How to Save on Heating Costs This Winter in Lexington

November 29, 2024

As winter approaches, the chill in the air means one thing: heating your home becomes a priority. However, heating costs can quickly add up, especially in colder months. At Brian's Heating & Cooling, we understand how important it is to keep your home warm without breaking the bank. Here are some practical tips to help you save on heating costs this winter in Lexington, SC.


1. Schedule Regular Heating Maintenance

A well-maintained heating system is more energy-efficient and operates more effectively. Before the temperatures drop, schedule a professional inspection with Brian's Heating & Cooling. Our experts will check your furnace or heat pump, clean it, and ensure it’s running at optimal efficiency. Regular maintenance not only helps prevent breakdowns but also reduces energy consumption, keeping your heating bills lower.


2. Seal Leaks Around Windows and Doors

Heat loss is often caused by drafts around windows and doors. By sealing these gaps, you can prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from entering your home. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal any visible cracks. Additionally, installing door sweeps or draft blockers can keep the cold air out, helping your heating system work less to keep your home comfortable.


3. Adjust Your Thermostat

Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees can make a significant difference in your heating costs. If you have a programmable thermostat, take advantage of it by setting temperatures to drop when you’re asleep or away from home. In the evening, consider bundling up with blankets and warm clothing rather than cranking up the heat.


4. Utilize Ceiling Fans

Did you know that ceiling fans can help distribute warm air more effectively? In the winter, set your ceiling fans to run clockwise at a low speed. This will push the warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into the living space, keeping your home warmer without increasing energy consumption.


5. Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable temperature and reducing your heating costs. Make sure your attic, walls, and floors are well insulated to keep heat from escaping. If your home is older or lacks adequate insulation, consider investing in upgrades to ensure that your home is energy-efficient this winter.


6. Use Space Heaters Wisely

While space heaters can be a great way to heat a single room without turning up the whole-house thermostat, they should be used carefully. Avoid using them in areas where they might not be needed, and turn them off when you leave the room. Additionally, only use energy-efficient space heaters to ensure that they don’t increase your energy bills.


7. Keep Vents Unobstructed

Ensure that your vents and registers are free of furniture, rugs, or curtains that could block the flow of warm air. When air circulation is unrestricted, your heating system works more efficiently, helping to keep your heating costs down.


8. Consider Upgrading Your Heating System

If your heating system is outdated or inefficient, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Modern furnaces and heat pumps are designed to be more energy-efficient, which can save you a lot of money in the long run. At Brian's Heating & Cooling, we offer expert advice on the best heating options for your home and budget, ensuring that you stay warm without overspending.


9. Take Advantage of Natural Heat

During the day, open your curtains and let the sun warm your home. Sunlight can naturally increase the temperature in your living spaces, allowing you to use your heating system less. Just be sure to close the curtains at night to prevent heat from escaping.


10. Check Your Air Filter

A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your heating system to work harder than necessary, leading to higher energy bills. Make it a habit to check and replace your air filter regularly, especially during the winter months when your heating system is in use more often.


With these simple tips, you can stay warm and comfortable this winter while keeping your heating costs manageable. If you have any questions or need assistance with heating maintenance, repairs, or upgrades, the team at Brian's Heating & Cooling is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you save on heating costs this winter in Lexington, SC!

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!