Preparing Your HVAC System for Fall: Key Maintenance Tips

September 12, 2024

As the days get shorter and the temperatures start to drop in Lexington, SC, it’s time to ensure your home is ready for the cooler months ahead. While we often focus on pulling out warmer clothing and prepping for the holidays, it’s just as important to give your HVAC system the attention it needs to handle the upcoming fall and winter seasons. Here at Brian’s Heating & Cooling, we want to help you stay comfortable throughout the colder months. With a few simple maintenance tasks, you can improve the efficiency of your heating system, avoid unexpected breakdowns, and ensure your home stays cozy all season long. Here’s how to prepare your HVAC system for fall:


1. Change Your Air Filter

The simplest step in preparing your HVAC system for fall is replacing the air filter. Throughout the summer, your system likely accumulated dust, dirt, and allergens that can clog the filter and reduce airflow. A clogged filter forces your system to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and unnecessary wear and tear on your equipment. By replacing the filter at the start of fall, you’ll improve your system’s efficiency and indoor air quality. We recommend checking your filter every 30-60 days and replacing it as needed.


2. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up

Preventive maintenance is crucial to the longevity and performance of your HVAC system. Scheduling a fall tune-up with Brian’s Heating & Cooling ensures your heating system is thoroughly inspected, cleaned, and adjusted for optimal performance. Our trained technicians will:


  • Inspect the thermostat and controls
  • Check and tighten electrical connections
  • Lubricate moving parts
  • Clean the blower and other components
  • Test for gas leaks (if applicable)


A professional tune-up not only helps prevent costly repairs down the road but also ensures your system is running efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills.


3. Inspect Your Ductwork

Leaky or damaged ductwork can significantly impact the efficiency of your HVAC system. As we transition from cooling to heating, it’s important to make sure your ductwork is in good condition. Leaks can cause warm air to escape before it reaches your living spaces, forcing your system to work harder and increasing your energy costs. If you notice uneven heating or higher-than-usual utility bills, it may be time to have your ducts inspected and sealed. Our team at Brian’s Heating & Cooling can assess your ductwork to ensure it’s in top shape for fall and winter.


4. Test Your Thermostat

Your thermostat plays a major role in keeping your home comfortable. Before the colder weather hits, make sure your thermostat is functioning properly. Test your thermostat by switching between cooling and heating modes, and ensure that it’s accurately reading the temperature.

Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat if you haven’t already. These thermostats allow you to set schedules and adjust temperatures remotely, helping you save on energy costs while maintaining comfort.


5. Check Your Outdoor Unit

Although your heating system will be doing the heavy lifting in fall and winter, it’s important not to neglect your outdoor unit. Over the summer, debris like leaves, grass, and dirt can accumulate around your air conditioner’s outdoor condenser. Before fall is in full swing, clear away any debris to ensure proper airflow and avoid damage. Additionally, if you’re using a heat pump, make sure the outdoor unit is clear of obstructions so it can efficiently heat your home.


6. Seal Windows and Doors

While this isn’t a direct HVAC maintenance tip, sealing drafts in your home can greatly improve your system’s efficiency. Check your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks that could let in cold air. Sealing these gaps with weatherstripping or caulk will keep the warmth in and prevent your HVAC system from overworking.


7. Consider an HVAC Upgrade

If your heating system is more than 10-15 years old or frequently requires repairs, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Newer HVAC systems are much more energy-efficient, which can save you money on heating costs over time. If you’re interested in exploring options for a new system, our team at Brian’s Heating & Cooling can help you find the perfect solution for your home. To learn more about some of the energy-efficient heating equipment we carry and install here at Brian's Heating & Cooling, check out our products page today.


Stay Comfortable This Fall with Brian's Heating & Cooling

Taking the time to prepare your HVAC system for fall is essential to keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient. At Brian's Heating & Cooling, we're dedicated to helping homeowners in Lexington, SC, maintain their heating and cooling systems year-round. If you're ready to schedule your fall tune-up or need help with any HVAC issues, contact us today. Let us help you stay warm and worry-free this season!

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!