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!

Replacing A Broken AC In Marion, VA

Posted on October 2, 2024 by Nate Kiser

Replacing A Broken AC In Marion, VA

When a homeowner gives us a call for service on their HVAC system, we know they want to get up and running as soon as possible. The owner of this lovely single family home in Marion, VA, in Spottswood Place, wasn’t getting the AC comfort she wanted, and thought she might have a refrigerant leak of some sort. We sent out one of our best technicians, Alex, to see what the problem was.

A call like this is very common, and something we are used to handling. Luckily we were able to get out and check the system out that week, and make sure this home was cool and comfortable in no time!

Diagnosing AC Issues

Alex noticed that the AC unit would kick on when it was cold, but once it got hot, it would no longer turn on when it needed to, but that using a hard start, they could get the compressor working again. This is the equivalent to the starter motor in your car starting to go, when you sit behind the wheel praying this time, when you turn the key, the thing will start when you need it to.

As they began to talk about solutions, and that it was clear that the compressor would need to be replaced at some point in the future, the homeowner asked for a quote on a new system.

Fix or Replace?

One of the toughest decisions to make on an aging HVAC system is whether it’s time to start considering a new system. As systems reach the end of their lifespan, they start breaking down more frequently and require more repairs. This can get expensive, quickly, especially if you have an older AC system using a refrigerant that is being phased out by the EPA and no longer readily available. Older systems also tend to be much less efficient and start to use more and more energy, escalating your monthly energy bills, too.

At Complete Comfort, we’re also homeowners who have had to make these same decisions ourselves. We know that multiple repairs is expensive, but a new system is even more money. A new system will give you improved energy efficiency and lower energy bills each month. But replacement is a big job that takes at least a day to complete, and it can cost a lot, depending on what kind of system you choose for your home.

We never want to replace a system that can be easily repaired, but we also let every customer know when we begin to see signs that they should start considering replacement in the next year or two, so they can plan accordingly. The only thing worse than having to replace your system is having to replace it in an emergency- during a heat wave or a massive snow storm. No one wants that!

Installing A New Trane System

The Homeowner realized her system was getting to the point it should be replaced, so she asked us to give her a quote on a new system. Nate came out and looked at her system and performed a “load calculation” on her home. This involves calculating the square footage, where you live, accounting for windows, insulation and more to get a sense of how big of a system you might need for your home. You can click here to see a sample calculator.

Nate determined that a 4 ton Air Conditioning system could be added on to the existing furnace, which was still in good shape. We could add a new outdoor pad for the system, connections and everything needed including new refrigerant lines and get this homeowner up and going in no time.

Why Replace Instead Of Repair?

Often as systems age, you can anticipate having to replace your furnace and AC often at the same time. In this case, the old AC system had developed significant issues, but the furnace was still in great shape, so this really helped keep the replacement costs under control.

We were able to replace this system and give the homeowner a more efficient AC system which will help them save money every month on energy bills, which is important with the increasingly hot and humid weather we have here in VA. And when you add a newer, efficient system, you can also take advantage of rebates from the local energy company and tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act, that can really help making replacing your system more affordable than ever.

If you are concerned about your system’s performance and are considering an upgrade, give us a call at Complete Comfort. We’ll work with you to find a solution that meets your needs and budget, and you can have the comfort you crave, while not breaking the bank. And best of all, your new system will save you money every month by giving you more comfort while using less energy- something every homeowner can appreciate!

When Is The Best Time Of Year For AC Service?

Posted on May 23, 2024 by Nate Kiser

When Is The Best Time Of Year For AC Service?

Having your air conditioner serviced every year is the best way to get the most out of your cooling system. The question here is, when is the best time of year to have your air conditioner serviced? In our opinion, the best time of year to have your AC serviced is the Spring. Once the weather starts to warm up a bit, it’s time to have your AC serviced.

I’ve been servicing air conditioners all around Chilhowie, Adingdon, Merion, and the surrounding VA towns for years. The common theme I see is the systems that we service yearly are in much better shape than the systems we only see for a repair or replacement. Air conditioning systems are supposed to last for over a decade, and it’s important that you take care of this system, as it has a huge impact on your energy bills and your home comfort.

In this article, we will explain why the Spring is the best time of year to have your AC serviced, and why you should have your air conditioner serviced every year. If you are looking to speak to a professional about AC service, or schedule an appointment, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online!

Why Is Spring The Best Time Of Year For AC Service?

Spring is the best time of year for AC service for a few reasons. For starters, it’s before the summer heat kicks in for good. Once it’s very hot out, you are going to want your air conditioner operating and not in need of professional help.

Also, HVAC contractors and technicians aren’t as busy in the Spring. During the Summer, AC systems are breaking down, and the schedule can fill up for an HVAC professional. During the Spring, there is more availability to schedule your air conditioner service at your convenience.

Can You Have Your AC Serviced In The Winter?

No, you can’t have your air conditioner serviced in the winter. A technician needs to be able to run your AC and make sure the cooling system works properly. Now, you can have the system looked at and cleaned up, but without being able to test it out, it’s really not a great time to schedule AC service. We recommend Spring, Summer, or early Fall.

How Often Should You Have Your AC Serviced?

You should have your air conditioner serviced at least once a year. Sometimes if you have an older model you can schedule a service for the beginning of the season, and another at the end, but the truth is one service should do the trick.

A professional service makes sure you are getting the most out of your AC system. Just like any machine, your air conditioner is going to have some normal wear and tear over its years of operation. Just like having your car serviced and having the oil changed, you should do the same for your HVAC system.

Why Should You Have Your AC Serviced?

As we’ve already mentioned a few times, you get the most out of your air conditioner by scheduling a professional service once a year. Here are some of the benefits of annual AC service:

Better Energy Efficiency

When you have your AC serviced, you are making sure that the system is working properly and efficiently. A technician will inspect the system, and clean the components of your AC. They will replace the filter, and make sure that the air conditioner is providing cool air as it is needed.

If you go seasons without AC service, you will notice the system starts to lose energy efficiency. Just like any machine, as the years pass on, the machine will progressively work less efficiently. This is going to result in poor performance, and likely higher energy bills. If your system is serviced and stays efficient, it’s going to help you consume less energy, and lower your cooling bills.

Longer AC Lifespan

Your air conditioner should last for over a decade. We’ve even seen some well maintained systems that last 20 years long. Your air conditioner is a major investment for your home, and one you are going to want to last for years. If you don’t take care of your air conditioner, you could see your system die years prematurely, costing you unnecessary money with an early replacement.

Fewer Breakdowns

If your air conditioner is maintained and healthy, you are going to experience fewer problems and breakdowns. This should give you peace of mind knowing your AC is going to be working once it gets very hot out. It also helps lessen your financial risk. A repair is always going to be more expensive than a service. We recommend spending the money on service rather than risking a higher cost of a repair later.

Improved Cooling

If your air conditioner is serviced and working efficiently, it’s going to keep you cooler and happier at home! Obviously, all the cost savings we mentioned are important, but the main function of your cooling system is to keep you cool. If you have a professional taking care of the system every year, you are going to get the best cooling available!

Scheduling Your Air Conditioning Service

So now you know when the best time of year to have your cooling system serviced is during the Spring. Still, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t schedule service in the Summer. The real lesson here is to be consistent with yearly maintenance for your air conditioning system. If you start to skip AC service season after season, it’s going to end up costing you comfort and money in the long run. If you are looking for the best cooling services in Chilhowie, VA, we have you covered. Just give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online!

How To Save Energy With Your Air Conditioning This Summer

Posted on May 9, 2024 by Nate Kiser

How To Save Energy With Your Air Conditioning This Summer

I remember growing up my dad didn’t want to put the air conditioning on until the last possible second. He hated seeing the energy bills every month during the summer. As an adult, I can totally relate to him. With the HVAC technology we have today, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your comfort just to save a few bucks. There are some simple and effective ways to save money with your air conditioning this summer.

I have been servicing and repairing air conditioning systems for over 10 years, and I hear from homeowners all the time about their AC costing them more than the past, and there are a few reasons for that. Maybe the air conditioning system is old and losing efficiency. In other cases they haven’t had the system serviced in years.

No matter what the case, there are ways, some simple and cheap, some more complicated and expensive, to lower your energy bills. In this article, I’ll tell you a little more about how you can keep your air conditioning bills under control.

How Do You Know Your AC Is Using Too Much Energy?

It’s natural for an air conditioner to drive your energy bills up. So how can you tell your AC is using too much energy? Clearly, the most obvious way to know if something is up with your system using too much energy is by looking at the energy bill.

For one, your energy bill usually comes with a few pieces of data that show you your usage breakdown compared to yourself last year, as well as your neighbors. You can see how you stack up when it comes to energy use. Sometimes, the previous year is tough to gauge, due to changes in the weather. I prefer to look at my usage compared to those around me.

If your energy bills spike in a strange way you don’t remember in years past, it could also be a sign that your system is overworking itself. This is also the case if your home just never gets cool, but the AC constantly runs. Now there are certain AC systems that are supposed to run constantly, but if the home isn’t getting cool enough, you should call in a professional.

Ways To Save Energy On Your AC

There are ways to save money when it comes to your air conditioning. Some of these are simple things you can do on your own. Others are a bit more expensive and involve hiring professionals.

Scheduling Routine Service

This is a simple step, but likely the most important when it comes to saving money on your air conditioning bills. With a routine AC service, the technician makes sure everything is working properly, and gets ahead of any kind of parts or components that may need to be replaced. This routine maintenance will help your system work efficiently, and lengthen the life of your AC system.

We recommend having your AC system serviced at least once a year, preferably before the summer. This will help keep your system running efficiently, and also keep your warranty in tact!

Changing Your Air Filter

Changing your air filter is an easy step you can perform on your own, and should once every few months. Your air filter catches any particles and debris that pass through your HVAC system. After running the system for a few weeks, the particles will build up and clog the filter.

If your HVAC filter is clogged, it will prevent proper air flow, forcing the air conditioner to work harder to deliver the air. It also makes the air in your home dirtier. We recommend having a few filters on hand so you can change them regularly. This will keep the air flow happening as it should, and your air cleaner and healthier to breathe.

Use A Programmable Or Smart Thermostat

An upgraded thermostat can help you save between 5% and 30% on your energy use. Programmable and smart thermostats are designed to adjust themselves as needed, and save as much energy as possible in the process.

These thermostats can be programmed to keep the home the way you like it during certain hours, and then adjust for when you aren’t home, or when you are sleeping. Installing a smart thermostat will cost you money to install, but should pay for itself in the long run.

Seal The Leaks Around Windows And Doors

If your home is leaking cool air, it’s going to cause your AC to work harder to compensate for the lost air. Air can be lost in the vents, out of windows, and under doors. Installing weather stripping, or using sealant to make sure the leaks are prevented is an easy way to stop energy loss.

We recommend you have a home energy assessment and see where you are losing energy. This is going to help you fix the energy issues, and make the home more comfortable!

Close Your Blinds

Here is a REALLY easy one. Closing your blinds to prevent the sun from entering is a perfect way to keep the place cooler. This goes especially for rooms you aren’t using. Sunlight naturally warms a space, and if your home is warmer, it’s going to take more energy for your AC to keep it cool. We all love some natural light in the house, but limiting it will help you keep the space cooler and the energy bills down!

Add Shade To Your Home

This is one that is a little more complicated. If your home faces the sun, it’s going to warm the home up. Adding trees to your property, or bushes around the house may provide a bit of shade, keeping the space cooler, and adding a nice aesthetic to the outside of your home.

Obviously, this can become a potentially involved and expensive project, and one that isn’t feasible for everyone. But, if you have the space and the means, it may be a nice way to beautify and cool your home at the same time!

Upgrade Your HVAC System

This is likely one of the most expensive, but also effective ways to keep the energy bills down. If you have an air conditioner that is 10+ years old, or has had lots of repairs performed on it, it could be time to replace it. The requirements for minimum SEER, the rating system for how efficient your AC is, has also gone up in recent years. A new energy efficient HVAC system will lower your energy bills, and improve the comfort of your home.

4 Benefits Of Regular AC Service

Posted on March 21, 2024June 1, 2025 by Nate Kiser

Your air conditioning system is one of the most important components of your home. It keeps you cool and comfortable once it gets hot out, as long as it’s working properly. In order to keep your AC running efficiently, regular service is required. There are several benefits of AC service, like extending its lifespan, improving energy efficiency, and better cooling.

I’ve been servicing and repairing AC systems for 8 years, and have seen first hand how important regular maintenance is. The systems that have been maintained once a year are usually running better, using less energy, and lasting years longer. It’s common that when we receive a call to fix an AC system, it hasn’t been serviced on a regular basis.

This article will dive into the benefits of regular AC service, what you can do on your own, and when you should have your air conditioner maintained each year. If you are in need of AC service or would like to talk to an expert about your home cooling, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online.

When Should You Have Your Air Conditioner Serviced?

The best time for AC service is in the spring. Now that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have your AC serviced in the summer, but it’s better to have it taken care of before the extreme heat gets here. HVAC contractors usually have more time in the spring, and tend to get busier once the summer is here. Once the weather is consistently above 50 degrees, we recommend that you schedule a professional AC service.

The Benefits Of Annual AC Service

You have likely heard about service for your HVAC system in the past, but it’s important to know why you should schedule AC service. Just like having your car serviced every so many miles, your air conditioner should be taken care of as well. Most machines require some sort of regular service or maintenance. Here are 4 key reasons to schedule regular AC service:

Improved Cooling

The first reason to have your AC serviced is better cooling! Technicians change the air filters, clean coils, and other components, removing dirt and debris that hinder performance. This not only improves cooling efficiency but also provides a more comfortable living environment during hot weather. They will check to make sure that air is flowing to each vent, and that your thermostat is working properly as well.

Better Energy Efficiency

Regular service for your air conditioner also helps improve energy efficiency. An efficiently running AC unit consumes less energy, which translates to lower electricity bills. During service, technicians check for any issues that may cause the system to work harder than necessary, such as clogged filters or leaking ducts. If your system is not running efficiently, it causes issues with energy consumption, breakdowns, and a shorter lifespan.

Longer System Lifespan

Your AC system should last between 12-15 years with regular service. By identifying and fixing minor issues before they escalate into major problems, you avoid the need for costly repairs or premature replacement. We’ve seen some systems that have to be replaced years too soon, and a big reason was that they didn’t have yearly AC service performed. We’ve also seen some systems that have lasted up to 20 years, all because of how well they were maintained!

Better Indoor Air Quality

A clean, well-serviced AC will provide healthier indoor air quality. Regular service includes cleaning or replacing air filters, which are designed to catch any airborne irritants like dust, dirt, allergens, etc. If you go months without replacing them, they can become clogged, which will prevent airflow, and also pump dirtier air into your home.

How Often Should You Have Your AC Serviced?

We recommended that you have your air conditioning system serviced at least once a year. This annual maintenance ensures that your unit is ready to perform throughout the summer. If your system is older, then you may want to have someone look at it again towards the end of the summer to see how well it has held up. Still, as long as you have your AC serviced once a year, you should be in good shape!

What Can You Do To Maintain Your AC System

In between professional services, there are several things you can do on your own to maintain your AC system:

Regularly Replace or Clean Air Filters: This is a simple task that can significantly impact your unit’s efficiency and your indoor air quality. Buy a few filters to have them around the house. This way you can change them every few months as needed without a professional.
Keep the Area Around the Unit Clear: Clean up around your outdoor unit. Make sure there’s no debris, plants, or other obstructions that could impede airflow.

Expert AC Service In Wytheville, VA

For residents looking for AC service in Wytheville, VA, Complete Comfort has your back. We have been servicing, repairing, and installing air conditioning systems for years, and can help you get the absolute most out of your HVAC system. Give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online to schedule your AC service!

AC Tips During A Heat Wave

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

Change Your Air Filter

Use Your Blinds To Block Out The Sun

Don’t Use Heat Producing Appliances During The Day

Seal Cracks On Windows And Doors

Using Fans

Home Tips During A Heat Wave (Hiring A Professional)

Perform Annual Air Conditioner Service

Installing New Insulation

Installing New Windows And Doors

Air Conditioning Services In Southwest Virginia

Replacing A Broken AC In Marion, VA

Diagnosing AC Issues

Fix or Replace?

Installing A New Trane System

Why Replace Instead Of Repair?

When Is The Best Time Of Year For AC Service?

Why Is Spring The Best Time Of Year For AC Service?

Can You Have Your AC Serviced In The Winter?

How Often Should You Have Your AC Serviced?

Why Should You Have Your AC Serviced?

Better Energy Efficiency

Longer AC Lifespan

Fewer Breakdowns

Improved Cooling

Scheduling Your Air Conditioning Service

How To Save Energy With Your Air Conditioning This Summer

How Do You Know Your AC Is Using Too Much Energy?

Ways To Save Energy On Your AC

Scheduling Routine Service

Changing Your Air Filter

Use A Programmable Or Smart Thermostat

Seal The Leaks Around Windows And Doors

Close Your Blinds

Add Shade To Your Home

Upgrade Your HVAC System

When Should You Have Your Air Conditioner Serviced?

The Benefits Of Annual AC Service

Improved Cooling

Better Energy Efficiency

Longer System Lifespan

Better Indoor Air Quality

How Often Should You Have Your AC Serviced?

What Can You Do To Maintain Your AC System

Expert AC Service In Wytheville, VA

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# 2705170191 / Class A