Is Your Old Air Conditioner Saving Or Costing You Money?

Posted on July 24, 2025July 24, 2025 by Nate Kiser

Is Your Old Air Conditioner Saving Or Costing You Money?

Replacing an air conditioner is a big investment, and one that you shouldn’t have to worry about very often. In lots of cases, a homeowner thinks they are saving money when they decide to put off an air conditioner installation. Is that actually true though?

I’ve been replacing air conditioners and heat pumps around Southwest Virginia for 15 years now, and I’ve seen systems in all sorts of different conditions. In some cases, the system is well-maintained and running efficiently. In lots of other instances, we are going to replace an old HVAC system that doesn’t work well, and runs the energy bills through the roof.

In this article, I’ll discuss the cost-effectiveness of an old cooling system versus a new one. If you want to speak to someone about a new cooling system for your home, whether that be an air conditioner or a heat pump, give Complete Comfort a call at (276) 690-9222, or reach out to us online.

How Your Old AC May Be Costing You Money

If you have an old air conditioner, it may be costing you more money than you realize. Your AC should last anywhere between 10-20 years, depending on how well you take care of it. Once it gets above 10 years, you may start to see some problems with your cooling system.

There are a few obvious ways it may be costing you money, and there are also some more subtle ways you may not realize. Here are a few ways your old AC is costing you more money than it should:

High Energy Bills

If your old HVAC system is inefficient, it could be running your energy bills up higher than it should. You may think you are saving money because you are putting off the cost of a new HVAC system, but in reality, you are simply delaying the inevitable, while paying more in energy costs in the meantime.

Older HVAC systems are less energy efficient than newer ones. Also, over the years, the efficiency of the system has likely decreased, and it costs more now to run than ever before. It may not always be obvious if the costs have slowly risen over time. We recommend inspecting your energy bill, and also comparing it to your energy-efficient neighbors. Most energy companies will allow you to look at a comparison to your old energy costs, as well as your neighbors. If you see that your costs are higher than they should be, it may be costing you hundreds, or even thousands of dollars in the long run.

Repairs Needed

If your AC system is older, it may run into breakdowns and repairs being needed. Some of these are cheap and easy, but others can become costly. If you find that your system has needed more than 1 repair in the past 2 years, you may want to start considering a new HVAC system. If you had a car thaat broke down over and over, you wouldn’t want to keep pouring money into it. The same applies to your HVAC system. Instead of putting a band aid on a failing system replacing it will likely end up saving you money in the long run.

Lower SEER Ratings

If you have an older AC, it could have a lower SEER Rating. This means a lower efficiency rating. As of January 2023, SEER rating requirements were updated, meaning that new AC systems had to be built with more energy-efficient ratings. This also means that older systems are likely less efficient.

New AC systems with better SEER ratings are going to lower your energy bills, and likely improve your home comfort as well.

How Replacing Your AC May Save You Money

When you install a new heat pump or air conditioner, it’s going to improve the comfort of your home, and it’s also likely going to help you save money in the long run.

Energy Savings

With a brand new HVAC system, it’s likely to be far more energy efficient than your old system. With this new energy-efficient unit comes energy savings. You should see your utility bills go down, saving you money over the lifespan of your new system.

No Repairs Needed

With a new HVAC system, fewer repairs are going to be needed. If you used to have an older system, it may break down or require some replacement parts. No longer is this a concern, at least for the first few years. With regular maintenance, you should have a smoothly running AC system for years to come.

The Best Way To Make Your System Run Efficiently

The best way to get the most out of your cooling system is to schedule routine maintenance. This is going to help your system maintain energy efficiency and avoid costly breakdowns and repairs. When you schedule AC service, it comes along with a list of benefits:

Improved energy efficiency
Lower energy bills
Longer system lifespan
Better indoor air quality
Better cooling

We recommend you have your cooling system serviced at least once a year. Call us at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online to schedule your AC service!

Using Rebates and Tax Credits To Save Money

Lots of newer, energy-efficient HVAC systems qualify for rebates or tax credits that will help you save money on your new HVAC installation. These are put in place by government programs, HVAC manufacturers, and utility companies. They are aimed at reducing the initial cost of an HVAC system, and reducing the amount of energy we consume. These rebates and tax credits often aim to make our society greener and more eco-friendly, while also helping residents with their costs and comfort!

Installing A New Cooling System In Southwest Virginia

If you think your old air conditioning system is costing you money after reading this article, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. One of our comfort specialists will be able to inspect your HVAC system, and let you know how it’s running. They can help you either with routine service, or give you a free estimate for a new HVAC system. No matter what your cooling system needs, we have you covered! At Complete Comfort, we care!

AC Tips During A Heat Wave

Posted on June 26, 2025July 9, 2025 by Nate Kiser

AC Tips During A Heat Wave

We have been experiencing some extremely hot days here in Southwest Virginia, and we know your air conditioning system has been working hard. It’s easy to flip on the AC and turn it up, but it’s important to take any additional steps possible to ease the job on your cooling system, and also help improve your home comfort.

We’ve been installing air conditioners and heat pumps in Southwest Virginia since 2011, and we know the heat can become pretty intense during the dog days of summer. Taking some different steps, some on your own, some hiring a professional to help with, can help you save money, and improve the comfort of your home. In this article, we’ll give you some advice about what you can do for your home in a heat wave.

If you are in need of some help with your air conditioning, give Complete Comfort a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. Our cooling experts will come take a look at your home, and help you decide what the best steps are to make your home as comfortable as possible.

DIY Tips To Make Your Home More Comfortable During A Heat Wave

First we’re going to go over some of the things you can do on your own to make your space more comfortable during a heat wave. Some of these are easier than others, but all can be accomplished on your own, and maybe with a little help from a YouTube Video or two.

Change Your Air Filter

The air filter in your home catches all the dust, dirt, and airborne particles that are flowing through your ductwork and HVAC system. If it goes for months without being changed, it can become clogged and start to block the airflow. This prevents your cooling system from working efficiently, and can cause cooling problems.

It’s also going to cause your air conditioning system to work harder to try and achieve the temperature set on the thermostat. If the air is being partially blocked, the system will just run harder and longer, causing your energy bills to rise further than they should.

You can easily change your air filter on your own, and we recommend that you do it every 1-3 months. In the case of a heat wave, replacing the air filter gives you a fresh filter, cleaner air, and better airflow during the time when you need to cool air the most.

If you aren’t sure how to change your air filter, there are videos online that can help, or you can simply ask your service technician to show you how during routine maintenance.

Use Your Blinds To Block Out The Sun

When the sun shines through the windows of your home, it’s going to raise the temperature by a few degrees. The sunlight brings natural heat, and will cause your AC to have to work harder to cool off the space.

We recommend closing the blinds in rooms that you aren’t using. Bedrooms, dining rooms, even living rooms that aren’t being used during the sunny times of the day should have the blinds drawn. This is going to help lower your energy bills slightly, cool your home off, and reduce the workload on your air conditioner.

Don’t Use Heat Producing Appliances During The Day

Try to refrain from using appliances that generate heat like your oven, dishwasher, laundry dryer, etc. during the hottest times of the day. Maybe use the grill outside to cook dinner, or try waiting until the sun goes down to do your laundry. These are minor things, but they can make a difference in the comfort of your home.

Seal Cracks On Windows And Doors

If you have windows and doors that leak air, it’s going to make your space hotter. It’s also going to cause your AC to run harder, and drive up your energy bills. If you are handy, use some sealant to fill in the cracks around your windows. You may also want to buy some weatherstripping and block the space under your door that lets in air.

This could also be something you hire a professional to take care of, but if you are handy you can perform this task on your own. You may want to hire a company to perform a home energy audit to see where your home can improve on using energy efficiently.

Using Fans

Using fans is simple, but something people ignore in lue of turning up the AC. Using a ceiling fan, or a regular portable fan can help disperse cool air and bring the temperature down in your space. You can also add a bowl of ice to the back of your fan and blow cooler air even!

Home Tips During A Heat Wave (Hiring A Professional)

Now that you have a few tasks you can perform on your own, here are some things you may want to hire a professional to help with when dealing with a heat wave.

Perform Annual Air Conditioner Service

Annual AC service is one of the most important steps you can take to keep your home cool and save money in the long run. We recommend you have your air conditioner serviced at least once a year, and having it done before a heat wave would be ideal.

During regular air conditioner maintenance, a technician will inspect the system, make sure everything is working properly, change your filter, and clean and lubricate any components that need it. Just like taking your car for an oil change helps it last longer and work better, the same goes for an air conditioner or heat pump service.

AC service comes with a list of benefits:

Improved cooling
Longer system lifespan
Lower energy bills
Improved indoor air quality
Maintains warranty
Less chance of breakdowns/repairs needed

Look into our preventative maintenance packages to get the best value when it comes to HVAC Service. If you want to schedule service for your HVAC system, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us right here online to get your cooling system ready for the heat!

Installing New Insulation

When people think of insulation, they usually think about keeping things warm. The truth is, insulation matters in the summer too, and helps keep your home cool. Insulation helps prevent air from the outside from getting into your home, as well as preventing air from your home leaking out. A well insulated home requires less energy to keep comfortable, and is less affected by the outside weather conditions.

If you are REALLY handy, you may be able to install new insulation on your own, but if you are like most of us, it probably makes more sense to hire a professional insulation expert. They can evaluate your home, and know how to insulate your home without making a huge mess.

Installing New Windows And Doors

Installing new windows and doors can be expensive, and a heat wave certainly shouldn’t be the only reason to do this, but if you live in a home with very thin windows, or old construction, it could be something to consider. Windows and doors are some of the most likely spaces for air to leak in your home. If you have leaks all over the house, it’s going to end up costing you a ton in energy bills.

Sealing the house up tight by installing energy efficient windows and doors is an investment in your home. It’s going to help you in the summer, but also in the winter as well. This is usually a costly project, but one that increases the value of your home, lowers your energy costs, and also makes the space more comfortable!

Air Conditioning Services In Southwest Virginia

If you are looking for some help with your air conditioning system and are located in Southwest Virginia, Complete Comfort is here to help. We are located in Chilhowie, but service all of the surrounding areas like Bristol. Glade Spring, Abingdon, and even parts of Tennessee. Give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online to schedule an AC or heat pump appointment today!

Installing A Generator In A Marion, VA Ranch Home

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Nate Kiser

Installing A Generator In A Marion, VA Ranch Home

In Marion and other parts of our service area, we’re no strangers to power outages, especially after big storms. The problem faced by many people these days is that we rely more and more on electricity- not just for convenience, lighting, refrigeration, and more, but often for medical reasons as well. For example, a close friend recently was found to have severe sleep apnea that was causing heart irregularities, so relying on a CPAP machine every night was critical to avoid more serious heart problems and avoid having a stroke.

But what happens, if, in the middle of the night, the power goes out? That CPAP machine won’t work, and it will either keep the person up at night until the power is restored, or worse, it could cause them to slip into “Afib” and make them have to go to the hospital- and no one wants that.

The homeowners of this ranch home in Marion had a similar situation, with a member of the family needing to rely on an electric powered medical device. That meant that the power outages we have around here are no longer just a pain, but it could actually be life threatening, so they gave us a call here at Complete Comfort after getting recommendations from friends, about getting a Generac Home Generator.

Problem: Homeowners in this Marion VA ranch wanted a generator to make sure medical equipment worked, even when there is a power outage.

Solution: Generac home generator will make sure the homeowners have power even when it’s out for the whole neighborhood, automatically, day or night.

Why Get A Generator?

Generac home generators are designed to use propane or natural gas to generate electricity for your home when your main power goes out. Unlike portable generators, these systems kick on automatically when they detect a power outage, and often times you won’t even notice when the generator kicks on.

Portable generators often run on gasoline and require priming, setup and someone to keep an eye on them to refuel when they are operating. Portable generators are often loud, and have to be set up outdoors, being careful not to let the toxic fumes from diesel or other fuel into your home. Most portable generators are also limited in the amount of electricity they can generate for your home, and you have to choose very carefully what systems you want to keep running. (Most people choose their Fridge and freezer, since losing all your food gets to be really expensive).

Choosing A Generac Generator

The Generac Generator is designed to kick on automatically, meaning you won’t miss a beat when the power goes down- the system kicks on, and it can even send a message to your smart phone about when it kicks on, if you aren’t home.

Generac generators come in various sizes, and they can be configured to ensure you have power to key aspects of your home during a power outage. Many people choose to put their refrigerator, freezers, and HVAC systems on the generator, and many also choose a system that can ensure water pumps and other key home outlets or systems can keep running. For this home, we knew we needed a system that was big enough to power those key home systems and ensure the key outlet for the medical equipment was also powered continuously.

The expert team here at Complete Comfort were able to install the new generator in a day, and now the homeowners will never have to worry about a power outage ever again. That means being able to sleep peacefully all night, even when there’s a storm- never having to worry that the medical devices won’t work if the power goes out. This also means they will no longer worry about food going bad either, so even in an extended power outage, the homeowners can keep business as usual, while the neighbors are forced to try to save, and then replace- whatever they can.

If you’re tired of dealing with power outages from an increasingly fragile power grid, and want to make sure your family isn’t at risk in event of a storm, give us a call here at Complete Comfort. We’ll be happy to discuss options with you and find the perfect sized generator for your needs, to make sure the next storm doesn’t leave you in the lurch.

Trane Heat Pump Installation In Glade Spring, VA

Posted on March 3, 2025 by Nate Kiser

Trane Heat Pump Installation In Glade Spring, VA

At Complete Comfort, many of our team have lived in this community for our whole lives. That means we’re friends and neighbors, and take the responsibility that goes with that seriously. So when one of the owner’s former teachers called and became a customer, we were pretty excited! After all, no one is perfect in school, and if your teacher trusts you with their home and HVAC system, it’s like bringing home a gold star on your report card all over again.

The homeowner has a ranch home in Glade Spring, and we had been providing maintenance on her HVAC system regularly. The old system was starting to show its age, and the homeowner was also noticing higher energy bills- often a sign that the system is starting to cycle frequently and having a harder time keeping up with the demands. We started to discuss the possibility of replacement, and what that would involve.

Problem: Old HVAC system in this ranch home in Glade Spring wasn’t performing well and was expensive to run.

Solution: A new Trane XV variable speed heat pump system will help ensure the whole home is comfortable, Winter and Summer, while spending less on energy!

Planned Heat Pump Replacement

Most people take their HVAC system for granted until it doesn’t operate. It sits there quietly doing its job, day in and day out, until something goes wrong, and then it can be a real problem. And just like people, systems tend to develop problems when they are under stress- when we have a patch of really hot or really cold weather- this can send aging systems into overdrive and they can break down.

Many people end up replacing their HVAC system during an emergency- when the system has completely failed, often during extreme weather- and this is stressful for the homeowner and for your HVAC services provider. During extreme events, lots of systems struggle, and our team ends up working overtime, which adds costs. In addition, that also means that getting a new system quickly depends on what’s available, and you may have fewer choices, or end up spending more than you might want to.

Here at Complete Comfort, we work with our customers to try to replace systems ahead of total failure, that way you have a wider choice of system available, and you won’t have to pay a premium for after-hours or overtime services. Because we were already helping these homeowners maintain their system, we were able to make a plan to get them the best system for their home and replace it before they were left sweating it out- literally- on the hottest day of the summer.

Why Did They Choose A Heat Pump?

Our team recommended a Trave XV variable speed heat pump system for the home. Heat pumps are a great choice in Glade Springs, because they will use the heat present in the surrounding air to help heat your home, and the system has a high SEER rating. With a variable speed motor, the system only uses the energy it needs to to keep your home perfectly comfortable, Winter or summer, kind of like a cruise control setting on your car. That high efficiency means you’ll pay less every month on your energy bills, and these systems even qualify for energy-efficient rebates from the electric company.

Reviews online rave about how quiet the system is, and that it delivers great comfort, even on the coldest days, and we knew from experience this system and its outstanding warranty would give our Homeowner the reliable comfort they wanted for many years to come.

We also added the Trane ComfortLink II thermostat, which can automatically configure and calibrate your system for optimum performance. The thermostat can be controlled from your phone or computer, allowing you to adjust the temperature at home even when you are away- no more wondering whether you forgot to adjust the thermostat while you’re at the airport ever again!

A Comfortable Home In Glade Spring, VA

We were thrilled to be able to help the homeowner get a new system and to be able to replace it with a new system that will not only deliver better comfort, but will cost less to operate every month of the year. And by planning ahead, we were also able to save them money, which every homeowner appreciates. But best of all, we love being able to help our friends and neighbors stay comfortable in their homes.

If you have an HVAC system that’s struggling or notice your energy bills increasing month over month for no apparent reason, give us a call here at Complete Comfort and we’ll help you decide when the right time to replace or upgrade your system might be, and make a plan to do so when it saves you money and stress- that will keep your pocketbook and budget happy!

Generac Generator Installation In Abingdon, VA

Posted on February 10, 2025 by Nate Kiser

Generac Generator Installation In Abingdon, VA

The family in Abingdon VA who live in this lovely, split-level home lost power for 5 days during Hurricane Helene and the historic flooding that occurred in the area. Their generator wasn’t working properly and they called us here at Complete Comfort to see what we could do.

Problem: Generac generator wasn’t working properly- the family lost power for 5 days and didn’t want to have that happen again

Solution: Replace and upgrade generator, to keep the family in power no matter what Mother Nature dishes out.

Extended Power Outages have Big Impacts

Many more homeowners are experiencing extended power outages more than in the past, largely due to more frequent severe weather events coupled by an aging electric grid that seems to break more frequently than ever.

When your power is out for an extended period of time, it’s become more than an inconvenience. Loss of electricity means loss of refrigeration, often meaning a significant loss of food stored in the fridge and freezer, no AC or heat in your home, and of course, it can take out hot water, the ability to do laundry, cooking, and for many people, it impacts their ability to work from home as well.

While a short time without electricity can be charming, as you dine by candlelight, anything more than a few hours becomes expensive and uncomfortable quickly.

When the homeowners in Abingdon lost power for 5 days, it meant replacing all the food in the home that cost them several hundred dollars, and it meant spending several days in a hotel and meals out, which was also an expense the family wasn’t expecting, while they waited for power to be restored. They did have a generator, but it failed, so they gave us a call here at Complete Comfort to see what happened.

Considering A Stand-By Generator? What To Know

Some people consider portable generators in an emergency. Portable generators often require a lot of maintenance and re-fueling, often with gasoline, and must be placed outside. These systems are also loud and not every homeowner wants to deal with setting up and babysitting the portable generator during an emergency.

Unlike portable generators, Stand By Generators like Generac are designed to use propane or natural gas to generate electricity for your home (or part of your home) when the connection to the power grid goes out. The generator will sense the lack of power and turn on, powering the key aspects of your home to keep your home habitable during an emergency, automatically. The systems are self-contained, located outside your home, just like your Air conditioning system or heat pump condenser, and are quiet, especially when compared to portable generators.

Home Stand-by Generators come in different sizes, and every homeowner can choose a generator that works best for them. For example, some people choose a generator that will keep the refrigerator, freezer and HVAC system going, but may not choose to keep other parts of the home electrified. For others, especially those that rely on medical devices or CPAP machines that need electricity to operate, want to make sure other outlets are also powered, to keep them functioning during an extended power outage.

Because generators vary in size and expense, there is a lot of choice in how you want your generator set up.

Standby generators do require maintenance, much like your HVAC system. Generac recommends that you get your generator serviced every 6 months, to check filters, batteries and operation, to make sure the system is ready to run when needed.

Installing A Generac Generator In Marion, VA

Posted on February 3, 2025 by Nate Kiser

Installing A Generac Generator In Marion, VA

This past year we have seen a lot of significant weather events, from hurricanes to snowstorms. Not only has it caused millions of dollars worth of damage, but it also knocked out the power for homes in our area for a significant amount of time. That’s why in the fall of 2024, this Marion, VA homeowner decided they were over the power outages, and wanted to install a new generator in their home.

We have to say, this has been a pretty common call we’ve gotten, as many homes in our area of Virginia have had to deal with this severe weather causing significant power outages. We’ve installed hundreds of generators, and luckily for this homeowner, it was nothing we weren’t used to.

If you live in the Marion, VA area and are thinking about installing a new generator for your home, give Complete Comfort a call at (276) 690-9222, or reach out to us online to schedule a free estimate.

Researching Their New Generator

After deciding they wanted a generator, these homeowners decided to do some research online. It’s what most people do when they are looking to buy something new and expensive. Before they spoke to an expert, they wanted an idea of what they were looking for. After checking out some different brands, they decided to look into a Generac Generator. They went through the Generac website, and decided to submit their name to be contacted by a contractor.

Complete Comfort is a Generac preferred dealer, and after going through the Generac website, they found us! One of our generator experts went out and took a look at their home to choose the RIGHT generator that fit their needs.

Choosing A New Generator

The home in Marion was a beautiful rancher, and one that wasn’t going to require the biggest generator. They wanted something that could power the entire home in case of an outage, and we got them set up with the properly sized Generac Generator.

Not every generator fits every home, and not every home in our area is the same. This is why we measure how much electricity the home will require, and make sure we set our customers up with the right system!

Replacing The Old Electrical Panel

Unfortunately for this homeowner, their electrical panel wasn’t going to be able to handle the generator, and it needed to be replaced. We were able to replace the panel easily, and set them up with the right electrical work that could handle their home’s current electrical needs, the generator, and left them with some capacity for any other additional appliances.
It’s important to have a professional, who is licensed and certified, taking care of these electrical needs. If you are having issues with your electrical panel it can be dangerous, and become a fire hazard if it isn’t addressed.

Why Install A Generator?

Installing a generator means more than simply keeping the lights on during a power outage. Of course it’s great to have the lights on and not have to use candles or flashlights to see, but there are some more important appliances that need power.

Your Internet and WIFI
Your HVAC System
Your Charging Capabilities
Keeps Food From Perishing In The Refrigerator
Powers Any Medical Equipment Your May Have
Keeps Your Lights/TV On

Installing a generator goes a long way to keeping your home powered and running no matter what the weather is like outside. Obviously it’s great to have the lights and TV on, but as you can see, there’s a lot more that comes along with it.

If it’s the summer and the power goes out, you can still have your air conditioner working, keeping your home cool. Or if you work from home, the power going out isn’t going to prevent you from having a productive day. The generator will keep your home powered and prevent you from losing groceries, entertainment, or a day of work!

The Generator Installation Process

After fixing the electrical panel and choosing the right generator, it was time to install the system! The process took about a day, between the panel and the generator. It was a smooth process, and the homeowner couldn’t be happier!

With a whole home, standby generator like this one, it is installed next to the house, and simply sits there waiting for when it’s needed. It’s not like a portable generator you can move around, but instead it’s a permanent fixture next to the house.

There’s no need to flip a switch or press a button when you need power. There is a sensor located in the generator that knows when your power goes out. It usually takes about 15-30 seconds for the generator to kick on and start providing power to the home!

Generator Installation In Marion, VA

Now that the generator is installed, the homeowners are relieved. With all the different storms we’ve had in the past year, it has been a headache losing power over and over, sometimes for extended periods of time. They have peace of mind knowing that the days of power outages for their home are a thing of the past.

If you think a generator is something that would fit your home, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online to speak to a professional. We can help set you up with the right generator for your home!

Replacing An Air Conditioner In Bristol, VA

Posted on January 22, 2025 by Nate Kiser

Replacing An Air Conditioner In Bristol, VA

One of the most common calls we get is for an HVAC system that isn’t working. It’s not often you think about your heating and air conditioning, but when it’s not working, it’s pretty much all you can think about. That was the case for this Bristol, VA homeowner. They had an HVAC system that wasn’t working.

They gave us a call at Complete Comfort to see if someone could come take a look at their air conditioner. Unfortunately for them, they had a very old AC system that needed to be replaced. It was a simple swap out that we are very accustomed to.

In this article, we’ll tell you a little more about the process of replacing their AC, and why they decided to go with us when making the decision. If you think you need your heating or cooling system replaced, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online!

Why They Replaced Their AC

It was evident that it was time to replace the air conditioner when we went out to take a look at it. It was an older model, and even if it could be repaired, it wasn’t worth the cost. It had been running poorly before it broke down, and was costing them a lot of money to operate.

Instead of sinking more money into trying to fix a failing HVAC system, they wanted a replacement. We agreed that replacing the AC was the best decision, and offered them a few different options. They decided to go with a brand new Trane AC system.

Trane systems are some of the most dependable, reliable HVAC systems you can install in your home. They are tested in extreme conditions, and built with energy efficiency in mind. These are some of our favorite HVAC systems to install, mainly because we know how happy they make our customers.

Why They Decided To Go With Complete Comfort

One of the best parts about this project was hearing from the customer about why they chose us. We weren’t the only HVAC company that they called, and got some other quotes as well. When they decided to go with Complete Comfort, they gave us a few reasons why that made us feel very humbled and appreciative.

Thorough Assessment

The first thing that impressed them was the thorough assessment that we went through. We looked at the old system, and also inspected the home as well. We wanted to make sure that the replacement we recommended would keep the entire home comfortable, and also do so without costing them too much to run. We explained the difference between efficiency levels, and how the more efficient system may cost a bit more to install, it’s going to cost less to run over the lifespan of the system.

After seeing how much thought and detail that went into our recommendations, they were impressed, and felt comfortable with us working in their home.

Great Reviews

Part of their decision process was looking at reviews. Fortunately, we have an incredible community of customers who have left us some great reviews. We also have a team of HVAC experts who know the ins and outs of home comfort, and want to go the extra mile for our customers. One of the joys in reading our own reviews is seeing how much our customers love our technicians.

After taking a look through our reviews on Google, these homeowners knew they were working with a team of professionals who cared.

Family Owned And Operated

One of the other things the customers loved about our company was the family aspect. Not only is Complete Comfort a family owned and operated business, but we operate with the same values as a family. Not everyone who works here is related, but we try and treat everyone with the same care and kindness that we do for our own families.

Because of all these factors, the homeowners trusted us with their home comfort, and we could not be more appreciative. It means a lot when we know just how many great HVAC companies there are, and they decided to choose us.

Better Comfort And Lower Energy Bills

After hearing from the homeowners, it sounds like the new air conditioning system was a huge success. Their home is more comfortable than ever before, and their energy bills are lower as well. They want to make sure their system runs well for years to come, so they also have scheduled service for the future as well!

We couldn’t be happier that this project worked out so well for the customer, and look forward to servicing their new AC for the next decade. If you are looking for a new HVAC system for your Bristol, VA home, or any of the surrounding neighborhoods, give us a call at (276) 690-9222. One of our comfort specialists will be happy to get your home set up with the perfect heating and cooling system!

Replacing An Old HVAC System In Marion, VA

Posted on January 8, 2025 by Nate Kiser

Replacing An Old HVAC System In Marion, VA

Routine maintenance for your HVAC system is crucial to getting the most out of your heating and cooling units. Unfortunately for this homeowner in Marion, VA, it wasn’t routine maintenance like usual. Instead they ended up needing to replace their HVAC system, something they knew it was about time to do.

We service all sorts of systems around the area: furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, etc. For a homeowner it’s not a normal occurrence having to replace an HVAC system. It’s something you should only have to do every 12-15 years. For the experts here at Complete Comfort, we are used to running into older systems during routine maintenance, and know every year a few of them are going to have to be replaced.

If you have an older HVAC system that isn’t getting the job done anymore, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online to schedule a free HVAC consultation.

Why Replace An Old HVAC System?

For this homeowner in Marion, VA, they scheduled routine maintenance just like they do every year. Our technician took a look at the system, and before performing maintenance, had a few questions for the homeowners.

He wanted to know how well the unit was performing, and how their energy bills were looking with this system. They noted that the system wasn’t making the home as comfortable as it had in past years. They also mentioned that the energy bills seemed higher than normal also.

Now these symptoms don’t always mean you need an HVAC replacement. It could be the signs of poor insulation, higher energy costs, or harsher weather conditions. Now that our technician knew the issues they were facing, he decided to inspect the system first.

It appeared that the system was older, and a bit outdated compared to the kind of HVAC systems we are installing today. Fortunately for them there were no issues with the ductwork or insulation, and the structure of their home comfort system was intact. Unfortunately though, this also meant that their current HVAC system was in need of a replacement.

Our technician let them know that they could continue to use their current heating and cooling systems, but they would still see the same comfort issues and high energy bills. Upgrading to a new high efficiency system would improve their comfort, and also lower the energy bills going forward. They decided it was time for a replacement.

Installing A New Trane Heat Pump System

After looking at a few options, these homeowners decided to install a new Trane heat pump system. This is going to be able to handle both their heating and cooling needs, and they are able to use the ductwork they already have in place. This made it a simple, smooth replacement.

There were a few reasons they thought the heat pump was the right choice for their home:

Improved Energy Efficiency

Heat pumps are some of the most energy efficient heating and cooling systems we have available. Instead of creating heat through the burning of fossil fuels like traditional gas and oil furnaces, heat pumps instead use the minimal amount of heat from outside, and pump it inside. They use electricity to function, which not only saves energy but also helps the environment.

Improved Comfort

For this particular homeowner, any new system would likely provide better comfort than their current system. In general though, heat pumps are able to provide incredible comfort. This particular heat pump is able to run at varying speeds, meaning it doesn’t just turn off and on. It gets to the temperature you desire, then runs at a low and steady speed to maintain it.

Traditional HVAC systems without variable speed technology will turn off and on, leading to uneven heating and cooling.

Ability To Heat And Cool

Heat pumps not only provide heating, but they also provide cooling as well! In the past most people would install separate heating and cooling systems. Usually a furnace for heating in the winter, and a standard air conditioning system for cooling in the summer. With a heat pump, no need to install 2 different systems!

Installing A Generator

We also installed a new Generac Generator while we upgraded the HVAC system. They were sick of losing power, especially after dealing with the hurricane so recently. They decided to install a whole home generator, something we install every week for homes and businesses in our area.

This new generator will turn on as soon as the power goes out. There’s no switch that needs to be flipped. This system has a sensor that knows when the power goes out, and automatically restores it.

New HVAC Systems In Marion, VA

We gave the homeowner a call after the installation and they couldn’t be happier! The home is more comfortable, and the first energy bill was looking better with the new system as well. Next year when we go out for regular maintenance, we are happy to know they have a system that will be there for the next decade plus.

If you are living in the Marion, VA area or the surrounding neighborhoods and would like to have a free estimate for a new HVAC system, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or reach out to us online. Our experts will be happy to help you choose a new system that fits your home perfectly!

4 Home Tips For The Cold Weather

Posted on January 3, 2025 by Nate Kiser

4 Home Tips For The Cold Weather

Keeping your home warm and cozy is important in the winter, and there’s more to it than simply turning on the heating system. In this article, we’ll go over some tips for the cold weather, and what you can do around your home to keep the space more comfortable.

Obviously, there’s no substitute for a properly functioning heating system. If your furnace isn’t working properly, your home is likely going to be very cold. The biggest priority to home comfort in the winter is to take care of your heating system. In this article, we’ll give you some tips that will help you take care of your heating system, and some other things you can do around the house to make the space warmer.

If you are looking for help with your heating system in Smyth County, VA, the experts here at Complete Comfort can help you out. Give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. We can inspect your heating system, and provide you with routine maintenance, a repair, or a replacement if needed!

How To Make Your Home More Comfortable In Cold Weather

To keep your home comfortable, there are a number of tasks you can accomplish on your own, as well as some things you can hire a professional to take care of. It’s important to remember that if you feel uncomfortable with any of this, call in a professional to help you out.

Use Throw Blankets, Slippers, and Area Rugs

Using throw blankets, slippers, and area rugs are simple, but effective ways to stay comfortable once it starts to get cold out. Instead of cranking up the heat to an uncomfortable level, using these items will help you stay comfortable and cozy in your home. Keeping your feet off the floor by using area rugs and slippers goes a long way, just like having a few blankets to cover up when you are watching TV.

Once again, this is something you generally do on your own, and as long as you don’t need to go out and purchase all this at once, it’s not a very expensive task.

Turn Your Ceiling Fan To Clockwise

Most of the time your ceiling fan is used to cool you off in the warmer months. What a lot of people don’t realize is that your fan can also be used to keep your place warm as well. If you turn the fan clockwise, it creates a downdraft that will push the warm air that rises in your home back down into the living space. The key is to have the fan on a low speed so it gently pushes the warm air down. If the fan is moving too fast, it can make the air cool.

To change the direction of your fan, you should be able to flip a little switch located by the base of your ceiling fan.

Check Your Insulation/Seal Windows And Doors

Sealing leaks and cracks in your windows and doors goes a long way to keeping your home more comfortable and warmer. It also really helps save energy and maintain lower utility bills. This can be a tougher task, and one that requires some handy work, or potentially hiring a professional.

If you want to have your insulation improved, calling in a professional may be the right choice. They can inspect the insulation in your ceiling, and areas that are easier to improve. You can probably seal cracks and leaks in the windows and doors a bit easier. You can use a sealant that eliminates little drafts and air escaping through your windows. You can also use weather stripping or door draft blockers to eliminate the draft from the door as well.

If you live in a home with older windows and doors, it may be a good idea to invest in newer, energy efficient ones. Single pane windows can be a huge source of energy loss. You probably notice the chill coming from the window when it’s very cold out. It can be a pricey investment installing new windows and doors, but one that eventually pays itself off with saving on your energy bills.

Schedule Heating System Service

Your heating system should be serviced at least once a year. This leads to:

Improved Energy Efficiency
Smoother Operation
Lower Energy Bills
Improved Heating/Comfort
Longer System Lifespan
Maintains Warranty
Improved Indoor Air Quality

There are more benefits to heating service than you sometimes realize. We recommend you have your furnace or heat pump serviced at least once a year. This will ensure its smooth operation, and improve your home comfort for winters to come.

Bonus Tip: Use Sunlight To Heat Your Home

Ok here’s one more little tip to keeping your home warm. Open your blinds to allow sunlight in your home during the day. It’s a natural way to keep your home warmer without cranking up the heat. If you have rooms that don’t get direct sunlight, leave the blinds closed and pulled all the way down. It can serve as a small layer of insulation.

Heating Service And Repair In Smyth County, VA

We hope these tips are beneficial for your home comfort this winter. We know how frustrating a cold home can be, and our goal is to make sure everyone in Smyth County is warm and cozy all winter long.

If you need some help with your furnace or heat pump, look no further! The experts at Complete Comfort specialize in heating service and repair in Smyth County, and some of the surrounding neighborhoods as well. Give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online to speak to an expert ASAP!

What Are The Most Common Furnace Problems?

Posted on December 12, 2024 by Nate Kiser

What Are The Most Common Furnace Problems?

As it gets colder out, furnaces have to work harder to keep our homes warm, and can run into some problems in the process. Having your furnace break down on you during the winter cold is never fun, and it’s not always clear what’s wrong.

Luckily, we have dealt with all sorts of different furnace issues, and know how to fix them. In this article, I’m going to go over some of the most common furnace problems we see, and what you can do to solve them.

If you are having issues with your heating system, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. We have been helping out homes and businesses in the Abingdon, VA area with their comfort issues for years, and can help you as well!

Furnace Blowing Cold Air

If your furnace is blowing cold air, it’s clearly having some sort of problem. Now, there’s not always a clear reason that your system is blowing cold air. In fact, there could be a number of reasons that your system is having problems.

You could be having trouble with:

The pilot light
The flame sensor
Your ductwork
The thermostat
A clogged air filter

These are just a few of the potential problems. There are even more than that. If your system has been running for 15-30 minutes, and it still isn’t warming up, turn it off and call a professional. If the system is still running, but isn’t heating your home, it’s still wasting energy. The last thing you want to do is waste money while getting no heat at all.

Not Enough Airflow Around The Home

This problem is similar to the furnace blowing cold air, in the way of it having a lot of potential reasons for this problem. We see this a lot with rooms that are furthest away from the furnace, mostly bedrooms that are furthest from the basement.

This could be caused by:

Blower motor issues
Fan not working
A clogged air filter
Leaky or mis-designed ductwork
Blocked vents

Once again, it could be a number of different issues. We recommend checking your air filter to see if it’s clogged. Once this is replaced, if you are still having airflow issues, give a professional a call. They will inspect your furnace and your ductwork to find the reason the air isn’t distributing properly.

Constant Cycling Off And On

If you hear your HVAC system turning off and on constantly, it could be the sign of a problem, and could lead to comfort issues. The constant off/on leads to fluctuations in temperature, and can be wasting energy as well.

Sometimes this is a sign you have a problem with your thermostat, or a sign that your system is improperly sized. If you just installed your HVAC system and it is cycling like this, you may have simply chosen the wrong size. If you have had your HVAC system for a while, and this is the first time this has happened, it’s likely a sign that it’s a fixable issue.

Once again, we recommend that you call a professional to assess your issue, and make sure your HVAC system is running smoothly and safely.

Carbon Monoxide Leaks

If you use a furnace, there’s a very strong chance that it uses either gas or oil to burn and create heat. During this combustion process, gasses are created that can be harmful and dangerous. When your furnace is functioning properly, these are expelled from your home through a flue system.

If there’s a problem with the system, or maybe a crack in your heat exchanger, it can cause gasses to leak. Carbon monoxide is one of these gasses, and it’s odorless, colorless, and also deathly poisonous. This is why every home that uses a furnace should have a carbon monoxide detector. If your heating system is leaking carbon monoxide, you may not know until it’s too late.

Now this isn’t something that happens all the time, but it’s a major concern with any heating system. If your system has a leak, turn it off immediately and call an HVAC professional right away!

Best Way To Avoid Furnace Problems

Now that you know a little more about the most common furnace problems, you should also know how to avoid them. Here are the best 2 ways you can take care of your furnace and avoid issues:

Changing Your Air Filter

Changing your HVAC system’s air filter is simple and important. As it gets filled up with particles, it can get clogged and prevent airflow, as we mentioned above. We recommend keeping a few filters on hand so you can change them once every 1-3 months.

During a routine HVAC service, your technician should change your filters, but this only happens once a year typically. Keeping a few filters at home will allow you to change them on your own, without having to worry about a professional technician coming in to do it.

If you don’t know how to change it, we recommend:

Having your HVAC technician show you during a routine maintenance
Looking at your owner’s manual for your HVAC system
Looking up how to change a filter on Youtube

This is a fairly easy task, and one you can do on your own to improve airflow, and indoor air quality!

Scheduling Regular HVAC Service

The best and most effective way to avoid furnace problems is by scheduling routine furnace maintenance. We recommend you have your furnace serviced at least once a year, preferably before the heating season.

During a routine furnace maintenance, your technician will do a lot more than simply changing the air filter. During a routine maintenance, the technician will:

Clean all the components inside your furnace
Change your air filter
Inspect wiring, the pilot light, the flame sensor
Ensure all parts are working properly and aren’t in need of replacement
Ensure the system is operating safely

Instead of waiting for problems with your heating system, regular maintenance gets ahead of them and helps prevent them from ever occurring. Just like any machine needs service and care, or it will break down, your HVAC system is the same.

Regular service for your heating system will also come with some other benefits, outside of the fewer breakdown:

Better efficiency
Lower energy bills
Longer system lifespan
Fewer problems/breakdowns
Improved indoor air quality
Maintains warranty

Scheduling regular maintenance for your furnace is so important, and the number one thing we can recommend to keep your heating system running well for years and years.

If you are having issues with your furnace and would like to speak to an expert, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, and we will have one of the team members here at Compass help you out!