How to Keep Your Home Cool and Comfortable During Lexington's Summer Heat

August 30, 2024

Summer in Lexington, SC, brings long days, plenty of sunshine, and, of course, the heat. As temperatures rise, keeping your home cool and comfortable becomes a top priority. At Brian's Heating & Cooling, we understand how challenging it can be to beat the heat while managing energy costs. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you stay cool and comfortable all summer long.


1. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings

One of the easiest ways to maintain a comfortable indoor environment is by optimizing your thermostat settings. During the day, set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature, typically around 78°F when you're home. If you're away, consider raising it by a few degrees to save energy. Investing in a programmable or smart thermostat can help automate these adjustments, ensuring your home stays cool without wasting energy.



2. Keep Your Blinds and Curtains Closed

Sunlight streaming through your windows can significantly increase the temperature inside your home. To combat this, keep your blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day. Consider using blackout curtains or reflective shades to block out even more heat. This simple step can reduce the strain on your air conditioning system and help keep your home cooler.


3. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely

Ceiling fans are an excellent way to enhance your home's cooling without relying solely on your AC. Set your fans to rotate counterclockwise during the summer to create a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler. This allows you to raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave the room to save energy.


4. Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks around doors, windows, and other openings can let hot air into your home and allow cool air to escape. Sealing these leaks with weatherstripping or caulk can improve your home's energy efficiency and keep it cooler. Don’t forget to check areas like your attic and basement, which can be major sources of air leakage.


5. Maintain Your Air Conditioning System

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your AC running efficiently during the summer months. Be sure to replace or clean your air filters every 1-3 months, as dirty filters can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. It’s also a good idea to schedule a professional tune-up with Brian's Heating & Cooling to ensure your system is in top shape. Our technicians will check for any issues, clean the coils, and make any necessary adjustments to keep your AC running smoothly.


6. Use Appliances Wisely

Appliances like ovens, stoves, and dryers generate a lot of heat, which can make your home feel warmer. To minimize their impact, try to use these appliances during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Additionally, consider using your microwave or grilling outside instead of using the oven on hot days.


7. Consider Upgrading Your Insulation

Proper insulation is crucial for keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. If your home is poorly insulated, it can be difficult to maintain a comfortable temperature. Upgrading your insulation, particularly in the attic and walls, can help keep the cool air in and the hot air out. This not only improves comfort but also reduces your energy bills.


8. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows

If your windows are old or single-pane, they may be allowing a lot of heat into your home. Upgrading to energy-efficient, double-pane windows can help reduce heat transfer and keep your home cooler. Look for windows with a low-emissivity (low-E) coating, which reflects heat and keeps your home more comfortable during the summer.


Stay Cool with Brian's Heating & Cooling

With these tips, you can enjoy a cool and comfortable home all summer long. If you need help with your air conditioning system or want to explore energy-efficient upgrades, Brian's Heating & Cooling is here for you. Our team of experts is dedicated to keeping Lexington, SC, homes comfortable, no matter how hot it gets outside. Contact us today at 803-796-1788 or visit our contact page to schedule a service or consultation.

5 Surprising Ways Your HVAC Impacts Indoor Air Quality in Lexington, SC

September 29, 2025
Many homeowners think of HVAC systems as just a way to heat or cool a home. But your HVAC system plays a huge role in indoor air quality, affecting your health, comfort, and even energy bills. At Brian’s Heating & Cooling, we want Lexington residents to understand how simple maintenance and upgrades can make a big difference indoors. Here are five surprising ways your HVAC system affects the air you breathe. 1. Filters Do More Than Trap Dust While everyone knows filters catch dust, they also help reduce pollen, mold spores, and pet dander. Choosing the right filter and replacing it regularly can dramatically improve indoor air quality. 2. Ductwork Can Harbor Allergens Leaks or buildup in ductwork can circulate dust, allergens, and even bacteria throughout your home. Regular inspections and cleaning keep your air cleaner and your system running efficiently. 3. Humidity Levels Affect Health Your HVAC system influences indoor humidity. Too much humidity can encourage mold growth, while too little can dry out skin and sinuses. Proper system settings and accessories like humidifiers or dehumidifiers can maintain a healthy balance. 4. Vent Placement Matters Furniture, curtains, or blocked vents can reduce airflow and cause stagnant areas where dust and allergens accumulate. A properly designed and maintained system ensures even airflow, which keeps air fresher throughout your home. 5. Smart HVAC Upgrades Make a Difference Upgrading to higher-efficiency filters, air purifiers, or even a smart thermostat can enhance your indoor air quality. Modern HVAC technology monitors air quality and adjusts airflow to optimize comfort and health. Check out some of the smart thermostats we carry and install today! Your HVAC system is more than just heating and cooling—it’s a key part of your home’s air quality. For residents in Lexington, SC, understanding these factors and taking proactive steps can create a healthier, more comfortable living space. If you want Brian’s Heating & Cooling to inspect your system or recommend air quality improvements, call us at 803‑796‑1788 or schedule a service online today.

Late-Summer HVAC Tune-Up: Why August Is the Perfect Time in Lexington, SC

August 27, 2025
As August winds down in Lexington, SC, and the oppressive summer heat finally begins to ease, it’s easy to breathe a sigh of relief. But for your HVAC system, now is a prime time—not to rest, but to get ahead. Late summer tune-ups can help reset your system, head off lingering stress from the hottest months, and prepare you for the seasonal transitions ahead. At Brian’s Heating & Cooling, we recommend taking advantage of this breather to optimize performance, prevent breakdowns, and safeguard your comfort and energy savings well into the fall. Why an August Tune-Up Makes Sense 1. Beat the Fall Rush Once the cool air hits in mid-September, homeowners begin scheduling maintenance en masse. Booking now means you’ll avoid long waits and get prompt service from our team when you need it most. 2. Repair Summer Wear & Tear From hefty runtime to clogged filters and stressed-out components, summer can wear your system down—even if it’s still running. A late-summer inspection helps us catch minor issues—like loose belts, dirty coils, or failing capacitors—before they lead to costly repairs in the fall. 3. Improve Transition Performance As we shift toward milder days, your system must alternate between cooling and occasional dehumidifying or fan-only modes. A pre-transition tune-up ensures smooth switching, preventing odd noises, short cycling, or inefficiencies. 4. Lock in Efficiency & Lower Bills Optimized systems run more efficiently. We’ll clean coils, check refrigerant, lubricate moving parts, and calibrate airflow—actions that cut strain and energy usage as you move into the next season. 5. Extend Lifespan & Protect Investment Routine care now pays off in system longevity. Taking care of wear and tear reduces stress on major components, helping your AC—and the rest of your HVAC—last longer and stay reliable into the cooler months. What a Late-Summer Tune-Up Includes Safety & Performance Inspection – Identify wear, electrical risks, or airflow issues before they worsen. Deep Cleaning (Coils, Filters, Drain Lines) – Restores airflow, reduces microbial buildup, and prevents system blockages. Refrigerant & System Pressure Check – Ensures optimal cooling power and prevents freezing or inefficiency. Calibration of Thermostat & Controls – Ensures seamless transitions between modes and accurate temperature control. Lubrication & Component Tightening – Keeps moving parts running smoothly and safely. Operational Test Run in Cooling & Fan Modes – Confirms proper functionality before seasonal changes hit. Ready for a Cooler, Smarter Fall? August may still feel sweltering—but it’s the perfect window to give your system the attention it deserves. Contact Brian’s Heating & Cooling today to schedule your late-summer HVAC tune-up in Lexington, SC. We'll make sure your system transitions into fall smoothly, efficiently, and reliably—so you’re never caught off guard when the seasons change. Check out our maintenance service page to learn more about how we can keep your heating and air conditioning equipment running effectively and efficiently all year long.

Top 5 HVAC Repairs We’re Seeing in Lexington This Summer

July 17, 2025
Summer is in full swing here in Lexington, SC, and that means your air conditioning system is working harder than ever. With the combination of high heat, humidity, and constant usage, HVAC issues are more common this time of year—and we’ve been busy helping homeowners across the area stay cool and comfortable. Here are the top 5 HVAC repairs we’re seeing this summer, and what you can do to avoid them. 1. Refrigerant Leaks Low refrigerant levels are one of the most common summer problems we see. Over time, small leaks can develop in the system, leading to reduced cooling, longer run times, and increased energy bills. Signs to watch for: Warm air blowing from vents AC running nonstop Hissing or bubbling sounds near the outdoor unit Our fix: We locate and seal the leak, recharge your system with the correct amount of refrigerant, and make sure everything is running at peak efficiency. 2. Clogged Condensate Drain Lines Lexington’s humidity causes your AC to remove a lot of moisture from the air. That water drains through a condensate line, which can become clogged with algae or debris, leading to water damage or system shutdowns. Symptoms include: Water pooling around your indoor unit Musty odors Sudden AC shutoff We can clear the blockage and get your system draining properly to prevent future issues. 3. Dirty Air Filters It may seem simple, but dirty or clogged filters are behind many of the service calls we handle in the summer. Poor airflow puts extra strain on your system, reduces cooling performance, and can even cause your evaporator coil to freeze. What to look for: Weak airflow Uneven cooling in rooms Higher energy bills Tip: Check and replace your air filter every 1–2 months—especially during the summer. 4. Electrical Component Failures Summer heat can stress key components like capacitors and contactors, causing them to overheat or fail. When this happens, your AC may not start or may shut off unexpectedly. Common signs: Clicking or buzzing noises AC won’t turn on Short cycling (frequent starting and stopping) We carry replacement parts on our trucks and can usually fix these issues quickly. 5. Frozen Evaporator Coils Yes, it sounds odd in the middle of summer—but frozen coils are more common than you think. Poor airflow or low refrigerant can cause the coil to freeze, stopping your system from cooling your home. Watch for: Ice buildup on the indoor unit Reduced airflow AC runs but doesn’t cool the home We’ll diagnose the cause, safely defrost your unit, and make any necessary repairs. Don’t Sweat It—Call Your Local HVAC Experts in Lexington At Brian’s Heating & Cooling, we’re proud to serve homeowners across Lexington and the Midlands with honest, fast, and dependable HVAC service. Whether you’re dealing with a small issue or a full system breakdown, we’re here to help. 📞 Call us today or schedule your service online to stay cool and comfortable all summer long!