Home & Life Comfort with Derek Cole

The sun is inching higher in the sky, warming the earth, and we know that another summer is just around the corner. This is the time when homeowners start running ceiling fans and hope that the AC unit still works from last summer. AC is about comfort, sure, but as the years go by, you realize it's also about the reliability of those cold gusts that help turn sweltering afternoons into cool comfort.

The last thing you want is for your AC to fail on the hottest day of the year. To ensure you can rely on your system, we've put together the ultimate AC maintenance checklist. Whether you're a diligent seasonal veteran or a first-time homeowner, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step to keep your AC running smoothly, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

Derek Cole is no amateur when it comes to home comfort! He's been in the heating and air conditioning industry since 2001, managing Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® - a respected franchise, based out of Laurinburg NC that operates since 1953. His achievements have already earned him spots on CBS, FOX News NBC ABC and Bloomberg Business sharing all about improving your home environment for more comfort. And if these credentials don't speak enough proof... Derek also shares his challenges which come from living with multiple sclerosis from 2012 onwards as he tackles everyday life.

Heat pumps are an essential part of your household, providing much-needed warmth during the cold winter months when that is your source of heat. However, like any other household appliances, heat pumps are machines that can break down. If you notice that your unit has stopped blowing hot air, then it is time to take action. The Thermostat is Not Set Correctly - The thermostat controls your heat pump's temperature, and if it's not working properly, then it can prevent your unit from heating properly. Check if your thermostat is set correctly and that it's not in "cooling" mode by accident. Dirty Filters - Dirty and clogged filters stop the airflow, causing the heat pump to struggle to heat your home. Replace your filters regularly to ensure they don't get dusty, dirty, and clogged. One trick is to change them at least every three months or more often if you have pets or suffer from allergies. Clogged Coils and Fins - Your heat pump's condenser and evaporator coils, along with its fins, work together to remove moisture and transfer heat. When these coils and fins get clogged with dirt, they stop working effectively. Clean them thoroughly with a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner. Consider hiring a professional to do this task for you since it can be a little tricky. Low Refrigerant - The refrigerant inside your heat pump is responsible for moving heat from outside to inside your home. If there's not enough refrigerant, the unit will not extract sufficient heat, causing it to blow cold air or even use the emergency heat to heat the home. Only a licensed technician should handle refrigerant because it requires special certifications. Compressor Problems - When the compressor is not working, your heat pump will not heat the home. Fixing the problem can get complicated, so contact a professional to have your compressor examined. Your heat pump not heating your home can be frustrating, especially during winter. It is essential to keep your heat pump properly maintained to avoid problems in the long run. If you encounter issues with your heating pump, do not hesitate to call a professional to have a look. The above-discussed problems are some of the most common reasons why a heat pump won't heat the way it's supposed to. By following these tips, you can save time and money on service calls and keep your home comfortable during the cold winter months. Your friend in comfort and energy savings, Derek Cole

As homeowners, we are constantly trying to find ways to reduce our energy bills and save money. One of the most common tactics is to close the vents in rooms that are not in use. Although this may seem like a logical solution to save money on energy bills, it may not be the best idea. In fact, closing vents in unoccupied rooms can significantly impact your HVAC system and cause long-term damage.

It is a common misconception that closing vents in a room you’re not occupying will save you money on your energy bill. While it may seem logical, it can actually cause more harm than good. Closing vents in a room reduces airflow, which can lead to several problems within your heating and cooling system. The system compensates for the closed vents by working harder to distribute warm or cool air throughout the house. This puts additional stress on your HVAC system, leading to increased wear and tear, higher energy consumption, and ultimately, a higher energy bill.

Closing vents can also impact the balance of your HVAC system. All HVAC systems are designed with a certain number of vents and registers for optimal airflow. Closing vents in unoccupied rooms can lead to an imbalance of airflow within your system. The decreased flow of air to the closed-off rooms can cause high pressure in other areas of your home, leading to issues such as uneven heating or cooling, reduced indoor air quality, and increased humidity levels.

Another factor that can impact your HVAC system is the ductwork. Closing vents can cause a buildup of air pressure within the ductwork. This can lead to leaks in your ductwork, which can ultimately lead to poor indoor air quality and higher energy bills. Leaks in the ductwork also allow air to escape before reaching the desired temperature, again putting additional stress on the system and wasting energy.

Closing vents in unoccupied rooms may seem like a small change, but it can have a big impact on your home’s energy consumption and overall indoor air quality. Instead, consider alternative solutions like using a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature in unoccupied rooms or using fans to help circulate air throughout your home. These solutions promote optimal airflow and help maintain a healthy indoor environment while saving you money on your energy bill in the long run.

Derek Cole is no amateur when it comes to home comfort! He's been in the heating and air conditioning industry since 2001, managing Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® - a respected franchise, based out of Laurinburg NC that operates since 1953. His achievements have already earned him spots on CBS, FOX News NBC ABC and Bloomberg Business sharing all about improving your home environment for more comfort. And if these credentials don't speak enough proof... Derek also shares his challenges which come from living with multiple sclerosis from 2012 onwards as he tackles everyday life

Derek Cole is no amateur when it comes to home comfort! He's been in the heating and air conditioning industry since 2001, managing Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® - a respected franchise, based out of Laurinburg NC that operates since 1953. His achievements have already earned him spots on CBS, FOX News NBC ABC and Bloomberg Business sharing all about improving your home environment for more comfort. And if these credentials don't speak enough proof... Derek also shares his challenges which come from living with multiple sclerosis from 2012 onwards as he tackles everyday life

Derek Cole is no amateur when it comes to home comfort! He's been in the heating and air conditioning industry since 2001, managing Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® - a respected franchise, based out of Laurinburg NC that operates since 1953. His achievements have already earned him spots on CBS, FOX News NBC ABC and Bloomberg Business sharing all about improving your home environment for more comfort. And if these credentials don't speak enough proof... Derek also shares his challenges which come from living with multiple sclerosis from 2012 onwards as he tackles everyday life

Homeowners often find themselves confused by the strange smells they encounter when they turn on their heating system. One of the most common concerns is the smell of burning from the heat strips of a heat pump. This smell can be alarming, but it is important to understand what causes it and how to handle it properly.

1. Understanding Heat Pump Heat Strips

Heat pumps use heat strips as backup heating elements when the temperature outside is too low to provide enough warmth. These strips are made of electric coils that heat up when electricity is passed through them. The strips are located inside the air handler unit or in your package heat pump. When the heat strips turn on, they can have a burning smell. This is because the coils are heating up for the first time in a while and any dust or debris that has accumulated on them is being burned off.

2. Identifying a Serious Problem

While the burning smell from your heat pump’s heat strips is normal, a strong or persistent smell can be a sign of a serious problem. For example, if you notice a burning smell that doesn’t go away after a few minutes or if the smell is accompanied by smoke or sparks, you need to turn off your heating system immediately and call a professional. These could be signs of a more serious issue, such as a faulty part or electrical problem that could present a safety hazard.

3. How to Handle the Burning Smell

If you notice a burning smell coming from your heat pump, don’t panic! Simply turn off your heating system and wait for a few minutes. This will allow the heat strips to cool down and any dust or debris to settle. If you turn your heat back on and the smell persists, you may need to have your heat pump inspected by a professional. While it may be tempting to try and identify the problem yourself, it’s important to remember that your heating system contains electrical components that can be dangerous if mishandled.4. Preventing Future IssuesOne of the best ways to prevent a burning smell from your heat pump’s heat strips is to have your system regularly maintained by a professional. During a maintenance appointment, a technician will inspect your heat strips, activate them, and replace any parts that are showing signs of wear and tear. This can help ensure that your heat pump is operating at peak efficiency and reduce the chances of encountering burning smells or other issues.

5. Final Thoughts

While the burning smell from your heat pump’s heat strips can be alarming, it is not necessarily a cause for concern. Most of the time, the smell is simply a sign that your heat strips are working properly and burning off any dust or debris that has accumulated on them. However, if the smell is strong or persistent, you should turn off your heating system and call a professional as soon as possible. By understanding why your heat pump smells like it’s burning and how to handle the issue, you can stay warm and safe this winter.

Heating your home is essential during the winter months, but it’s important to recognize when something isn’t working quite right. If you notice a burning smell coming from your heat pump, don’t panic! Simply turn off your heating system and wait for a few minutes. Most of the time, the smell will dissipate on its own. However, if the smell persists, it’s important to call a professional for help. By taking proactive steps to maintain your heating system and promptly addressing any issues, you can ensure that your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long. -- Derek Cole is the General Manager of Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, an independently owned and operated franchise based in Laurinburg, North Carolina since 1953. He has been in the HVAC industry since 2001 and has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise Player Spotlight. Derek has also been seen on CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, and Bloomberg Business sharing about home comfort tips. Find Derek here: Text him: 910-463-5811

Allergies can be a nightmare for homeowners, especially if someone in the family is prone to them. Allergens are everywhere, and they can cause sneezing, watery eyes, runny noses, and breathing difficulties. Fortunately, allergy filters can make a significant difference in combating allergens in your home. In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of allergy filters and why they are a worthwhile investment.

First, it's important to understand what allergy filters are. These are specialized filters that catch and trap allergens from the air, including pet dander, mold spores, pollen, and dust mites. Allergy filters come in different varieties, including HEPA filters, electrostatic filters, and activated carbon filters. HEPA filters are known to be the most effective, as they catch up to 99.97% of particles.

The benefits of using allergy filters are numerous. By capturing allergens, allergy filters allow you to breathe cleaner air, reducing the risk of asthma attacks, allergies, and other respiratory problems. They also help to keep your home clean by preventing dust, pollen, and other allergens from settling on surfaces. This means less dusting and vacuuming for you and less wear and tear on your HVAC system.

When it comes to purchasing allergy filters, there are a few things to keep in mind. You’ll want to look for filters with a high MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating. A high MERV rating means that the filter is more effective at capturing smaller particles. It's also a good idea to invest in filters that are specifically designed for allergies and to change your filters regularly, as they can become clogged and less effective over time.

Another consideration when using allergy filters is your HVAC system. You’ll want to make sure that your system is compatible with the filters you choose, and that the filters don’t restrict the flow of air too much. Too much restriction can make your system work harder and lead to higher utility bills. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional HVAC technician if you have any concerns.

Allergy filters are a crucial tool in the fight against allergens in your home. They help keep the air clean and your home free of dust and other particles that can trigger allergies and respiratory problems. If you’re considering investing in allergy filters, be sure to choose filters with a high MERV rating, consider your HVAC system, and change your filters regularly. With the right filters and proper maintenance, you can create a healthier, more comfortable living space for you and your family. -- Derek Cole is the General Manager of Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, an independently owned and operated franchise based in Laurinburg, North Carolina since 1953. He has been in the HVAC industry since 2001 and has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise Player Spotlight. Derek has also been seen on CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, and Bloomberg Business sharing about home comfort tips. Find Derek here: Text him: 910-463-5811 Simmons One Hour Heating & Air: https://www.simmonsonehour.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/derekmcole Twitter: http://twitter.com/derekmcole Instagram: http://instagram.com/derekmcole Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-cole-2634322b/ Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/derekmcole Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/derek-cole/id1260964387

As the weather starts to cool down, homeowners will have to rely more and more on their heating and air units to keep their homes comfortable. However, before you turn that thermostat up, you want to make sure that your HVAC system is in good working condition.

Get Your HVAC Unit Checked Before the Cooler Months Arrive

One of the most important factors in ensuring that your HVAC unit is working properly during the cooler months is to get it checked by a qualified technician before the weather starts to cool down. This way, you can identify any issues that need to be addressed before they turn into more significant problems later. A technician can check your system for refrigerant leaks, signs of wear and tear, and temperatures of your system, among other things. By doing so, you can have the peace of mind that your heating unit is in top shape and will keep your home comfortable during the cooler months.

Invest in a Programmable WiFi Thermostat

Another way to make sure that your heating system is efficient, especially during the cooler months, is to invest in a programmable WiFi thermostat. These thermostats can be scheduled to automatically turn on and off your HVAC system at specific times or even days. You can also use your smartphone or tablet app to control the temperature at home while you are away! This means that you will have more control over your system, and you will be able to save energy and money. For example, you can program your thermostat to turn on your heating or air system just before you arrive home, turn it off when you leave, or lower the temperature when you are sleeping.

Change Your Filters Regularly

Your heating and air system filters trap pollutants, dust, and other particles that are in the air. Over time, these filters can become clogged, which can decrease the efficiency of your system and cause breakdowns. To avoid this situation, it is essential to change your filters regularly. Depending on the type of HVAC system that you have and the type of filter, you may need to change them once a month or every three months.

Use Your Ceiling Fans

Another way to help your unit during the cooler months is to use your ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can help your system circulate the air more efficiently in your home. For example, as warmth is produced in the room, ceiling fans help move that hot air upwards and circulate it around the room's edges, this circulation ensures that you use the heating or air system less.

Keep Your Vents Unobstructed

Lastly, homeowners should ensure that their vents are unobstructed. Vents blocked by furniture, rugs, or curtains restrict the flow of air from your system, which causes your system to work harder, and use more energy. Moving any obstructions can help you save money and energy and ensure that your HVAC system is operating correctly.

In conclusion, keeping your HVAC unit in top shape during the cooler months doesn't have to be complicated. As a homeowner, you can get your unit checked by a qualified technician, invest in a programmable WiFi thermostat, change your filters regularly, use your ceiling fans, and keep your vents unobstructed. By doing so, you could save money, use less energy, and ensure that your unit lasts longer. So, whether you're in the midst of doing your routine HVAC maintenance, or you need expert HVAC services, these tips should help you out significantly to keep your home cozy during the colder months. -- Derek Cole is the General Manager of Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, an independently owned and operated franchise based in Laurinburg, North Carolina since 1953. He has been in the HVAC industry since 2001 and has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise Player Spotlight. Derek has also been seen on CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, and Bloomberg Business sharing about home comfort tips.

What HVAC Brands Don't Tell You--Derek Cole is the General Manager of Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, an independently owned and operated franchise based in Laurinburg, North Carolina since 1953. He has been in the HVAC industry since 2001 and has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise Player Spotlight. Derek has also been seen on CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, and Bloomberg Business sharing about home comfort tips. Find Derek here: Text him: 910-463-5811 Simmons One Hour Heating & Air: https://www.simmonsonehour.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/derekmcole Twitter: http://twitter.com/derekmcole Instagram: http://instagram.com/derekmcole Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-cole-2634322b/ Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/derekmcole Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/derek-cole/id1260964387

Is it normal for my heat pump to run continuously? That's a question many people have. Let's compare it to driving your car. Imagine it's a scorching hot day and you're driving with the AC on. Would you constantly turn off and on the AC in your car to stay cool? Most likely not, because it would just make the car heat up even more. The same principle applies to your heat pump or air conditioner.

Whether it's blazing hot outside or freezing cold, your heat pump or gas unit will not shut off until it reaches the temperature you set on your thermostat. It's designed to satisfy that thermostat, regardless of the weather conditions. So, if you're wondering why your heat pump keeps running, there's no need to worry. It's completely normal.

Some people may worry that their unit is wearing out because it runs for long periods of time. But here's the thing: the unit is meant to keep you comfortable, and that involves a continuous operation. It knows what your ideal temperature is and understands how to maintain it efficiently. So, it won't even turn off if it detects a slight increase or drop in temperature because it wants to ensure your comfort.

Think of it like fuel efficiency in your car. It's much more efficient to take a long trip on the interstate with a consistent speed than to go on a stop-and-go journey with lots of traffic. The same principle applies to your heat pump. It's designed to run continuously for optimal efficiency, rather than constantly cycling on and off.

When the unit starts, it uses the most power, just like a car. Therefore, the longer it runs, the more energy you're actually saving by avoiding frequent start-ups and shutdowns.

So, rest assured that your heat pump is doing its job perfectly. It's designed to run for extended periods of time to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient.

Derek Cole is the General Manager of Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, an independently owned and operated franchise based in Laurinburg, North Carolina since 1953. He has been in the HVAC industry since 2001 and has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise Player Spotlight. Derek has also been seen on CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, and Bloomberg Business sharing about home comfort tips. Find Derek here: Text him: 910-463-5811 Simmons One Hour Heating & Air: https://www.simmonsonehour.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/derekmcole Twitter: http://twitter.com/derekmcole Instagram: http://instagram.com/derekmcole Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-cole-2634322b/ Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/derekmcole Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/derek-cole/id1260964387

Derek Cole is the General Manager of Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, an independently owned and operated franchise based in Laurinburg, North Carolina since 1953. He has been in the HVAC industry since 2001 and has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise Player Spotlight. Derek has also been seen on CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, and Bloomberg Business sharing about home comfort tips. Find Derek here: Text him: 910-463-5811 Simmons One Hour Heating & Air: https://www.simmonsonehour.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/derekmcole Twitter: http://twitter.com/derekmcole Instagram: http://instagram.com/derekmcole Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-cole-2634322b/ Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/derekmcole Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/derek-cole/id1260964387

Linkedin Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/attention-your-unit-constantly-running-low-refrigerant-derek-cole Home & Life Comfort Newsletter: Subscribe on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6998670440009281537 Derek Cole is the General Manager of Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, an independently owned and operated franchise based in Laurinburg, North Carolina since 1953. He has been in the HVAC industry since 2001 and has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise Player Spotlight. Derek has also been seen on CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, and Bloomberg Business sharing about home comfort tips. Find Derek here: Text him: 910-463-5811 Simmons One Hour Heating & Air: https://www.simmonsonehour.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/derekmcole Twitter: http://twitter.com/derekmcole Instagram: http://instagram.com/derekmcole Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-cole-2634322b/ Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/add/derekmcole Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/derek-cole/id1260964387