How You Can Lower Your Energy Bills This Winter
info • December 8, 2020
With winter approaching, so are the cooler temperatures and the freezing cold nights. Even though we are all grateful for a break from the Lexington, SC heat and humidity, the colder seasons also present different challenges for homeowners including increased energy bills. With that being said, the team here at Brian’s Heating & Cooling wants to share some simple tips to help homeowners lower their energy bills while keeping their Lexington, SC home warm and comfortable.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
If you still have a manual thermostat, now is the time to upgrade to a smart or programmable thermostat! Programmable thermostats will let you customize your heating schedule in order to save you money while a smart thermostat gives you even more energy-saving options. Smart thermostats even allow you to control your HVAC system from anywhere in the world with your smartphone. Visit our thermostats page today to learn more about what Brian’s Heating & Cooling offers https://www.briansheatingandcooling.com/thermostats
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Check Insulation
If you have leaks in your insulation, your home won’t be comfortable and your energy bills will steadily increase as your furnace or heat pump is having to work harder to warm your home. Ensure that there are no cold spots near your windows, doors, storage rooms, etc. to keep you Lexington, SC home comfort high and energy bills low this winter season.
Lower Your Thermostat
Try setting your thermostat lower and lower to see how comfortable you can stay while keeping your energy bills at bay. Did you know that you could save up to 10% a year on your energy bills from setting your thermostat back around 7 degrees? See how low you and your family can handle it while staying comfortable and see if you can keep it there all winter long.
Check Your Air Filters
You’ve heard it before but we will say it again, make sure your air filters are changed on a regular basis to maintain proper airflow and to keep your heating and air conditioning system working efficiently. We recommend checking them once a month and changing them out no more than every 3 months.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
Finally, schedule professional heating system maintenance. Professional routine maintenance is the number one key to keeping your furnace or heat pump operating at its highest efficiency. If you’re looking for a trustworthy HVAC contractor in the greater Lexington, SC area, give Brian’s Heating & Cooling a call today!
As those crisp mornings roll into Lexington and the high temps of summer begin to fade, many homeowners breathe easier — but your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system is actually entering a phase where it matters even more. Rather than simply switching from “cooling mode” to “heating mode,” this is the time when smart performance, indoor air quality, and system efficiency all become key to comfort (and cost). Here are four important areas where your HVAC system can make a real difference this season — and how Brian’s Heating & Cooling can help make them work for your home. 1. Fine-Tune Temperature Control for Transitional Days Here in the Lexington area, fall can bring unpredictable swings — warm afternoons, cooler evenings, sudden changes. A system that’s designed only for “full blast heat” may struggle with these transitions, leaving parts of your home too warm, too cool, or switching on and off inefficiently. Setting your thermostat in “auto” fan mode instead of “on” means it runs only when needed rather than continuously circulating air. A smart or programmable thermostat can adjust for the changing patterns, ensuring your system isn’t overworking during mild weather. Regular check-ups to ensure sensors, controls and vents are balanced help avoid hot or cool zones and keep your comfort steady. 2. Balance Humidity and Air Quality as the Season Changes Just because the days are cooler doesn’t mean indoor humidity and air-quality issues vanish. With windows being closed more often, fewer “fresh air” exchanges, and your system shifting modes, the indoor environment needs attention. Your HVAC system should be removing excess moisture (which can lead to mold or musty smells) and helping retain comfortable humidity levels. Upgrading air filters and checking ductwork for leaks helps reduce dust, allergens and stale air that can build up when the house is sealed tight. At Brian’s Heating & Cooling, we can evaluate your indoor-air setup (ventilation, filtration, duct sealing) and recommend targeted improvements that match Lexington’s climate. 3. Efficiency Gains Don’t End with Summer It’s tempting to think the big energy usage is over once the peak summer heat fades, but the truth is: transitional seasons offer some of the best opportunities for efficiency gains — if you catch them. A system in good shape will handle moderate conditions with less energy than one struggling from summer wear. Cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels (even if you’re not actively cooling), verifying duct integrity — these all help your system settle into the cooler period without carrying unnecessary stress. A more efficient system means lower bills, less wear and longer lifespan for your equipment. 4. Maintain Comfort Without the “Blasting Heat” Mentality The cooler weather gives you the chance to focus on long-term comfort and system health instead of emergency fixes. It’s easier and more cost-effective to optimize now than wait until the first cold snap or the next heavy duty cooling cycle. Address small issues now (noises, uneven temps, unexpected fan run) before they escalate. Consider zoning or adjust airflow if some rooms are always colder/warmer — as the outdoor temps moderate, these imbalances become more noticeable. A maintenance check now is not only about “making sure it works,” but about “making sure it works smart.” Why Brian’s Heating & Cooling Is The Local Choice For This Season Local expertise: Serving Lexington, SC since 2005, Brian’s knows how our weather, homes and HVAC systems interact in the Midlands. briansheatingandcooling.com+1 Full-service care: From installation, repair, to preventive maintenance, they’re equipped to optimize every aspect of your HVAC setup — not just “turn on the heat.” Focus on comfort & efficiency: Their approach goes beyond switching modes — it’s about making your system work well for your home in every season. Ready to Make Your Home More Comfortable (and Efficient)? Don’t wait for the first chilly night to realize your system isn’t operating at its best. Contact Brian’s Heating & Cooling at 803-796-1788 or visit our website to schedule a check-in or upgrade discussion . Let them help you move into cooler weather with confidence in your home’s comfort and system performance.
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.
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.