Heating and Cooling Blog

Picture this: 

You wake up one winter morning, and your house is freezing. You walk to your thermostat to see what’s wrong. You discover the temperature is not where it should be.

Great. Your furnace isn’t working. Now what? 

Getting warm is difficult in the cold Kentucky winters if you don’t have heat. That’s why you need to focus on proper heating maintenance. Heating maintenance helps you avoid outages and improves furnace efficiency.

Continue reading to learn about the maintenance you need and the benefits maintenance offers. 

Reasons to Get Heating Maintenance

The average temperature in the winter is 23°F in Kentucky. That’s cold, so you’ll rely on your furnace to stay warm. Maintenance helps with this task.

Heating maintenance in Elizabethtown is helpful for the following reasons:

Improves Efficiency

Maintenance is a preventative service. So, it encourages and helps systems run well. One result is improved furnace efficiency. 

Efficiency affects how well a system heats a home with the energy it uses. High-efficient furnaces heat homes faster and with less energy. 

Well-maintained systems tend to run more efficiently. As a result, proper maintenance leads to decreased energy bills. 

Helps You Stay Comfortable

When a furnace runs well, you stay more comfortable. You’ll have an easier time maintaining your desired temperature, and you’ll feel warmer when you’re home. 

Maintenance also helps you detect problems with your system’s flow. For example, a technician might suggest replacing some of your ductwork if it’s run improperly. 

Ensures All Components Work

Maintaining your system also helps each component work well. Technicians check the parts and replace worn-out ones. You won’t have to wait until it breaks to fix it. 

Prevents Outages and Repairs 

You can also prevent outages and HVAC repairs by maintaining your system. In fact, routine maintenance is one of the best ways to reduce money spent on heating repair bills. 

What Heating Maintenance Involves

The primary form of maintenance you need is an annual tune-up. A tune-up is a comprehensive service that includes multiple steps. 

First, the technician checks every component. The purpose is to detect potential problems. If they remedy them now, they won’t act up later.

When they find bad parts, they’ll replace them. As a result, you’ll reduce the potential for heating outages and repairs. 

Next, they clean the system. A heating system gets dirty with use. Cleaning it helps it run more smoothly and improves a home’s indoor air quality. 

Finally, they grease the parts to promote proper lubrication. Lubrication helps the parts run smoothly and reduces friction. This process also improves a system’s efficiency. 

Schedule Your Maintenance Today

As you can see, heating maintenance in Elizabethtown, KY, is vital for several reasons. It helps you stay warm and comfortable. It also ensures efficient heating for the entire winter. 

Above All Mechanical has a team of trained technicians who perform high-quality services. We provide 24/7 services and work on all system types. We’re licensed and bonded and treat every customer like they’re family.

Reach out today to learn more about our services. 

The average heating bill in the United States is a little over $800. While this price varies depending on house size and climate, the point is that you will likely spend approximately $800 to warm your house this year. 

Understandably, you may not want to put extra money into furnace repair. Finding furnace repair in Bardstown, KY, won’t be too difficult. You can always reach out to Above All Mechanical for furnace maintenance service. 

But wouldn’t you rather save any bit of cash where you can? There’s no point in spending money if you don’t have to.

Below are three tips for saving money on furnace repair. Keep reading to learn more. 

1. Clean Your Furnace and Change the Filter

Most furnace repair work requires a skilled, professional contractor’s hand. However, there are types of DIY maintenance you can perform solo.

If you’ve got an outdoor furnace unit, clean it and remove debris to improve performance. Indoor units need occasional filter maintenance. Some filters are reusable, but if not, you must replace them.

Not only will this help the unit run better, but you’ll notice an operational improvement. Changing the filter will also increase indoor air quality and help save heating and repair bills.

Refusing to clean furnaces and change the filters leaves debris to clog the system and prevents proper air filtration.

2. Perform Regular Maintenance

There are a few kinds of maintenance you can perform on your own. You should remove obstructions around vents so the heat can evenly disperse throughout your home.

Clearing vents help reduce the strain on your HVAV system. Certain other kinds of maintenance need an expert hand. Have regularly scheduled check-ups done on your HVAC unit. 

A licensed technician can inspect your furnace and will spot any issues before they become significant problems. For example, strange noises coming from the furnace are usually cause for concern. 

Seek out your nearest Bardstown, KY, HVAC service if you hear odd sounds in your heating unit. Above All can help before it gets worse. 

3. Consider Upgrading Your Furnace

Not even the best HVAC companies in Bardstown can do anything with a heating unit far past its prime. The average life expectancy of a furnace is 15 to 20 years, but this may vary depending on the unit. 

Outdated or inefficient furnaces will require too much maintenance and upkeep to be worth keeping. You also risk an improperly working unit suddenly quitting on you one day. 

It’s a safer and less expensive bet to purchase a new, energy-efficient furnace. The upfront cost won’t be cheap, but you’ll eventually save money and time with a better model furnace. 

Want to Avoid Furnace Repair? 

The best way to avoid needing furnace repair work is to clean your filters and perform regular maintenance. If all else fails, consider purchasing a new unit. 

If you do need heating and furnace repair services, you can count on Above All Mechanical to help. We service homes throughout Bardstown and Elizabethtown, Kentucky. 

Contact us to schedule an appointment or for a free furnace estimate today!

Ignoring maintenance for your HVAC system could cost you thousands in repairs. The average replacement cost in Elizabethtown, KY runs between $6,600 and $8,400. 

One component that suffers when you forget about maintenance is your thermostat. HVAC preventative maintenance can boost thermostat performance.

Read on to find out how maintaining your HVAC system helps your thermostat do its job better. It’s one of the easiest ways to save on repairs and it helps optimize the lifespan of your system.

The Thermostat Plays a Leading Role

If you wish to maintain a comfortable indoor environment this winter, treat your thermostat as your best friend. That means nurturing the friendship by taking care of the whole system, not only that single component.

Think about your best friend for a minute. Best friends always seem to know what to do or say to make you feel warm and loved. That’s kind of how your thermostat works.

The problem is that unless you schedule preventative HVAC maintenance, the thermostat doesn’t know what to do to keep you warm. Even modern programmable thermostats need help.

The thermostat isn’t only the heart of your HVAC system, it’s the brain behind the whole operation. You tell the thermostat what temperature you want inside your home. The thermostat regulates the temperature.

Preventative HVAC Maintenance and Thermostat Health

If you neglect HVAC maintenance, it can have several adverse effects on your thermostat’s performance. Here are a few that can impact your comfort this winter:

• Inaccurate temperature readings
• Delayed responses
• Reduced energy efficiency
• Thermostat calibration issues
• Unreliable performance
• Long-term damage
• Short cycling

Without regular maintenance, your HVAC components may become worn or malfunction. This can lead to delays in the system’s response to the thermostat’s commands.

How to Extend HVAC Lifespan and Help the Thermostat 

Everything listed above not only impacts the thermostat but can cause premature wear and tear on your HVAC system. If you can fine-tune the system, the thermostat will behave itself and perform like a charm this winter.

You can do several DIY maintenance tasks to help the thermostat perform better year-round. Changing the air filter is the easiest.

Scheduling regular HVAC service is the smartest move you can make. Please call your HVAC technician at least once a year, ideally in the fall, you can make sure your system is in peak condition for the winter.

During maintenance, your technician will clean, lubricate, and inspect all components. This helps prevent breakdowns, extends the system’s lifespan, and improves thermostat performance.

HVAC preventative maintenance, with its system-saving advantages, can save you thousands of dollars on repairs and help you avoid the need for a new HVAC system this year.

Schedule HVAC Maintenance Before Winter Arrives

We’ve shown you how to make your HVAC system last longer and improve thermostat performance. Now is the time to schedule HVAC preventative maintenance.

Make sure to call Above All Mechanical and schedule maintenance. We take care of HVAC installations, repairs, and maintenance for anyone living in the Elizabethtown, KY area. We’re here for you 24/7 and can work on all makes and models.

Reach out today to book your appointment.

There is still much scientists are learning about how indoor air quality impacts our health.

Nevertheless, we know that it’s something we must monitor. If there are ways we can improve the air we breathe, it makes sense to take those steps.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the easy ways you can help improve your air quality this winter. If you are a homeowner in Bardstown, KY, read on to learn some simple actions before winter arrives.

Winter in Bardstown

Winter in Bardstown can sometimes hit low temperatures and temperatures as cold as -0°C.

Most often, the weather varies during the winter, so humidity levels fluctuate. It means you need a constant indoor environment that keeps you comfortable in winter.

The Risks of Winter on Indoor Air Quality

A homeowner’s priority in winter is keeping the cold air out. Doors and windows remain shut and well-sealed.

That makes sense because it conserves the heat. However, there is a downside. It reduces home ventilation, directly impacting the indoor air quality.

Over time, indoor pollutants build up in the home. That can lead to health risks from a more toxic air quality. Understanding this risk during winter is the first step to addressing it.

Common Indoor Air Pollutants

In the winter months, your home becomes a risky environment for several pollutants. The first is mold. That happens in damp conditions, which can occur when you lack ventilation.

Pet dander can also become an issue for those with allergies. Others may suffer from dust allergies during the winter months, too.

Smoke from fireplaces can become a hazard in a poorly ventilated house, a health risk to those with asthma and similar conditions.

Can HVAC Systems Help Maintain Clean Air?

The good news about your indoor air quality is that there is much you can do to improve it, even in winter.

Your HVAC system will play a pivotal role here. HVAC filters can help remove air pollution and ensure fresh, clean air is circulating indoors.

To achieve that, you need to ensure your HVAC is well-maintained. Book a professional if you notice a problem, and always schedule a standard service.

Most importantly, ensure filters are regularly changed, central to air quality. That will ensure you get the most out of your system during winter.

A well-maintained system will also help lower your energy costs during that period.

Practical Steps to Improve Indoor Air Quality

To breathe fresh air in your Bardstown home this winter, consider some extra steps to improve your air quality.

First, invest in an air purifier. That will help reduce pollutant levels. Second, buy some indoor house plants to boost oxygen in your home.

A final tip is to reduce toxins in the home from sources like fires, chemical cleaners, and candles.

Take Steps Now to Protect Your Home Before Winter Arrives

Don’t let winter arrive without protecting your home and your family. By scheduling your HVAC maintenance, you can help ensure you have the best indoor air quality, whatever the weather.

Book your AC maintenance services with our Above All Mechanical LLC Bardstown team now, and let’s ensure you can enjoy clean air this Kentucky winter.

Considering how hot and dry Kentucky can be during the summer, the last thing you want is an HVAC unit that underperforms or outright fails.

Your HVAC equipment can last a long time if proper maintenance is performed. It’s also essential to get any needed repairs done promptly.

What must you do to keep your HVAC unit working properly so it doesn’t disappoint you when you need it most?

Continue reading for an HVAC maintenance checklist that’ll help keep your Elizabethtown, KY home cool all summer.

Check Your Thermostat

One of the first things you should do is check the thermostat, which is likely someplace on the wall in your living room, den, or hallway. You need to verify that it’s working.

If your thermostat is malfunctioning, it can cause your HVAC or AC to function erratically. So, if you detect any issues, contact a provider of heating and cooling maintenance services for assistance.

Clean the Condenser Coils

Another essential maintenance item involves assessing and cleaning the condenser coils. These coils contain the liquid refrigerant necessary for the proper operation of your AC.

Dirty condenser coils can jeopardize the efficient functioning of your HVAC. So, don’t overlook cleaning them, and switch off the condenser before doing so.

Change the Air Filters

It’s also a good idea to change the air filter regularly. Check the instruction manual that came with your HVAC unit to learn about the proper intervals for changing the air filters.

Various factors might necessitate getting new air filters more regularly. That’s one reason it makes sense to contact AC companies for the service you require.

Clean the Air Ducts

You should also get your air ducts cleaned at least once a year. If you fail to get this done, dust and debris can block the proper flow of air in the ductwork.

In addition to jeopardizing the interior air quality and presenting health concerns, it can negatively impact the performance of your HVAC unit.

So, when you schedule an AC and heating tune up, consider getting your air ducts cleaned as well.

Assess Refrigerant Levels

It’s also vital to assess the refrigerant levels in your HVAC equipment to ensure there are no leaks. Proper refrigerant levels will enable your AC to work as intended. If it’s low on refrigerant, it needs to be replenished.

Consider seeking an AC repair free estimate if there’s a leak somewhere.

Don’t Overlook HVAC Maintenance

If you live in or around Elizabethtown, KY, you need an HVAC unit. Buying a model from a reputable manufacturer and installing it will is vital.

One thing to keep in mind is the importance of regular HVAC maintenance. Don’t put it on the back burner. It needs to be a priority.

You can enter “AC repair near me” in a Google search. It’s best to save yourself the hassle by contacting us at Above All Mechanical.

We offer help with air conditioning, heating, refrigeration, and thermostat installation and repair. Let us know how we can help you.

A modern, well-maintained air conditioning system can last up to 17 years. If your air conditioner is reaching the end of its lifespan, it’s time to consider an upgrade.

Age, however, isn’t the only thing that determines the condition of your HVAC. There are other signs that it’s time to start looking up, “AC repair near me.”

Being able to recognize the warning signs can help Bardstown homeowners stay on top of maintenance and keep cool all summer long.

Read on for four air conditioning problems that you should know about as a Bardstown, KY homeowner.

1. No Cool Air

Sometimes you might hear the sound of your AC running without feeling any real results. It could be that no air is blowing out of your vents at all or that the air flow feels neutral or warm, rather than cool.

No air flow may indicate that the blower belt needs replacing. Warm air, on the other hand, may indicate that a buildup of debris is causing the compressor to overheat or that your AC is running on low refrigerant levels.

2. Inconsistent Air Flow

What if your home cooling starts to kick on at strange times? Maybe it only runs for a few minutes before shutting off or it runs for hours on end even when your home has reached the set temperature.

There are a lot of potential culprits, here. Sometimes it’s a matter of a faulty thermostat or a broken internal piece. Other times you may discover that your AC unit is either too weak or too strong for your home.

3. Leaks

When was the last time you took a look at your outdoor air conditioning unit? It’s not always easy to spot leaks, especially if the coolant lines are leaking refrigerant. One indicator is the presence of odd-colored stains around your AC unit.

Likewise, you may not take note of a little condensation around your AC unit. However, puddles of water or excessive moisture indicate blocked or faulty drainage pipes.

4. Low Energy Efficiency

Did you know that switching to a high-efficiency HVAC system can reduce your energy consumption by up to 50%? If you’re looking for ways to save on your heating and cooling services, consider investing in a system with a high energy rating.

It’s also worth noting that if you don’t maintain your HVAC system, you’re going to start noticing a decrease in energy efficiency. Your bills may go up as the AC unit strains to keep up with regular cooling demands.

Looking for AC Repair Near Me?

Staying on top of HVAC maintenance can save you money in the long run. If any of these signs sound familiar to you, it’s time to search, “AC repair near me.”

Above All Mechanical is a top HVAC company in Bardstown, KY. If you need heating and cooling services or installation, we’re here to help. Contact us today and let us know what’s going on with your home’s HVAC system.

Year after year, Kentucky gears up for a summer full of scorching temperatures. Given the current situation with climate change, that trend is likely only going to get worse. During the hottest weather, it’s important to maximize all your ways of staying cool in Elizabethtown. Keeping windows open at night, shading them during the day, and adjusting that thermostat right. The biggest change, though, will come from a new AC unit.

If your home has a rickety old HVAC system, it’s time for a replacement. Here are all the benefits you get when you purchase an AC unit brand-new.

1. A New AC Unit Has Higher Efficiency

Perhaps your AC unit has been chugging along for decades. The neighbors remark that “they don’t make them like they used to!” This is true, but not in the way they think.

A new AC system will be miles more efficient than an older one. You can verify for yourself by comparing the included energy efficiency stickers. This means that the new AC can get just as cool as the old one at a much lower voltage.

2. It Saves on Your Electricity Bill

The flip side of high efficiency is that you save on electricity, too. Say you’d like to keep things at a cool 72°, same as always. You can now do so for a fraction of the electricity.

The best AC unit you can buy in Elizabethtown will have exceptional energy efficiency. It may just be worth spending the extra money for the savings you’ll get on your utilities in the future.

3. It May Be Better for the Environment

Older air conditioners, particularly those manufactured in the year 2010 or earlier, have a problematic refrigerant. R-22 is a known ozone-depleting chemical. That’s a big deal since the ozone layer is the only thing protecting us from cancer-inducing UV radiation.

The types of AC use environmentally-friendly refrigerants that won’t pollute the ecosystem if they leak. Plus, the energy efficiency is better for the environment. Less use of electricity means less burnt fossil fuels.

4. It Saves You Money on Repairs

Keeping your old unit may seem like the most budget-friendly choice. Don’t forget, though, about all the repairs it will require. The older it gets, the more often you’ll have to dial your HVAC technician in Elizabethtown.

Combine the cost of repairs with poor energy savings. Now, you have a case for purchasing a new one–one that won’t require as many repairs.

Replace Your AC with Above All Mechanical LLC

A new AC unit is an investment, but all things considered, it’s one of the best ones you can make for your home. The new system will have far superior energy efficiency, saving you big money on your utility bills. Newer units are more environmentally friendly too and require fewer repairs.

Above All Mechanical LLC provides exceptional HVAC services to Elizabethtown and Bardstown. We can fix your existing AC unit or replace it altogether. Contact us here for a free quote.