HVAC Repairs

The Importance of Regular Filter Changes in Your HVAC System in Carmel, IN

Have you heard that indoor air pollution can be up to five times higher than outdoor air pollution?

Having a healthy home relies on the proper functioning of an HVAC system. As the weather shifts from hot summers to chilly winters, the importance of these systems can't be overstated.

One often overlooked but crucial aspect of HVAC system upkeep is regular filter changes. Read on to uncover the fascinating facts about air filters and why you can't neglect your HVAC system.

The Heart of HVAC Systems

HVAC systems work hard to keep your home cozy or cool, depending on the season. These systems work by circulating conditioned air throughout your living spaces. The air passes through the HVAC filter before entering your rooms.

This filter serves as a barrier that captures harmful particles. Over time, the filter becomes clogged with these pollutants. This hinders the efficiency of your HVAC system.

The Crucial Role of HVAC Filters

HVAC filters are not merely accessories but essential components that ensure the quality of the air you breathe indoors. Imagine breathing in air contaminated with dust, allergens, and pollutants.

Regular filter changes help maintain healthy indoor air quality by trapping these harmful particles. Clean filters also ensure that your HVAC system operates well.

Enhanced Indoor Air Quality

Dirty filters can't capture pollutants. This leads to degraded indoor air quality. This can do the following:

• Trigger allergies
• Worsen respiratory issues
• Affect the health of your family members and pets

Regular filter changes alleviate these concerns. Heating and cooling maintenance is also helpful. Your household will get cleaner, fresher air.

Improved Air Conditioning Energy Efficiency

A clogged filter forces your HVAC system to work harder to push air through. This strains the system and results in higher energy consumption. By changing the filters, your system can operate better, which reduces your energy bills.

Extended HVAC System Lifespan

HVAC systems are considerable investments. Regular AC and heating tune-ups can impact their longevity. Changing the filters ensures that your system doesn't have to work overtime.

Finding the Right AC Service

When it comes to AC repair in Carmel, finding reliable HVAC companies is essential. Reputable companies offer services like AC repair free estimates and maintenance. These services help you plan and budget for any necessary repairs or tune-ups.

Preventing Common Issues

Neglecting HVAC filter changes can lead to various problems. An air conditioner leaking or an AC pan leaking is a common issue caused by clogged filters. The restricted airflow can cause the cooling coils to freeze, leading to leaks.

Regular filter changes prevent such issues and the subsequent pricey repairs.

Heating and Cooling Near Me: Do You Need Help?

Maintaining the comfort and health of your home in Carmel, IN, goes hand in hand with regular HVAC system filter changes. Teaming up with the right AC companies will also help.

Is your Carmel, IN home in need of HVAC services? Contact LCS Heating and Cooling to schedule a visit.

by HVAC Expert

What To Expect From the AC Installation Process in Fishers, IN

Summertime temperatures in Fishers can easily reach the mid-80s. If you haven't thought about AC installation yet, now's the time.

When your old AC unit reaches its breaking point, it's always best to replace it rather than try to find AC repair. If you don't know much about the AC installation process, it can be a daunting prospect.

Today, we're going to demystify AC installation by telling you exactly what to expect. As one of the top heating and cooling maintenance and installation companies in Indianapolis, we always strive to make the process as quick and painless as possible so that you can just enjoy cool temperatures and great indoor air quality.

Keep reading and you'll see that AC installation doesn't have to be difficult.

AC Problems

AC units last around 15 years. If your AC unit starts exhibiting issues like the air conditioner leaking or a lack of cooling, it's best to type "AC repair near me" into Google and see if you can just get an AC and heating tune-up. If your unit is too old, however, they'll suggest a replacement. 

Finding Heating and Cooling Near Me

To find a great AC installer, you need to look at a few key things. First, look at the customer reviews, which give you a sense of the reputation of each local HVAC company. From there, you can look into experience, licensing, and professional certifications.

When you choose LCS Heating & Cooling, we'll give you a free estimate for your AC installation, as well as an AC repair free estimate when your unit is acting up. To ensure an accurate estimate and that you're getting exactly what you want, we schedule an appointment to visit your home.

During this appointment, we'll look at your current unit and take measurements. From there, we'll ask you about your wants and needs, then give you all of the information about our equipment, warranties, energy efficiency, and thermostat options.

AC Installation Day

Once you've agreed to the estimate, we'll put an installation day in our schedule and take care of the rest. When we show up, we always put drop cloths down to protect your flooring from shoes, dirt, and debris from the installation.

We start by removing your old AC unit by disconnecting ductwork, wiring, drains, and exhaust. Once that's complete, we install the new ductwork and air-seal the connections before hooking up all of the new lines and wiring.

Outside, we'll disconnect and take away the old unit and then place the new one on an equipment pad so that it's away from lawn care equipment and snow. Installing the unit involves replacing the electrical disconnect and the high-voltage wire.

The last thing is adding refrigerant to the service valves and testing the equipment to ensure it's all up to spec. Even after the new unit is installed, it's crucial to get regular AC maintenance to keep it working at a high level.

Contact LCS for Your Heating and Cooling Needs

Now that you know a bit more about the AC installation process, it's time to book your estimate with LCS Heating & Cooling. With prompt service and clear communication, we'll take the anxiety out of AC installation and maintenance. Contact us today.

by HVAC Expert

When is the Best Time to Service My AC in Carmel, IN?

Dealing with hot weather is problematic, especially with temperatures rising around the world. Air conditioning is a blessing that lets you stay cool all year long. As such, it's important to keep it running well so it doesn't die on you at the worst time.

You may ask yourself, "When do I need to service my AC in Carmel?" Should you wait until there's a problem, or does regular maintenance really make a difference?

Here's what you need to know about how to deal with a broken air conditioner.

When Do I Need to Service My AC?

First of all, you should always keep regular maintenance in mind. It's important to service your AC unit at least once a year. You may need to do it twice if it's run often for long periods of time.

Other than that, there are some signs to keep an eye out for that a problem may be developing with your system.

Your AC is Blowing Warm Air

If your air conditioning system blows out warm air when you have it set to cool, then that's a problem. You'll first want to check your thermostat to see if there's a problem.

Vents that continue to blow warm air may show that there's a problem with your compressor.

Frequent Cycles

Another problem you may run into is your system turning on and off repeatedly in a short period of time. If this happens, then there could be a problem with your AC thermostat or a clogged air filter.

In a worst-case scenario, you may need to purchase a new system.

Water Leakage

Something you may encounter is water leakage or damage caused by your AC system's condensation. While this may not be a sign of a broken air conditioner, it could point to a drainage issue.

Ideally, this excess liquid caused by cooling your home should run out of your house and not into your ceiling.

Bad Odors

If your home doesn't smell bad, then the air coming out of your vents shouldn't smell bad.

An AC technician can let you know if this particular problem is caused by your air filter or cooling system.

Poor Airflow

The vents in your home should provide consistent airflow throughout the building. Failure to do so could mean that there's a blockage or leak somewhere in your ductwork.

It's also possible that your AC fan is starting to fail and needs a replacement.

Call For AC Help ASAP

The worst thing you can do is continue to let your air conditioner run while it's having issues. It'll only waste your energy and could potentially cause the problem to get worse. Instead of asking yourself when to service your AC, ask a professional to take a look.

LCS Heating & Cooling offers services such as AC and furnace repair, duct cleaning, home insulation, and more. We also have maintenance plans to help you save money.

Contact us to learn more and to tell us about your current AC concerns in the Indianapolis area.

by HVAC Expert

How Fisher, IN Homeowners Can Tell the Difference Between Normal HVAC Noises vs Warning Signs

Did you know that HVAC systems are responsible for over half of the energy consumption in the average American home? That's a lot of work for one system to handle, and with all that work comes some noise. But how do you know when those HVAC noises are normal and when they're a sign of a bigger problem? 

Don't worry, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll help you differentiate between normal HVAC noises and warning signs that your system may need repair near you.

Normal HVAC Noises

Your HVAC system is designed to make some noise as it operates. Here are some normal HVAC noises you may hear:

Humming

You may hear a low humming sound coming from your air conditioning unit or furnace. This is usually the sound of the fan motor running and is nothing to worry about.

Clicking

When your system turns on and off, you may hear a clicking sound. This is the sound of the thermostat relays activating and is also normal.

Airflow

When your system is running, you'll hear the sound of air moving through the ducts. This is normal and varies depending on the size of your system and the design of your ductwork.

Unusual HVAC Noises

If you hear any of these unusual HVAC noises, it's important to have your system inspected by a professional:

• A banging or clanging sound coming from your furnace may indicate a problem with the blower wheel, motor, or belt
• If you hear a rattling sound, it could be due to loose ductwork or a loose component inside your system
• A screeching sound may be a sign that the blower motor or fan belt is failing
• A hissing sound could indicate a refrigerant leak or a problem with your ductwork
• If you hear a high-pitched squealing sound, it could be due to a problem with the blower motor or fan belt

What To Do If You Hear Unusual HVAC Noises

If you hear any of these unusual HVAC noises, it's important to take action:

Turn Off Your System

If you hear any unusual noises, turn off your HVAC system immediately. This will prevent further damage to your system and keep you safe.

Call For Professional Help

Contact a professional HVAC technician in Fisher, IN for AC or furnace repair. They will be able to diagnose the problem and provide you with a free furnace estimate or AC repair free estimate.

Don't Attempt DIY Repairs

HVAC systems are complex and dangerous. Don't attempt to repair your system yourself, as this can result in injury or further damage to your system.

Don't Let HVAC Noises Keep You Up At Night

Being able to differentiate between normal HVAC noises and warning signs can save you time, money, and stress. Remember, regular maintenance and cleaning of your HVAC system can prevent many of the problems that cause those unwanted HVAC noises. 

If you do suspect that your system needs repair, don't wait until it's too late. Don’t hesitate to contact us at Lasting Comfort Solutions Heating & Cooling with any questions or for help with your HVAC issues.

by HVAC Expert

3 Ways To Keep Your Dryer Vent in Good Condition in Carmel, IN

Were you aware that the invention of the automatic clothes dryer dates all the way back to 1892?

Since then, the modern clothes dryer has improved by leaps and bounds. However, it's still important to stay on top of maintenance. If you don't, then you could end up reducing the lifespan of your appliance.

Are you unsure how to maintain the dryer? Keep reading to learn all about three ways you can keep your dryer vent in good condition in Carmel, IN.

1. Keep the Lint Screen Clean

If you want your appliance to last a long time, then you can't forget to clean the lint screen. This often fills up with fluffy lint faster than one might realize. This is why it's a good idea to check it after every few drying sessions.

Over time, a clogged screen will cause the appliance to dry clothes in a less effective way. Plus, keeping the lint screen clean can also prevent a faster build-up of lint in the main dryer vent.

2. Hire a Professional to Clear Out the Dryer Duct

Even after cleaning the lint screen on a regular basis, there will eventually be a build-up of dust and debris within your dryer vent. To ensure a thorough job, it's a good idea to call in a professional. A business has access to industrial tools that can ensure the vent ends up being as clean as the first day you got it.

Plus, they can maneuver in your laundry room and properly disconnect the appliance from the vent. The last thing you'd want to do is overexert yourself and hurt your back, for instance. You could also damage the dryer if you don't disconnect it the right way.

3. Make Sure the Connection Is Secure

A loose connection is a sure way of reducing the efficiency of your dryer. You should double-check the connection of the hose to the vent and to the appliance itself.

After investing in a thorough cleaning, the professionals can make sure that the hose is secure at both points when setting everything back up. If you notice any major wear and tear on the hose, then it may be time to replace it with a new one. This can go a long way toward ensuring your dryer vent, and general appliance remains in tip-top shape.

Are You Ready to Maintain Your Dryer Vent?

Now that you've learned three ways you can keep your dryer vent in good condition, you can rest easy knowing that your clothes can always be dried as effectively as possible. That way, you don't have to worry about fire hazards or any other related issues.

LCS Heating & Cooling is proud to serve the Indianapolis area, including Fishers and Carmel. Not only can we keep your dry vent clean, but we also offer other essential solutions. From maintaining indoor air quality to installing furnaces, you can always rely on us.

Be sure to schedule your dryer vent cleaning.

by HVAC Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Furnace in Indianapolis, IN?

Staying warm during the winter is a challenge for all of us, and you can't always rely on electricity. That's why gas and oil furnaces are the most common heating system in homes across the US, along with boilers.

Still, homeowners need to maintain their furnaces to avoid costly services. However, when the time comes, it's best to know the typical furnace repair cost. Let's talk about that!

Common Problems With Furnaces

If you bring your car to a mechanic for an oil change, you'll expect to pay less than you would for a new engine, right? The same logic applies to your furnace.

Typically, a furnace repair company will charge a flat rate just for coming to your home. This could be anywhere from $50 to $200 depending on the company and where you live. From there, the services you need will determine the remaining costs. 

Some of the most common issues with furnaces include:

• Dirty or clogged ducts
• Old or dirty filters
• Faulty pilot
• Broken thermostat
• Blown blowers
• Heat exchange malfunction
• Tripped circuit breaker or an electrical issue
• Lack of maintenance

Believe it or not, many of these problems are more common on newer furnaces. As they say, "They don't build 'em like they used to."

Older furnaces (15 years or older) tend to need replacing once you run into serious problems. You'll have to talk to your repair company and ask if it makes more sense to repair or replace your furnace.

Average Furnace Repair Cost

Again, it widely depends on the services you need. However, if you need something simple like cleaning a duct, replacing a filter, or flipping a switch on your circuit breaker, then don't worry about it. At most, you'll spend $200 for the basics.

Conversely, you may spend $450 to $2000 to replace key components in your furnace, depending on where you go. A broken pilot could be anywhere from $75 to $300.

Moreover, replacing a furnace costs an average of $4500. Therefore, repairing and maintaining your furnace is well worth the price.

Fortunately, it's a lot cheaper to maintain your system in Indiana. You can save a lot of money by simply keeping up with routine maintenance. Cleaning or replacing your filters regularly will go a long way toward preventing major repairs.

We recommend cleaning your filters at least twice a year (preferably monthly during winter) for the best results, and scheduling an annual checkup with a furnace professional! Check out our annual maintenance plans to see how much you can save!

Stay Warm This Winter

Now that you know the average furnace repair cost in Indianapolis, you can make an informed decision on what's right for you. Overall, prevention is key, as it can save you thousands of dollars on major repair or replacement services. Either way, make sure you get your furnace running and stay warm this winter!

Stay up to date with our latest tips for homeowners, and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or for help with your furnace!

by HVAC Expert

HVAC Repair: 3 Reasons to Check Your Indoor Air Quality in Carmel, IN

An estimated 40% of Americans live in places with poor air quality. That's about 137 million people at risk of the dangers of polluted air! Polluted outdoor air can also enter homes and affect indoor air quality (IAQ). Indoor air can sometimes even contain more pollutants than outdoor air. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, in turn, is a factor in your home's IAQ. To that end, we created this HVAC repair guide discussing why you should check the IAQ in your Carmel, IN, home.

We'll also tell you about your HVAC system's roles in your IAQ, so read on.

1. Carmel Has Severe Air Pollution

The Indianapolis-Carmel-Muncie metropolitan area has one of the worst year-round particle pollution problems. It's the 13th most particle-polluted place in the 2022 State of the Air Report.

Also called particulate matter (PM), particle pollutants are tiny solid and liquid droplets. Some examples are acids, inorganic compounds, dust, mold, soot, and smoke. Air can carry them from the outdoors into your home through doors, windows, and air leaks.

PM can cause lung diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It can also contribute to heart disease.

Some types of PM are too tiny to be visible; you're more likely to feel their effects rather than see them. Don't wait for that to happen; hire one of the most reliable Carmel heating and AC companies to test your IAQ.

2. Poor IAQ May Indicate Need for HVAC Repair

The poor IAQ in your home in Carmel, IN, may indicate you have a leaky or disconnected duct system.

For example, bacteria, viruses, molds, dust, and other pollutants can penetrate duct leaks. Cleaning the air ducts can help, but the priority should be to fix the leakages. Otherwise, new pollutants will keep entering them.

Leaking HVAC ducts can also create negative pressure that contributes to back-drafting. This problem can cause combustion gases from a gas furnace or water heater to re-enter your home. It's dangerous as combustion gases include carbon monoxide (CO), a deadly gas.

If you suspect your poor IAQ is a sign of HVAC and duct system issues, please call an AC or furnace repair expert ASAP. Have them test your IAQ, check your system, and perform needed HVAC repairs.

3. HVAC Problems Contribute to Poor IAQ

An air conditioner leaking water can increase the humidity in your home in Carmel, IN. That can promote mold growth, which can lower your IAQ. It's even more dangerous if your AC leaks refrigerant, as this substance is toxic at high doses.

A gas furnace with a cracked heat exchanger can also contribute to poor IAQ. That damage can cause gases like CO to leak into your home and contaminate your indoor air.

Another way your furnace can pollute indoor air is through a leaky gas line. If allowed to build up indoors at high levels, natural gas can cause asphyxiation.

So now that it's fall season and winter is just around the corner, it's best to schedule a heating tune-up and an IAQ test. That way, you can ensure your heater isn't exposing your family to polluted air.

Time to Enjoy Cleaner Air

As you can see, checking your IAQ can help confirm you're breathing clean air. It even reveals potential problems requiring HVAC repair. You can then have these issues fixed promptly to help improve your IAQ.

Are you ready to test and improve the indoor air in your home in Carmel, Indiana? If so, we here at LCS Heating and Cooling are happy to assist! Contact us now for all your IAQ and heating and cooling maintenance needs!

by HVAC Expert

What to Do if Your AC Is Leaking Water: A Guide for Carmel, IN Homeowners

Plop! Your footsteps into a puddle of water on the floor of your home. You immediately realize your AC in Carmel is leaking water, but you don't know why.

There are various reasons that this could be happening, some with simple fixes and others more complicated. To help you understand the root of the problem, we cover some of the common causes of a leaky AC.

Keep reading to learn them.

Clogged Condensation Line

One of the reasons your AC is leaking water could be a clogged condensation line. The role of the condensation line is to drain condensed water so that it doesn't end up on the floor of your home.

The line can become clogged by mildew or algae. Every three months, you can pour 1/3 cup of vinegar down the condensation line to prevent this problem.

The AC can shut off if this line is backed up. You may also see water overflowing in the drain pan. If you've tried the vinegar method, and it doesn't work, hire professionals to inspect your AC.

Dirty Air Filter

AC companies will tell you that a dirty air filter can cause a lot of problems, including leaks. An air filter should be changed out at least every three months. You might need to change it more if you have animals causing pet dander.

When the air filter gets clogged, air cannot move through the air handler. This causes your coils to get cold and freeze. The frozen water can begin to leak.

If you aren't changing your air filter out regularly, you may experience a plethora of different AC problems and poor indoor air quality.

Low Freon/Refrigerant

Air conditioner leaking can occur if your AC is low on freon or refrigerant. If you haven't had your air conditioner serviced in a while, you likely have low freon levels.

Low freon levels cause low pressure inside the coils which can lead to freezing.

You can opt for an AC repair-free estimate to discover if this is the root cause of your issue. If it is, an AC technician can install freon as an easy fix!

Damaged or Missing Drain Pan

An AC pan leaking stems from damages more often than not. A drain pan is the component of your system that catches falling water before safely draining it out of your home. The drain pan can become worn out and rusted.

In some cases, the drain pan is missing from your system. If this happens, have a drain pain installed and connected to the condensation line. Search for "AC repair near me" to find a professional that can help with this task.

There are some areas where a float switch is required that will go off when your drain pain is filled with water. If you want to be safe, ask a technician to install this as well.

AC Is Leaking Water: Call a Technician!

If you live in Carmel, IN, there are various AC technicians you can call for emergency problems. To keep out the heat and ensure your system is working properly, you need to know what to do when your AC is leaking water.

Although there are some simple solutions to this problem, others require the help of a professional. Contact us today if you aren't sure, and for all of your cooling needs.

by HVAC Expert

5 Things to Know About Heating and Cooling Maintenance in Fishers, IN

Did you know that with regular heating and cooling maintenance you can avoid costly and ill-timed surprises from your HVAC system? In fact, according to statistics, regular professional HVAC maintenance could help your heating and cooling system last up to 40% longer.

Summer is nearly upon us, bringing its long days of sunshine and with it the muggy Indiana heat. The last thing you want when the hot days arrive is an unpleasant surprise from your air conditioning unit.

Keep reading to learn the 5 things you need to know about ac and heating tune-up this summer!

1. Heating and Cooling Maintenance will Save You Money

We know all too well that when temperatures rise, so do the electricity bills. But you can save money by keeping your air conditioner well maintained. The U.S. Department of Energy states that a properly maintained HVAC system can save you upwards of 30% on your electricity bills.

The other way that regular HVAC maintenance saves you money is by preventing major damage to your system. When major components break due to neglect they can be very expensive to repair, so make sure that your system is being regularly inspected. 

Having your heating and cooling maintenance is done twice a year before peak seasons for air conditioning and heating will ensure that your system is always running at its best.

2. HVAC Maintenance is Good for the Environment

A great bonus of maintaining an ac unit and keeping it running its best is that it's better for the environment. Keeping pollution levels down is good for everyone. So, it's nice to know that while using less energy is good for your wallet, it's also good for the planet!

3. Changing Your Filter is Important

Remembering to stay on top of changing your HVAC filters can be a pain, but it's more important than you might realize. Dirty filters not only keep your heat and air from running at its peak, if they are dirty enough they can damage internal components.

During summer when you are using your ac often, you should change your filters regularly. Check your manual or ask your HVAC service technician how often you should be changing them.

4. Dirty Ductwork Means Dirty Air

Indiana is no stranger to potential allergens like pollen and mold. Spring pollen and mold spores which thrive in humidity can make their way into your HVAC system and make the air inside your house less than healthy to breathe. Household pollution like smoke, dust mites, and pet dander can also make their way into your system if things aren't properly maintained.

Keeping your HVAC system well maintained includes your ductwork, when ductwork is neglected it can affect your indoor air quality. Having your HVAC ductwork inspected and cleaned regularly will help keep your indoor air clean and safe to breathe.

5. Pay Attention to Strange Noises

Often your heating and air unit will tell you when it's having trouble. Make sure to pay attention if you notice any increase in noise levels or if you hear your unit making strange sounds.

If you do hear anything suspicious call and have your system checked out. Catching issues early will ensure that you stay cool all summer long.

Where can I Find Heating and Cooling Maintenance Near Me?

We hope that you enjoyed reading about why ac maintenance is so important. Heating and cooling maintenance will not only keep your home more comfortable this summer, but it will also save you money!

Are you ready to get your HVAC system tuned up for summer in Indiana? Contact us today!

by HVAC Expert