heating maintenance

Preparing Your HVAC System for the Fall: Maintenance Tips For Carmel, IN Homeowners

Preventative maintenance for your Carmel, IN HVAC unit could push its lifespan to over 15 years! Without maintenance, you may need to purchase a new unit sooner than expected. It's important to complete annual heating maintenance before cold weather rolls in.

With these HVAC tips, you can prepare your system for fall in Carmel!

Extend the lifespan of your unit with these maintenance tips.

Replace Air Filters

Replacing your HVAC's air filters will allow you to maintain proper airflow throughout your home. When a filter is clogged, the unit will work twice as hard to push air through it. The unit's energy efficiency will decline.

It might even break down as components experience wear and tear. 

Plan to replace your air filter every three months (or more often if you have pets). If the filter is covered with dust and debris, toss it out. 

Talk to your local HVAC contractor about filters with a higher MERV rating. These filters can capture the smallest particles, protecting your home's air quality. Better air quality can help you avoid indoor allergens like tree pollen, mold spores, and dust mites.

Clean the Unit

Step outside and clean your outdoor condenser unit before it gets chilly. Keeping your unit clean and free of debris will ensure better airflow. Otherwise, heat exchange efficiency will decline.

Check the condenser coil. If it's caked with debris and dust, it's time to clean it!

Seal Drafts

Heat loss through doors and windows accounts for 25 to 30% of residential heating/cooling energy use. Update your home's energy efficiency by sealing drafts. You can improve the efficiency of your current windows by:

  • Caulking and weather-stripping
  • Checking for air leaks
  • Adding energy efficiency coverings
  • Adding storm windows/panels

Drafts can cause your HVAC system to make up for lost hot air. Sealing drafts will help your home retain warm air during cooler months. If your doors and windows are old, you may want to consider replacing them. 

Check Thermostat

For maximum efficiency, set your thermostat to 68ºF when your family is home. For more energy savings, set it back 7 to 10 degrees when you're out for the day. This setback could reduce HVAC energy consumption by as much as 10%.

Otherwise, invest in a smart thermostat. You can program your home to save electricity when you're out for the day. Talk to your HVAC contractor for recommendations. 

Schedule Maintenance

The best way to improve your home's energy efficiency during the fall in Carmel is to call your local HVAC company. They can assess your unit to check for:

  • Wear and tear
  • Cleanliness
  • Airflow
  • Electrical connection issues
  • Thermostat reliability

A professional HVAC contractor's assessment can extend the unit's lifespan. Certified HVAC maintenance can help you maintain the unit's warranty. 

Use These Carmel, IN Heating Maintenance Tips

Don't neglect your HVAC maintenance this fall. Instead, use these heating maintenance tips to improve the unit's energy efficiency. Remember, you don't have to complete these maintenance tasks alone. 

The team at LCS Heating and Cooling can help with your HVAC maintenance. We're dedicated to offering solutions to ensure your comfort.

Contact us today to schedule heating and cooling services. 


HVAC system

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.


indoor air quality

Will Replacing Air Filters Improve Indoor Air Quality in Carmel, IN?

Were you aware that millions of people live in areas with highly polluted air? This can cause all kinds of serious health issues, such as lung diseases and asthma attacks.

Are you concerned about the quality of the air inside your home? You might be skeptical about whether replacing air filters can make a difference.

In Carmel, IN, improving indoor air quality is possible by changing air filters. Keep reading to learn all about air filters and how they affect air quality inside your home.

Air Filters Make a Huge Difference

Maintaining pristine indoor air quality is vital for you and your loved ones' well-being. Breathing clean air contributes to both your general health and comfort.

The air filters in your HVAC system are a huge factor in this equation. They help trap airborne particles such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and even mold spores. Over time, these filters can get plugged up with pollutants, reducing their efficiency.

Be Diligent About Replacing Your Air Filters

By replacing your filters regularly, you ensure that your HVAC system can effectively filter out pollutants. A clean air filter allows for better airflow, preventing the accumulation of contaminants in your home.

When it comes to home cooling, air filters also play a crucial role. A dirty air filter can obstruct airflow, causing your HVAC system to work overtime and use up more energy.

This can cause your energy bills to hit the roof. It'll also affect the efficiency and lifespan of your HVAC system. By replacing air filters regularly, you can optimize airflow and enhance cooling efficiency.

Frequency of Air Filter Replacement for Healthy Indoor Air Quality

How often you should change your air filters depends on several factors, such as the type of filter, the number of people under your roof, and the presence of pets. Generally, you need to replace standard air filters every few months tops.

However, if you have pets or suffer from allergies, it's a good idea to replace them more often. High-efficiency filters may have longer lifespans but still require periodic monitoring.

Regularly replacing air filters enhances indoor air quality and cooling efficiency and contributes to the lifespan of your HVAC system.

Clean filters prevent dust and debris from accumulating on critical components. This minimizes the risk of wallet-straining breakdowns and repairs.

HVAC Professionals Can Give You Good Indoor Air Quality

Remember, proper maintenance of your HVAC system goes beyond changing air filters. It's essential to schedule regular professional inspections and tune-ups to ensure optimal performance.

A qualified HVAC technician can home in on potential issues. That way, they can provide necessary maintenance and improve indoor air quality.

Now You Can Boost Your Indoor Air Quality

With proper HVAC filters, you can ensure that your indoor air quality is as high as possible.

LCS Heating & Cooling offers lasting comfort solutions in Indiana. We can assess and improve your home's indoor air quality in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and elsewhere.

Contact an LCS team member to schedule an IAQ visit now.


ac installation

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.


service my ac

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.


AC maintenance

The Benefits of a Seasonal AC Maintenance for Indianapolis, IN Home

Are you ready for the arrival of hot summer weather? After all, summer in Indianapolis, IN can get brutal. That’s why it's crucial to have a reliable air conditioning system to keep your home cool and comfortable. Regular AC maintenance and seasonal tune-ups can help ensure that it operates efficiently and effectively when you need it most.

In this article, we'll discuss the benefits of a seasonal AC system tune-up for Indianapolis, IN homeowners. Keep reading to learn more.

Improved Energy Efficiency

One of the primary benefits of a seasonal AC system tune-up is improved energy efficiency. When your AC system is operating at peak efficiency, it requires less energy to cool your home. This is a great way to reduce your monthly energy bill.

During a tune-up in Fishers, IN, your HVAC technician will clean and inspect your AC system. They will also replace air filters, and make any necessary repairs.

These actions can help reduce the workload on your AC system. This translates to better energy efficiency and lower costs.

Extended System Lifespan

Another significant benefit of a seasonal tune-up is an extended lifespan for your AC system. Regular maintenance and tune-ups can help prevent breakdowns and prolong the life of your system.

Over time, wear and tear can take a toll on your AC system, leading to malfunctions and costly repairs. By scheduling a seasonal tune-up, you can help keep your AC system running smoothly for years to come.

Enhanced Indoor Air Quality

A seasonal AC system tune-up can help improve indoor air quality by removing dirt, dust, and other contaminants from your AC system.

During a tune-up, your HVAC company will clean and inspect the evaporator and condenser coils, which can collect dirt and debris over time. A clean AC system can help reduce allergens and pollutants in your home and promote a healthier indoor environment.

Early Detection of Issues

Even the most well-maintained AC system can experience problems from time to time. However, regular maintenance and tune-ups can help detect issues early, before they become more significant problems.

During AC preventative maintenance, your HVAC technician will inspect all components of your AC system, looking for signs of wear and tear, leaks, and other issues. Addressing issues early can help prevent costly repairs or even system replacements down the line.

Peace of Mind

Scheduling a seasonal AC system tune-up in Carmel, IN, can provide peace of mind for homeowners. Knowing that your AC system is in good working order can help reduce stress and anxiety, particularly during the hot summer months.

It can also help you avoid unexpected breakdowns or repairs, which can be costly and inconvenient.

Reasons to Schedule AC Maintenance

Keeping your home comfortable during the heat of summer is important, especially when it comes to the high temperatures of Indiana. That's why you should make annual AC maintenance a top priority.

Please contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our AC specialists at LCS Heating & Cooling in Indianapolis, IN.


HVAC noises

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.


dryer vent

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.


furnace repair cost

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!


furnace repair

3 Things to Know About Furnace Repair in Indianapolis, IN

If you're having problems with the heating in your home, getting furnace repair is essential.

There are over 120,000 HVAC companies in the country. Finding the right one is how you'll ensure your system stays in top working condition. So, how do you find the right furnace repair company?

Learning all you can about furnace repair will give you a head start. In this post, we're going to tell you 3 things to know about furnace repair in Indianapolis. Keep reading and you'll be able to choose the right furnace repair service and keep your HVAC system in good shape for years to come.

1. Regular Maintenance Is Key

If you don't want to spend a fortune on furnace repairs, you need to perform regular preventative maintenance. Having a furnace repair company come in and inspect your furnace top to bottom at least once per year will prevent it from breaking down at inconvenient times.

There are a lot of complicated aspects to a furnace, so your technician will take a look at all of them to detect any problem areas. Everything from the blower assembly to the heat combustion system is integral to the proper functioning of your furnace. 

At LCS, we offer maintenance plans that will make sure your furnace is up to snuff on an annual basis. Check out our website to view the different service plans and choose the one that best suits your needs.

2. Changing Air Filters

Inspecting and changing the air filters in your furnace is something you can do on your own. You should be inspecting them on a regular basis and buying replacement filters every 90 days. This is integral to maintaining good indoor air quality and protecting your furnace in general.

Air filters remove allergens and contaminants from the air. Over time, they fill up and can lead to inefficiencies with your furnace. Not only does that mean you'll be breathing in more toxins, but your furnace has to work harder to heat your home, which can take a toll on it.

3. Repairs Save Money

There's a common misconception that paying for furnace repair costs a lot of money. When you really think about it, however, it's always better to fix something than to let it get to the point of needing a total replacement.

Our repair services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, so there's no excuse not to get your furnace repaired. Depending on the nature of the repairs, you may only have to pay our base service fee of $109. Either way, we'll always provide you with a free quote so you can budget for the repairs.

Get the Best Furnace Repair in Indiana

Now that you understand a bit more about the nature of furnace repair, it's time to get the best Indiana furnace repair. At LCS Heating and Cooling, our team of service technicians and installers are some of the best in the business. You can always rely on us for quick repairs and the best preventative maintenance.

To discuss your furnace repair needs with one of our team members, don't hesitate to contact us ASAP.