: A Homeowner’s Guide

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When weather cools down, the last thing you want is to discover there’s an issue with your HVAC unit. Luckily, there are ways to catch problems early – and that starts by taking preventative measures. Here are the top 6 ways to make sure your HVAC unit is winter-ready.

1. Change The Filters

It’s recommended you change your air filters every 1-3 months. Dirty air filters can put a lot of added stress on your HVAC system because it has to work harder to pull air through the clogs. Not only that, but it can significantly impact your indoor air quality. Before winter arrives, remember to change your air filters and get into that habit of changing them often.

2. Cover Your Outdoor Unit

Cover your outdoor AC unit and winterize it in order to protect against ice, snow, and other debris that could accumulate this winter. Before you cover your outdoor unit, though, make sure you are cutting off the power supply to prevent accidental automated starts during those warmer winter days. Many people worry that covering the outdoor unit cause more moisture to build-up, and a host of other problems. However, if you get a waterproof cover, you shouldn’t run into this issue.

3. Turn On Your Furnace BEFORE Winter Arrives

Take your furnace for a little test drive! Plan to turn on your furnace a couple times and let it run for a while to make sure it doesn’t have any problems – but do this BEFORE winter arrive. This way, you can catch any potential issues before you need your furnace the most. If you notice any warning signs, such as strange noises, foul odors, no heat, weak airflow, or something else that doesn’t seem right, have an HVAC technician come take a look. It’s not uncommon for furnaces to give off a “burning” smell at first since its been lying dormant for a while. But if you’re concerned, and the smell doesn’t go away, contact a professional.

4. Invest In A Smart Thermostat

Do you want to save energy while staying comfortable this winter? Better add a smart thermostat to your Wishlist! Purchasing a smart thermostat is a SMART decision – especially if you buy one with Wi-Fi connectivity and a phone app. This will allow you to track and control your energy consumption and temperature at all times, whether you’re home or away. Wouldn’t it be cool if you could turn down the heat while you’re at work, but have it turn on right before you get home so you’re not walking into an ice box?

5. Clean The Heat Exchanger

Did you know the number one cause of carbon monoxide leaks is a failed, or a leaking, heat exchanger? Make sure you are cleaning your heat exchanger, and that it’s working properly. It’s not a bad idea to have a professional inspect it for you, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally missing any cracks or leaks. You cannot risk having carbon monoxide leak inside your home. Another preventative measure to take here would be to make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working.

6. Schedule HVAC Maintenance

Scheduling HVAC maintenance with a professional is one of the best ways to make sure your unit is working safely and efficiently. Let’s be real – the last thing any of us want to deal with is a broken furnace in the middle of a cold spell. With maintenance, you can catch problems early enough to avoid malfunctions and breakdowns. It can also help prolong the life of your system and save on energy costs.

Contact Temp Control Today For All Your HVAC Unit 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 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.

Why Is My Furnace Making Spooky Noises?

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If you hear spooky sounds coming from your furnace, it’s likely not a monster, a goblin, or a ghost. However, they still shouldn’t be ignored no matter how small or big the noises appear to be. Otherwise, you could find yourself in your very own horror story. Here are some reasons your furnace might be making spooky noises.

1. Banging

If you hear a banging sound when your furnace first turns on, this could mean you have dirty burners that have lead to a delay in ignition. This is because dirt has prevented the burners from igniting the gas quickly. A lot of times, this just means you need to have your furnace repaired by a professional to fix the issue.

2. Squealing

Does the noise you’re hearing sound like squealing? This is likely an indication that there’s a problem with the blower motor that needs inspected. It could mean you have a bad belt or issues with the motor bearing. You will want to replace belts before they break, or your blower won’t turn on and you could find yourself without heat. What a nightmare to have to deal with this time of year!

3. Screaming

A screaming furnace? That’s about as terrifying as it sounds. This could mean you have a coolant leak, which is a pretty serious issue that you shouldn’t ignore for too long. Make sure you shut off your unit and contact an HVAC professional right away if your furnace is screaming at you.

4. Rattling

Rattling noises could indicate a small issue or a big issue – so it’s best to have it looked at by a professional regardless. Sometimes, rocks, sticks, and other debris fall inside our HVAC units and cause a rattling sound as they get banged around. Another thing that could cause rattling is loose screws and hardware. Luckily, those are pretty easy fixes. However, a rattling sound could also mean you have a cracked heat exchanger – which is a pretty serious issue. A cracked heat exchanger could lead to a dangerous carbon monoxide leak if not addressed right away.

5. Clicking

Last but not least, if you hear a clicking sound, it usually means there’s a problem with the ignition or gas valve. For one, a broken or clogged gas valve could prevent gas from being let out, causing the ignitor to click endlessly. Secondly, the ignitor flame could run too cold to burn the oil or gas like it should, causing it to click for several minutes. Whether you have a gas leak or a faulty furnace, you should have your furnace checked by a professional right away.

Contact Temp Control Today For All Your Furnace 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 furnace 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.