Old AC unit next to an LCS Heating and Cooling van scheduled for replacement hvac

Planning for HVAC Replacement

Why is it that your HVAC goes out when you least expect it… and may be least prepared to replace it? We hear the sentiment over and over again: “This is the worst timing!” “I was hoping to get through the summer!”

We hate to see emergency HVAC replacements that put our customers in tight spots. That’s why we always recommend trying to plan ahead for HVAC replacements. Be prepared and not caught off-guard when your system bites the dust!

The Power of Planning

If your HVAC system is more than 9 years old, it’s probably time to start planning for a replacement. A good place to start is by evaluating your current system's efficiency and overall performance. Consider any recurring issues, rising utility bills, or uneven heating/cooling in different areas of your home or building.

With this information, set clear goals for your future HVAC investment. Are you seeking better energy efficiency, improved indoor air quality, or enhanced comfort? Outline your priorities to guide you in making informed decisions.

Once you’ve determined what’s working and what’s not with your current setup, consider giving us a call to find out what options you have for replacement. We can help you consider the system you might want and the costs you’ll want to save toward.

Female HVAC technician exiting vanSaving for the Future

Investing in an HVAC system is a financial commitment that can set you back if you’re not prepared.

Consider creating a dedicated savings account and contribute regularly to it. One tip is to set up an automatic payment into this savings account on payday. Even just $20 a paycheck can help you build toward your savings goals. By saving specifically for this investment, you can minimize the need for loans or putting your purchase on a credit card, ultimately reducing the overall cost.

Additionally, there are also potential financial assistance programs or tax incentives that may be available for energy-efficient HVAC installations.

Seizing the Right Time: Specials and Deals

Once your savings start to grow, keep an eye out for specials and deals. We regularly have promotions, both from our manufacturers and ones that we offer just for our customers. Keep an eye out for promotions during specific times of the year, such as the transition between seasons or during holiday sales events.

Maintenance: A Crucial Component of Your Investment

Investing in your HVAC system doesn't end with its installation. Proper maintenance is key to the longevity, efficiency, and reliability of your system. Regularly scheduled maintenance can prevent costly breakdowns, optimize performance, and extend the life of your system.

Our tip here: Create a maintenance schedule and stick to it. You can do some tasks on your own, like changing air filters, but there are other tasks you’ll want to leave to an expert. Contact us for annual or bi-annual inspections and tune-ups to help your investment really pay off in the long run.

HVAC Replacement in the Indianapolis Area

If you’re ready to begin the process of upgrading your HVAC, contact us to learn more and get a quote for installation!

Remember: a well-maintained HVAC system not only saves you money but has a better chance to live a long life. So, take the time to research and invest wisely in a system that aligns with your needs. With careful planning, saving, and commitment to maintenance, you'll enjoy the rewards of a lasting comfort solution for years to come!


Woman addressing hot and cold spots in her home using a mini-split

How to Address Hot and Cold Spots in Your Home

Your upstairs is hot. Your downstairs is freezing. You can’t find a single spot in your home where you feel comfortable. If this sounds familiar, you may have a problem with hot and cold spots.

 man adjusting thermostat in homeWhy do I have hot and cold spots in my home?

There are several factors that cause hot and cold spots in a house. One of the most common causes is improper ductwork design. Other possible causes include poor insulation and air leaks, which can allow hot or cold air to enter or escape through cracks and gaps in the walls, windows, or doors. Other factors that can contribute to hot and cold spots include problems with the HVAC system and even the position and orientation of your home in relation to the sun.

Do I need to replace my HVAC?

The good news is that you likely don’t have to replace your HVAC system to address hot and cold spots in your home. There are many possible solutions, depending on your home setup, to fix the problem.

What can I do to fix hot and cold spots in my home?

Depending on the specific issue in your home, resolving hot and cold spots can take different forms.

  1. Zone Your Home: What does this mean? Most of the time your home is on a single thermostat in one zone. When we zone your home, we create multiple zones, each with its own thermostat. This allows you to control the temperature independently in each zone or area of your home. Some homes can be zoned, but some cannot. If you’re not sure if zoning would be an option for your home, contact us!
  2. Ductless Mini-Split: A mini-split can be a great solution if you can’t zone your home, or if a smaller area of your house is impacted. This option involves installing a system that’s separate from your traditional furnace and air conditioner. A mini-split has an outdoor unit, along with one or multiple indoor heads. This unit is controlled by its own thermostat, giving you complete control over the temperature in that space. Mini-splits are especially great for large bedrooms, bonus rooms, and sunrooms.Image of a mini-split

Outside of these solutions, there are some additional steps you can take that may not be true fixes but can alleviate the problem a bit by closing the gap from one end of your home to the other or between your upstairs and downstairs temperatures.

  1. Solar-Powered Attic Fan: While it can’t completely resolve hot and cold spot issues, a solar-powered attic fan can help keep your attic cooler, which in turn can keep the floor directly below the attic cooler. There are no long-term costs associated with a solar-powered attic fan since it runs on solar. As an added bonus, removing some of the heat from the attic will extend the life of your roof decking and shingles! Learn more about this solution in our blog post: Are Solar-Powered Attic Fans Worth the Expense?
  2. Thermostat with Sensors: Thermostat sensors can be placed around your house to determine an average home temperature to maintain a more comfortable temperature throughout.

HVAC Solutions in the Indianapolis Area

If you’re not sure what solution will work best for your home, contact us. Our expert technicians can come out, diagnose your issue, and recommend the best possible solution for your home and for your comfort!


employment application

LCS Heating and Cooling, LLC is currently accepting resumes for the position of: HVAC Maintenance Technician. Candidates must have a minimum of 1 year experience troubleshooting, repairing and maintaining HVAC equipment. Candidates must also live in Indianapolis or the immediate surrounding areas.

 

Why LCS?

We are a team. That means we work together to reach goals, we help each other and we encourage each other. We take our work very seriously but we also like to have fun! We believe in what we do, value our skills and care about our customers.  We are growing and can't wait to add to our amazing team!

 

Job Responsibilities/Skills include but are not limited to:

  • Independently follow daily schedule of calls using company software
  • Perform annual maintenance tune-ups on residential and light commercial HVAC equipment. Examples include furnaces, air handlers, heat pumps, air conditioners, RTU’s, mini-splits and humidifiers.
  • Accurately complete customer invoices using company software
  • Accurately complete daily follow-ups with the office using company software
  • Rotate in On-Call Schedule (if applicable)

Other Qualifications:

  • Honesty & Integrity is a must
  • Able to independently manage time
  • Reliable and Prompt
  • Willing to learn. Able to adapt. Not afraid to ask for help!
  • Professional, courteous and pleasant with customers and co-workers
  • Team Player!
  • Must have current driver’s license
  • Must pass drug test & background check
  • Candidates must have own tools

Employee Benefits & Perks:

  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation
  • Take Home Vehicle
  • Service Phone & Tablet
  • Company Uniforms
  • Health Insurance
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Retirement
  • Tool Account
  • Bonus Incentives
  • Company Events & Outings

Please contact us through Facebook for more information or email your resume to gretchen@LCSheatingandcooling.com to apply!

employment application

LCS Heating and Cooling, LLC is currently accepting resumes for the position of: HVAC Service Technician. Candidates must have a minimum of 3 years experience troubleshooting, repairing and maintaining HVAC equipment. Candidates must also live in Indianapolis or the immediate surrounding areas.

 

Why LCS?

We are a team. That means we work together to reach goals, we help each other and we encourage each other. We take our work very seriously but we also like to have fun! We believe in what we do, value our skills and care about our customers.  We are growing and can't wait to add to our amazing team!

 

Job Responsibilities/Skills include but are not limited to:

  • Independently follow daily schedule of calls using company software
  • Accurately troubleshoot & diagnose residential and light commercial HVAC equipment. Examples include furnaces, air handlers, heat pumps, air conditioners, RTU’s, mini-splits and humidifiers.
  • Experience with boilers and geothermal is not required, but would be a plus.
  • Accurately complete customer invoices using company software
  • Accurately complete daily follow-ups with the office using company software
  • Rotate in On-Call Schedule

Other Qualifications:

  • Honesty & Integrity is a must
  • Able to independently manage time
  • Reliable and Prompt
  • Willing to learn. Able to adapt. Not afraid to ask for help!
  • Professional, courteous and pleasant with customers and co-workers
  • Team Player!
  • Must have current driver’s license
  • Must pass drug test and background check
  • Candidates must have own tools

Employee Benefits & Perks:

  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation
  • Take Home Vehicle
  • Service Phone & Tablet
  • Company Uniform
  • Health Insurance
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Retirement
  • Tool Account
  • Bonus Incentives
  • Company Events & Outings

Please contact us through Facebook for more information or email your resume to gretchen@LCSheatingandcooling.com to apply!

employment application

LCS is Hiring! Position: Indianapolis Maintenance Technician

LCS Heating and Cooling, LLC is currently accepting resumes for the position of: HVAC Maintenance Technician. Candidates must have a minimum of 3 years experience troubleshooting, repairing and maintaining HVAC equipment. Candidates must also live in Indianapolis or the immediate surrounding areas.

Why LCS?

Our Passion & Purpose:  We are a team of professionals working together to ensure that we provide lasting comfort solutions to all of our customers, whether they are at home or their place of business.  We strive to build relationships with our customers so that we may have a true understanding of their needs and can use our unique skills to provide honest service. Therefore, people may live comfortably knowing that they received the best possible workmanship at a fair price.

We are a team.  That means we work together to reach goals, we help each other and we encourage each other.  We take our work very seriously but we also like to have fun!  We believe in what we do, value our skills and care about our customers.

Job Responsibilities/Skills include but are not limited to:

  • Independently follow daily schedule of calls using company software
  • Perform annual maintenance tune-ups on residential and light commercial HVAC equipment. Examples include furnaces, air handlers, heat pumps, air conditioners, RTU’s, mini-splits and humidifiers.
  • Properly diagnose and repair residential and light commercial HVAC equipment (as stated above)
  • Accurately complete customer invoices using company software
  • Accurately complete daily follow-ups with the office using company software
  • Rotate in On-Call Schedule

Other Qualifications:

  • Honesty & Integrity is a must
  • Able to independently manage time
  • Reliable and Prompt
  • Willing to learn.  Able to adapt.
  • Professional, courteous and pleasant with customers and co-workers
  • Team Player!
  • Must have current driver’s license
  • Candidates must have own tools

Employee Benefits & Perks

  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation
  • Take Home Vehicle
  • Service Phone & Tablet
  • Health Insurance
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Retirement
  • Tool Account
  • Bonus Incentives
  • Company Events & Outings

Please contact us through Facebook for more information or email your resume to gretchen@LCSheatingandcooling.com to apply!


man and woman standing in front of house with dog

Talk with any industry expert, and they probably know some funny lingo that’s hard for “outsiders” to follow. In the HVAC world, this can be really frustrating—especially when you’re trying to make an informed decision. That’s where LCS Heating & Cooling comes in. We’re all about taking the mystery out of your systems and repairs!

For starters, it’s good to review what HVAC itself even refers to! The acronym is a mash-up of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. Together, these systems are what keep your indoor environment comfy year-round. If you need a refresher on the most common HVAC terms and why the parts matter, just skim through this post. (We promise to keep it simple.)

 

9 HVAC Terms to Know

At LCS, the solutions we design for your home are meant to provide you with “lasting comfort solutions.” Of course, these HVAC solutions will always change from home to home and between families. That’s why it’s important for us to have a variety of offerings that address specific struggles or concerns.

 

1. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Most people think of air pollution as just an outdoor problem, but it can also be a major issue indoors. When we talk about systems for indoor air quality (or IAQ for short), the focus is on filtration. Getting rid of lingering odors is only the beginning. The latest air cleaners also work to remove bacteria and dust mites, so you get honestly fresh air—that isn’t masked by perfumes or other chemicals.

 

2. Heat Pump

These nifty units can help keep your home comfortable through every season! Like air conditioners, these systems are located outside. As the name suggests, a heat pump works to move heat. When it’s hot outside, the heat pump will pull warm air out of your home and push it outside. In the colder months, it helps circulate heat throughout your home by drawing in warm air from outside. (Because even in really cold temperatures, there’s still some amount of heat in air that’s above absolute zero, or -273.15 degrees Celsius!)

 

3. Compressor

The AC (or heat pump) compressor is what circulates your unit’s refrigerant. The refrigerant liquid then absorbs or releases heat to make your home comfortable. Compressors can either work in a single-stage or two-stage cooling setup. Single-stage cooling is the most common, but two-stage comes in handy if you need extra humidity control or a better efficiency rating. Plus, two-stage compressors also aid in noise reduction.

 

4. Evaporator Coil

The evaporator coil is located indoors, inside the furnace. It holds the cold refrigerant in your air conditioner or heat pump. When hot air blows over the evaporator coil, the refrigerant warms up and turns into gas. This helps removes that heat from your indoor air, making your home cooler. Heat pumps also use evaporator coils in the wintertime. But then, the process goes into reverse. Instead of sending heat outdoors, it draws warm air into your home.

 

5. Condenser Coil

Air conditioners and heat pumps use condenser coils to either collect heat or release heat. First, the gaseous refrigerant runs from the evaporator coil to the condenser coil, where it returns to its liquid state. Then, the AC or heat pump fans blow over the condenser coil to either heat or cool your home, depending on what you need.

 

6. Whole-Home Humidifier

During the dry, winter months, whole-home humidifiers can really help boost your home’s cozy factor. By adding a touch of moisture back to your indoor air, humidifiers help create balance. When your air is too dry, it’s easy to get static and dry coughs and cracked skin. These whole-house systems are great because they work with your ductwork to reach every room. And unlike portable units, you don’t have to worry about adding or changing the water—the system knows how to take care of everything for you.

 

7. Whole-Home Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier works in the opposite way of a humidifier. Instead of adding moisture to your air, these units work to remove humidity indoors. It’s a perfect solution for Indiana weather because sometimes the humidity is high even when it's not hot outside! And when the temperature isn’t that high, the air conditioner doesn’t run long enough to remove humidity—only a dehumidifier can. So, whether it’s spring, summer, or fall, having a whole-home dehumidifier is a great way to keep your home from feeling too sticky or too dry. What you’re left with is just crisp, clean air.

 

8. Heat Exchanger

Heat exchangers are found in gas furnaces only. Because that’s where combustion takes place, they basically do the bulk of the work inside your gas furnace. The heat exchanger pulls air into the unit and then transfers heat to warm it up. Once the air is nice and toasty, the blower motor distributes the air throughout your house via the ductwork. Without a functional heat exchanger, your furnace won’t be able to raise the temperature to a comfortable setting during the colder months.

 

9. Whole-Home Zoning

If your upstairs level is way hotter than downstairs, your home might be a good candidate for whole-home zoning. These setups designate specific areas in your home that get heated or cooled independently. That way, your system doesn’t have to struggle to correct the temperature in every room. By setting a limit on where it runs, you only use energy for the places you really need your unit to run.

 

HVAC Repairs for Central Indiana

It’s easier to know what’s going on when you understand the terms and process and “WHY” behind each HVAC decision. At LCS Heating & Cooling, we do everything we can to educate you about the equipment in your business or home. After all, a big part of having lasting comfort solutions is understanding what they are!

Frustrated with a touchy thermostat? Not sure why your unit is making that weird, rattling noise? Our team is here to help. We’ll walk you through the problem and always do our best to make sure you’re informed every step of the way.

For great year-round service, check out our Residential Energy Savings Plan. These regular check-ins will make sure all the major features of your HVAC equipment are running smoothly. Call us at (317) 238-3961 to get scheduled before the frost sets in. We look forward to serving you!

 

3 dogs and 2 cats

There's a common passion among all of us at LCS Heating and Cooling.  Well, in addition to home comfort and the mechanics of HVAC that is! The common passion is animals.  We love dogs, we love cats, one of our techs even has a rabbit! We're just animal people.  It never surprises me to get a random picture throughout the day of a dog or cat.  It's usually a customer's pet that Travis takes a picture of and says- check this little one out! One of our installers even sent a picture of a customer's pet turtle that hung out in the backyard with them while they changed the heat pump.  So, where are we going with this?

We were all talking a few weeks ago about wanting to have some "community projects." We're excited to tell you about our first one!  One of our customers is Freeland Animal Hospital (www.freelandanimalhospital.com). They are located at Pendleton Pike and Sunnyside in Indianapolis. They are fantastic people and care so well for their furry clients!  Each year, they have an Angel Tree in which they accept donations of dog and cat food, treats and supplies. All donations then go to a local rescue.  This year the local rescue is PAWS (http://www.pawshancock.org), located in Greenfield.

Now through the end of the year, LCS Heating and Cooling, LLC has the following "Promotion" going on:

**For each new customer that signs up for Annual Maintenance (our Energy Savings Plan), we will donate a bag of dog or cat treats. Here's the link for more information about our Energy Savings Plan for your HVAC equipment:  https://lcstempsite.dreamhosters.com/esp.html

**For each new furnace install, we will donate a 5lb bag of dog or cat food.

**For each new full system install (furnace & air conditioner), we will donate a 15lb bag of dog or cat food.

Will it be dog or cat food?  The choice is yours!!

We are so excited to help a local rescue that helps so many dogs and cats each year. Who do you know that's thinking about having some HVAC work done?  We greatly appreciate your referrals and personal business.  The animals will too!

 

Is It Too Late for Air Conditioner Maintenance?

What a crazy summer it's been!  Mother Nature has given us a little bit of everything- cooler than average temperatures, rain, heat and humidity!  As we enter the last half of the summer, we are asked the question:  Is it too late to have preventative maintenance completed on my air conditioner?

The short answer is:  No!  It's definitely not too late.

Air conditioners run constantly so it's never too late to give them a good tune-up and cleaning.  Grass clippings, cottonwood, leaves and construction dust can all collect around and in the air conditioner.  If this happens, air will not flow through the air conditioner as it should.  This drops the efficiency of the air conditioner and causes pressures to change.

A tune-up not only checks the operation of different parts but also measures the temperatures and pressures too.  It may be seen that amp draws are a little off or pressures are a little low.  Finding these issues during a tune-up may very well prevent a service call and the inconvenience of being without air conditioning when it's hot out.  A repair may be made at the time of maintenance or the technician can inform you of a potential future repair.

Air conditioner maintenance also includes the drain clean out.  If debris gets into the drain, the drain may back up creating water to fill the drain pan.  Depending on the location of the furnace, you may find water around the furnace area or it will trip a switch causing the system to stop running so the water doesn't overflow.   Again, preventative maintenance can prevent this water problem.

As you can see, preventative maintenance is beneficial at any time that your system is running!

There are also a couple of things you can do on your own throughout the summer as well:

  • Keep grass, plants and weeds trimmed and away from the air conditioner.
  • Turn the air conditioner off at the thermostat and then use a hose to spray it out.
  • Check and change your filter regularly.

Keeping up on regular maintenance will keep your air conditioner running more efficiently than one that's not seen a tune-up in awhile!


My Air Conditioner Won't Work! How Much Will This Cost Me?

A customer recently said to me:  "I really hate spending money on my air conditioner."  I suggested he not replace his air conditioner and just go without.  He said:  "Indiana heat and no air conditioning?  No way!"  I think a lot of people probably feel this same way.  We'd all rather spend our money on fun stuff but sometimes there's just no way around an air conditioner repair.  So what can you expect if you need a repair? Of course, it depends on the problem and the repair needed but we can give you an idea of what to expect.

The service call charge covers the trip to your home (travel time, fuel, etc.), the diagnosis of the problem and the first 30 minutes of labor.  Our regular service call fee is $79.  If you have an annual maintenance plan with us, the service call is less.  If you need service on the weekend, in the evening or on a holiday and do not have an annual maintenance plan, that will cost more.  Either way, if you have a problem that can be fixed without parts and within that time period, this may be your only charge for the repair.

If the repair requires a part, we will give you pricing at that time.  If the part is covered under warranty, you may only have the service call fee plus a little bit of labor.  If the part is no longer covered by a warranty, we would give you pricing at that time.  The cost of the repair is dependent on the part that is bad.  A capacitor for example, costs much less than a motor.  If a repair is $300 or more, we would then waive the initial service call charge.

We are also asked if the air conditioner should be replaced instead of repaired.  Determining factors of this are the age of the system, if it's under warranty and the cost of the repair.  A $200 repair certainly doesn't warrant a new air conditioner!  However, if the air conditioner is older and the repair is costly, it might be worth weighing your options.  Many of parts work independently of each other so replacing one part on the unit doesn't necessarily prevent another part from going bad.

We are always happy to answer questions about repairs and repair costs.  Feel free to contact us anytime!