Prepare Your HVAC System for the Fall
info • October 14, 2019
Even though some days still feel like summer is lingering around here in Lexington, South Carolina, we promise that fall is here and the cold weather is approaching and will be here before we know it. That means that your heating and air conditioning needs some TLC before the seasons begin to drastically change. At Brian’s Heating & Cooling, we want to make sure that you are fully prepared for the colder weather ahead and can stay warm and cozy all fall and winter long. Here are a few things you can do to be proactive and prepare your HVAC system for the fall weather ahead:
- Maintenance
- Replace Air Filters
- Consider an Upgrade
- Start Warming Up Your Unit
Conduct Maintenance and Clean Your Units
If you have a furnace, a heat pump or a packaged system, it is important that you schedule a maintenance visit with your HVAC contractor before the cold weather arrives. Additionally, you should also conduct some do it yourself seasonal cleaning on and around your outdoor equipment. You can clean and enhance your system’s efficiency and performance by just making sure that nothing is blocking your outdoor units and that all debris is off of your unit. For maintenance, just call your trusted HVAC contractor and set up an appointment time. This will ensure your equipment is working optimally and ready to provide you heat in the coming months.
Replace Your Air Filters
The general rule of thumb is to change your air filters whenever the season changes. That means you should be changing your filters every three months. It is something that takes very little time to do and can improve your HVAC system’s productivity by 15%. That means more energy savings and improved comfort inside of your home. Make sure you are staying on top of your air filter game, it can make a huge difference to your wallet and to your comfort.
Look Into Buying an Upgrade
This does not apply to everyone but it could apply to some. If your HVAC system is over 10 years old, you have probably been thinking about when you are going to upgrade your system. If you are noticing a change in the overall comfort level of your home, you may be in need of an upgrade as well. The best time to upgrade your system is during the fall because the weather is not too hot and not too cold. If you have been looking for a sign to replace your system, consider this your sign. Contact your local HVAC contractor to see what option is right for you and your home.
Begin to Warm Up Your Heating Unit
Finally, begin to warm up your heating unit to ensure it is working properly after not being used for a good bit of the year. Just like we as humans need to warm up before we go for a run or workout, the same principle applies for your heating unit. Regular use keeps the motor hot and your system loose. It’s not too early to start running your heating unit to get it warmed up for the fall and winter weather ahead of us.
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.
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!