How To Change Your HVAC System’s Air Filter

Posted on December 19, 2025December 19, 2025 by David Cochran

How To Change Your HVAC System’s Air Filter

Changing your air filter is a simple process, but an important step in making sure the air in your home is clean and the HVAC system is running smoothly. Unfortunately, it’s often a task that goes overlooked or forgotten, and can lead to problems.

We’ve been replacing filters in HVAC systems for years. Heck, I was even changing the air filter at my home when I was a kid. The point is, it’s a very easy task, but if you’ve never done it before, you may not know how it’s done. In this article, we’ll tell you how to replace an air filter, and why it’s so important!

If you want to speak to an expert about your HVAC system, call us today at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. Our experts are happy to help you get your home ready for the next season, whether you need your filter changed, HVAC system serviced, or a brand new upgrade!

Steps To Change Your Air Filter

Changing the air filter in your HVAC system is an important and easy task, one you should be able to perform on your own. Here are the steps you need to take to change your air filter:

Air Handler Filter Replacement:

Turn Off Your HVAC System: You don’t want your HVAC system running while there is no filter in place.
Locate Your Filter: The filter is usually located by the air handler. It may also be behind a grate over your air return. If you have trouble locating the filter, consult your manual. You can also ask your HVAC technician during a routine maintenance. They can show you where it’s located and give you a tutorial on how to change it.
Remove The Old Filter: You may have to take a small covering or case off first to access your air filter. Once you have the cover off, remove the air filter gently. It’s going to be full of dirt and debris, so you will want to have a trash bag ready to dispose of it right away.
Insert The New Filter: The new filter should have little arrows showing you which direction it should be inserted. Once you put the new filter in, replace the cover.
Turn On Your System: Now that the filter is secure and in place, it’s time to turn the system back on.

Return Vent Grille Filter Replacement:

If you have a return vent that has a filter behind it that needs to be replaced, this is also a simple swap.

Remove The Grate: Remove the grate that the filter is hidden behind. If this is high up, be careful, and maybe make sure someone is there to assist you if you need to use a ladder. This grate usually has a hook that you pull and unlatch it, rather than needing to unscrew anything.
Remove The Filter: Have a trash bag handy to throw out the dirty filter. Make sure you wipe away any excess dirt and debris left over, and clean off the grate as well.
Replace The Filter: You can now place the new filter and secure the grate back on.

That’s it! It’s a simple task, but one that often goes forgotten.

As we mentioned above, if you are having trouble replacing your filter, ask your HVAC technician to show you during a routine maintenance. You should have your HVAC system serviced at least once a year, and during this visit, the technician will be able to show you how it’s done. They will show you where the filter is, and how to replace it.

Why Should You Replace Your Air Filter?

Replacing your air filter keeps the air in your home clean and also helps promote better airflow. The purpose of your filter is to catch any particles that may be floating in the air. Dust, allergens, bacteria, mold spores, and more are floating around the air, and with a dirty filter, it will fail to prevent them from passing through.

Over time, if the filter gets clogged, it’s going to create dirtier air, and also prevent your HVAC system from pumping air smoothly through your home. This backed-up airflow may cause different problems:

Your system could short-cycle
Your system may stop producing warm/cool air
Your heat exchanger could crack in your furnace
Your coil could freeze on your AC
Your air will become dirtier and less healthy to breathe
Your system may have to run harder, driving up your energy bills

For such an easy task to take care of, you can see the many benefits of replacing the air filter.

How Often Should You Replace Your Air Filter?

We recommend you replace the air filter once every 1-3 months. During the winter and summer, when your HVAC system is running constantly, and the windows are closed more often, you may want to replace it every month or 2. During the spring and fall, when the HVAC system is off and the windows are open, you have more fresh air, and likely only need to replace it once during the season.

We recommend having a few filters on standby, so you don’t have to worry about going to the store every time you need a new one.

HVAC Service In Southwest Virginia

If you need some help replacing your air filter and you are located in Southwest Virginia, give Complete Comfort a call! We can help you replace your air filter and set you up with a complete HVAC service. You can reach us at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online.

We’ve been helping homeowners and businesses stay comfortable in Chilhowie, Abingdon, Bristol, and all the surrounding towns since 2011, and we look forward to helping out for years to come. Check out our reviews to see just how happy we make our customers!

End Of Summer Home Tips From Complete Comfort

Posted on August 25, 2025August 25, 2025 by David Cochran

End Of Summer Home Tips From Complete Comfort

As summer winds down here in Southwest Virginia, it’s the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for the change in seasons. At Complete Comfort in Chilhowie, VA, we’ve been helping families in Marion, Abingdon, Wytheville, and across the region stay comfortable year-round since 2011. With Labor Day a week away, the end of summer is a great reminder to tackle a few essential home maintenance tasks that will keep your home clean and comfortable. This means taking care of your HVAC system, along with a couple of other tasks you can accomplish.

Whether you’re preparing for cooler fall temperatures or just wrapping up the busy summer season, these tips will help you save money, protect your home, and improve your comfort. If you want to speak to one of the experts here at Complete Comfort, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. We can help you out with HVAC service, prepare your home with backup power, or simply answer any questions you may have!

Schedule End-Of-Season HVAC Maintenance

If you haven’t had your air conditioning system serviced this year, the end of the summer is a perfect time. Your air conditioner has been working hard all summer long. This end-of-summer service check ensures everything is clean, efficient, and ready for next year. If you need to replace it or have a component replaced, it’s nice having it done before next summer when the prices have risen and it becomes more of a pressing issue.

You should also be evaluating your energy bills over the summer. Compare them to the beginning of the year, last year at the same time, and to your neighbors’ bills. This could be a good indicator if your system has been losing energy efficiency over the summer, and is due for a service to increase energy efficiency.

Change Your Air Filters

Changing your HVAC filter is one of the simplest—and most important—tasks you can perform on your own. After months of running your air conditioner, your filter fills up with dust, pollen, and any other airborne irritants that pass through. We recommend that you change the filter once every 1-3 months. At the end of the summer is a perfect time to do it.

This clean filter will help you keep the air in your home clean and healthy. This is especially important for any occupants who have breathing issues, or who should simply be watching their health a little more closely. This pertains to the elderly, very young children, and anyone with breathing problems like asthma or emphysema. It’s also important for homes with pets that could create more hair and dander that float through the air.

Seal Windows And Doors

The changing of the seasons is always a good time to make slight improvements. One of those is sealing windows and doors so you have less exposure to the air outside. Take a walk around your home and check for gaps around doors and windows. Sealing up those cracks and leaks is going to help improve your home’s comfort, and also lower energy bills. If the HVAC system isn’t working as hard to keep the space comfortable, it’s going to cost less to run.

Prep Your Thermostat For Fall

If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, now’s the time to adjust your settings for cooler weather. Set your schedule now that the kids are back to school and you are back to a regular working schedule. Programming your thermostat to match your family’s fall schedule helps maximize comfort while keeping energy costs down. If you want to improve your home with a smart thermostat, give Complete Comfort a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online! We can get your home set up with a smart thermostat that can help lower your energy use, and also add easier ways to control the system, like apps on your phone or tablet.

Consider Upgrading To A Heat Pump

Now that the summer is coming to a close, you can make a decision if you need a new HVAC system, or sticking with the one you’ve been using. If the air conditioner didn’t keep your home cool, it may be time to consider a new energy efficient heat pump. Modern heat pumps not only cool your home in the summer, but also provide efficient heating in the winter.

Right now, through the end of 2025, there are tax credits available through the Inflation Reduction Act. Unfortunately, these tax credits are almost certainly going away on January 1st, 2026, as the One Big Beautiful Bill is going to eliminate this tax credit for home owners. This credit can go up to $2000 for a new heat pump, and up to $600 for a new AC or furnace.

We can help you choose the RIGHT heat pump that fits your home, and qualifies for rebates or tax credits that will help you save on the cost of the installation.

Test Your Generator Before Storm Season

Here in Southwest Virginia, we know that fall and winter can bring strong storms and unexpected power outages. We all remember 2024 when we saw extended power issues with hurricane season hitting us hard. If you already have a Generac standby generator, now’s a great time to test it and make sure it’s ready to kick on when you need it. Our experts are trained and certified to service these generators, and ensure they are working properly and safely.

If you don’t have a generator for your home, we can help you explore options that keep your home safe and powered through any weather!

Clean Up Outdoor Units, Gutter, And Patio Furniture

One of the more obvious areas of attention is cleaning your home’s exterior. This is usually a task people are used to. Trim back bushes or weeds that may have grown around your outdoor AC unit, and clear out leaves and debris from your gutters. If sticks and leaves are messing up the fans in your HVAC system’s condenser, it could cause issues with your home comfort, and lead to a costly repair. If your gutters are full and weighed down,

Another thing to make sure is taken care of is your patio furniture. Make sure your patio furniture is secured and ready for the winter. That could mean putting it away for the season, or just securing it so it doesn’t get blown away by a storm! The last hing you want is to get to next summer and have to replace it all.

You may also want to treat any cracks or breaks in your cement and pavement. These are a little more complicated than cleaning out the gutters, but the mild weather in the fall is the perfect time to finish outdoor projects and improvements for your home.

Get Your Home Ready With Complete Comfort

Taking care of these small tasks at the end of summer will help you stay comfortable and save money. At Complete Comfort, we’re proud to be a family-owned HVAC and electrical company serving Chilhowie, Marion, Abingdon, and the surrounding areas for more than a decade.

If you’d like help with end-of-summer maintenance, HVAC service, or even exploring a new heat pump or generator, give us a call at (276) 690-9222 or contact us online. Our team is here to keep your home comfortable, no matter the season.

The Advantages Of A Maintenance Plan For Your HVAC System

Posted on August 14, 2025August 28, 2025 by David Cochran

The Advantages Of A Maintenance Plan For Your HVAC System

A maintenance plan for your HVAC system is a great investment for your home. The best way to take care of your heating and cooling system is to schedule annual maintenance. Most HVAC companies, including us here at Complete Comfort, have maintenance agreements that will help you save money while ensuring your system is well-maintained and taken care of.

I’ve been working in Southwest Virginia for about 15 years now, servicing, installing, and replacing HVAC systems. From heat pumps to furnaces and air conditioners, every system should be serviced at least once, sometimes even twice a year. Let me tell you, the difference between a well-maintained HVAC system and one that isn’t serviced for years is evident.

If you want to speak to us about a service plan for your HVAC system, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. Our specialists will be happy to answer any questions you may have, and get you scheduled for a service on your system.

Why Should You Have A Maintenance Plan?

A maintenance plan is designed to help you save money in the long run when it comes to HVAC service, maintenance, repairs, and general upkeep. You pay a yearly fee for your plan, which then gives you access to discounts and priority scheduling for service or repairs. Each company’s service plan is different, and you should make sure you know what you get when you sign up for a service plan.

If you are taking care of your HVAC system regularly anyway, it makes sense to have a service plan, especially with a family-owned and operated business like Complete Comfort. When you sign up for a service plan with us, we make sure that we get to know your HVAC system and your home’s needs. You aren’t seeing a new technician every single time, or running into automated answering services. We have people at the office to speak with, and we make sure that you have a knowledgeable technician you trust.

Why You Should Have Your HVAC System Serviced

It’s important to have your HVAC system serviced at least once a year, preferably before the season you need it. That means heating service in the fall/winter, cooling service in the spring/summer. Your HVAC system lasts for years, in most cases over a decade. Ensuring that your system is well-maintained is the best way to save money, stay comfortable, and make sure it lasts as long as it possibly can.

Some of the main reasons you should schedule professional HVAC service every year include:

Improved Energy Efficiency

During routine maintenance, your system is cleaned and inspected. We make sure that every part is working smoothly and properly. This helps the system stay energy efficient. If you go for years without maintenance, general wear and tear is going to reduce energy efficiency, driving up your energy bills and leading you to more problems.

Lower Energy Bills

As a result of a more energy-efficient HVAC system, your energy bills should maintain, or go down. When you improve your energy efficiency, it means using less energy to produce the same amount of comfort. If you are using less energy, you are spending less on energy bills!

Longer System Lifespan

Any mechanical system needs regular maintenance in order to last as long as it should. You wouldn’t expect your car to run for years without an oil change right? The same applies to your HVAC system. Whether you have a heat pump, furnace, or air conditioner, it should last for over 10 years as long as it’s properly maintained.

In some cases, we have even seen systems that last 20 years. These systems were very well taken care of. In the time that some homes change their systems twice, some homes only have to do it once over the same span of time. This can save thousands of dollars, and likely a lot of headaches over home comfort as well!

Improved Air Quality

When your HVAC system is serviced, the components of the system are cleaned, and your air filter is changed. This is going to help keep the air in your home clean. If the HVAC system is clean, and the air coming from it is clean, it’s going to lead to a cleaner, healthier breathing environment.

Reduced Chance Of Breakdowns

As part of the service, your system is cleaned and inspected. Your technician will look over all the parts, check the electrical connections, and ensure that everything is working properly and smoothly. This is why we call this “preventative maintenance”. It prevents problems from happening before they sneak up on you, and end up costing you more than it should for a repair!

Safe Operation

HVAC systems use electrical connections and heating elements. This means that they can be dangerous if they aren’t operating the way they should be. During a routine service, we inspect the system and make sure it’s operating safely. If you use a furnace that burns oil or gas, we make sure it’s venting properly, taking carbon monoxide and any other dangerous gases out of your home.

The Maintenance Agreement From Complete Comfort

Signing Up For An HVAC Maintenance Agreement In Southwest Virginia

If you want to make sure your HVAC systems are taken care of, while saving money in the process, take a look into a service plan from Complete Comfort. We are a local, family-owned and operated business. At Complete Comfort, we care about your home, and want to make sure that you are comfortable, and not spending unnecessary money in the process.

Give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or visit our website to learn more about our preventative maintenance program!

How Often Should You Have Your AC Serviced?

Posted on July 15, 2025July 15, 2025 by David Cochran

How Often Should You Have Your AC Serviced?

We recommend that you have your AC serviced once a year, preferably before the really hot weather sets in for the summer. Taking care of your air conditioning system is important for its efficiency, performance, and lifespan. Depending on the age of your system and how much you use it, you may want to have it serviced twice a year, but as for most homes, once is enough and very beneficial.

I’ve been working in Southwest Virginia and North Eastern Tennessee for 15 years now, and I know how brutal the summers can be here. If your air conditioning system isn’t working properly, it could cause big issues, and create a very uncomfortable space to live in. Luckily, I’ve serviced, repaired, and installed hundreds of air conditioners, and know all the ins and outs.

In this article, we’ll tell you a little more about the benefits of AC service, and why you want to schedule it at least once a year. If you would like to have the experts here at Complete Comfort come service your air conditioning system, just give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. One of our air conditioning specialists will be happy to inspect and service your cooling system!

Why Should You Have Your AC System Serviced Once A Year?

Do you ever take your car into the shop for an oil change? Do you ever go to the doctor’s office for an annual checkup? Well, this is the same concept as having your air conditioner serviced yearly as well. Scheduling professional air conditioning service at least once a year will help you get the most out of your system, and keep your home cool.

We’ve seen systems last 20 years with annual service. We’ve also seen systems that die very prematurely because they are never serviced. The point is, having a professional inspect and maintain your HVAC system is how you get the very most out of it.

Here are a few of the most common reasons people schedule annual maintenance for their air conditioning system:

Improved Energy Efficiency

When you have your AC system serviced, it comes along with cleaning the parts, replacing the filter, and making sure the components are working smoothly and properly. This smooth operation and ensuring that all the parts are working well is what helps the system run more efficiently.

Improved efficiency usually results in two things:

Your system uses less energy, leading to lower energy bills
Your system runs better, leading to a cooler, more comfortable home

Reduced Chance Of Breakdowns

During annual maintenance, the technician is going to inspect your system and make sure the components are working properly. They will test your connections, replace any broken parts, and ensure the system is going to work properly when it’s needed.

If you go for years without this service, it could lead to problems building up, and the result is your air conditioner breaking down. This is more likely to happen during the hottest times of the summer, when the AC is working extra hard.

Dealing with a breakdown can be expensive, and also leave your home hot and uncomfortable until it can be fixed. Getting ahead and preventing these breakdowns is the best and most cost-effective way to take care of your AC.

You may also want to consider signing up for a preventative maintenance package. We offer them at a few different levels to match your system to the maintenance package that fits best. These packages help you stay on top of your service schedule, as well as save you money in the long run. Over the lifespan of your AC, investing in a maintenance plan should help you extend its life, and keep it running as efficiently as possible so you don’t have to worry about high energy bills or hot spots in the home.

Lengthen System Lifespan

Your air conditioner should last anywhere between 12-20 years. We’ve seen some that go the full 20, but it’s usually because they are well taken care of. We’ve also seen some that die prior to 10 years, which is also a result of not taking care of the system at all. In order to have your system last as long as it possibly could, having a professional take care of it is the best way to a long AC lifespan!

Improve Indoor Air Quality

Air passes through your HVAC system constantly. With that passing air comes airborne dirt and debris that pushes throughout the system, and into your home. When you have your AC system serviced, that comes with a wiping and cleaning of the components, as well as a filter change. This is going to improve the air quality of your home, and make it a healthier environment.

We still recommend that you change your air filter on your own every few months. This is a simple, inexpensive task that helps keep the air flowing properly, and maintains a healthier living space.

When Should You Have Your System Serviced?

Now that you know a bit more about why you should have your AC system serviced, you should also know the best time of year to have the task performed. We recommend you have your AC serviced in the spring, before the summer heat sets in.

For one, you want your home ready for the heat, rather than having a hot day your AC can’t handle, and having to call in a professional. Having your AC serviced in the spring helps you get ahead of any problems or repairs that may be needed. You also want to make sure that this system isn’t using too much energy to keep the space cool.

For example, if you are running your AC, but the efficiency is below the level it should be, that’s going to lead to you spending more money on energy bills than necessary. If you have your service performed at the beginning of the warm season, you are going to be saving by cutting out the unnecessary energy usage.

The other reason it’s better to have your AC system serviced in the spring is the availability of HVAC contractors. During the summer, HVAC businesses get very busy with people needing repairs and replacements. It’s not so easy to schedule service when it’s convenient for you, and it may take longer for the technician to come out and perform service. During the offseason, there is more availability, and it makes it easier to have your system serviced on your time.

Scheduling Service For Your AC In Southwest Virginia

If you haven’t had your annual AC service performed yet, now is the time to act. Give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or reach out to us online. One of our trained AC experts will be able to inspect your system, perform routine maintenance, and make sure your home is ready for the hot weather.

No matter if it’s the beginning of spring or the middle of the summer, an AC service is going to help improve the performance of your HVAC system. Stay cool and enjoy your summer!

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!

How To Avoid Problems With Your Heating System This Winter

Posted on November 14, 2024March 7, 2025 by Nate Kiser

How To Avoid Problems With Your Heating System This Winter

It’s getting pretty chilly outside, and lots of people in our area are starting to turn their heating systems on. There’s nothing better on a frigid day than walking into your warm and cozy home. Conversely, it’s a pretty bad feeling when your heating system runs into a problem and doesn’t keep your space warm.

There are some steps you can take to help your heating system avoid issues during the winter. Whether you have a furnace, a heat pump, or ductless mini splits, we have a few tips for your heating system.

I’ve been working in the Bristol, VA area for over a decade, and I’ve seen a lot of broken down heating systems. It’s not uncommon for a heating system to break down, as they last for over a decade themselves and experience significant wear and tear. Still, there are things you can do to preserve your heating system, and prevent these breakdowns from happening frequently.

In this article I’ll go over a few of the steps you can take to prevent heating issues in your home. If you would like to speak to a professional, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online!

Scheduling Annual Heating Service Is The Best Way To Avoid Heating Problems

The best way to ensure your heating system is running efficiently is by scheduling a professional heating service. We recommend you have your furnace serviced at least once a year, preferably before the winter cold is here for good.

During routine heating service, a trained HVAC technician will clean and inspect the components of your heating system. They will look at everything from the electrical connections, to the pilot light, your flue system, and your thermostat. During this inspection, they can see if there are parts or components that need to be replaced before they fail. When cleaning the system, they will help prevent some of this normal wear and tear.

Routine heating service will do more than help you avoid problems and repairs being needed. When you have your annual heating service, you see a few more benefits as well:

Improved energy efficiency
Lower energy bills
Longer system lifespan
Improved indoor air quality
Ensures safe operation
Keeps warranty in tact

If you haven’t had your heating system serviced yet this year, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online!

Change Your Air Filter

You should change the air filter in your HVAC system once every 1-3 months. This is a simple task that you can perform on your own. This is also something that can be done during your heating service, but you should change the filter more often than you should have our system serviced. This means you should have a few filters on hand at home to change them yourself.

If you don’t know how to change the filter, we recommend that you:

Ask your technician to show you during a service
Refer to your HVAC system’s manual
Go on YouTube or the manufacturer’s website to find a video that shows you how to do it

Changing the air filter is simple, and something that once you perform once, should have no problem doing it whenever you need to.

Your air filter catches any airborne particles that may pass through your HVAC system. If this filter fills up and gets clogged, it prevents airflow. This can back the air up in your system and cause problems. This will also hurt the indoor air quality of your home.

Air filters are inexpensive, and usually cost between $10-$50. We recommend buying a few and keeping them on hand for when you need to make a swap!

Clear Vents And Ducts

It’s easy to accidentally block a vent if you are moving furniture around. Maybe your child wants to rearrange their bedroom, and in the process they put a bureau in front of a vent. I’ve seen it in plenty of homes, and it’s easy to avoid. Give your vents a little space and make sure they are free to push air into the necessary spaces of your home.

You may also want to have your ductwork cleaned at some point. This is going to clean the air in your home, and also promote improved air flow. It’s very unlikely a vent can become so clogged that airflow is prevented completely. Instead it usually builds to a point where it impedes airflow enough to cause uneven heating, and makes the air dirtier to breathe!

Improve Your Insulation/ Seal Leaks And Windows

If your home is leaking air, it’s going to cause your heating system to work harder than it should. Improving your insulation will help you retain heat, and protect your home from the outside elements. The same goes for sealing your windows and doors. These are projects that may be a bit more expensive, but they last for years. You won’t need to worry about insulation or leaks every year if you take care of them properly.

Years can pass and you will need to make sure your home is still sealed, but this should help keep your home more comfortable, and ease the burden of your heating system.

Heating Service In Bristol, VA

We hope these tips will help you keep the heating system working properly, and keep your home warm and comfortable this winter. If you are looking for help with your heating system in Bristol, VA, or the surrounding towns, give Complete Comfort a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. Our trained technicians can service your heating system, and make sure your home is ready for the winter cold!

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!

5 Reasons To Schedule Heating Service

Posted on September 3, 2024 by Nate Kiser

5 Reasons To Schedule Heating Service

Right now is the time of year you should be scheduling heating service. The summer is on its way out, and before you know it, it’s going to start getting colder. In this article, we are going to go over why you should schedule heating service for your system.

I have been performing regular maintenance on heating systems for years now, and can tell you it’s crucial to getting the most out of your heating system. I’ve seen a lot of systems that are never serviced, and some that have been serviced every year regularly, and let me tell you, there’s a difference. The systems that are never serviced work poorly, and tend to need replacing years before the ones that are maintained yearly.

In this article I’ll tell you a bit more about why you should schedule regular HVAC service for your furnace. If you are looking to schedule heating service in Emory, VA give us a call at (276) 690-9222. Complete comfort specializes in heating service in Emory, VA and the surrounding towns!

Why You Should Schedule Regular Furnace Maintenance

Furnace maintenance is sometimes viewed as an extra cost for homeowners, but the truth is, it saves you money in the long run. Here are some of the most important reasons to schedule furnace maintenance.

Safe Operation

If your heating system burns gas or oil, it can be dangerous if it’s not operating properly. When you burn these fuels, your system creates gasses that can be harmful if breathed in. In particular, carbon monoxide is created when you run your furnace, and it’s exhausted out of a flue system, or a chimney. If there is something wrong with your exhaust system, or there is a crack in your heat exchanger, it could lead to a carbon monoxide leak.

When you schedule regular furnace maintenance, a technician will inspect your system and make sure there are no dangerous leaks. They will inspect the flue system, and the heat exchanger, and make sure everything is working properly.

Even with regular HVAC maintenance, you should still use a carbon monoxide detector. In case there is a leak, this will let you know before it can cause you harm. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas. There is no way you’d know it’s leaking without the help of a detector.

Lower Energy Bills

Your heating bills can be a headache, and with an inefficient heating system, they could rise higher than they should. When your system is tuned up and working efficiently, it’s going to help bring your energy bills down.

Over the lifespan of your HVAC system, a decade plus, it could cost you thousands in unnecessarily high energy bills. Regular maintenance will help your energy bills stay lower and under control.

Longer System Lifespan

Just like any machine, if you have your system taken care of by a professional, it’s going to last longer. Your heating system should last between 10-15 years. If you go years between services, you are likely going to see the system die earlier than it should, years prematurely.

Not to mention the fact that it’s probably not doing a great job even while you are running it.

Think about it like this: If you live in a home for 20-30 years, it could be the difference between buying 2 or 3 heating systems. That’s a big difference in how much you’ll spend on HVAC systems.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

When your system is serviced, it comes with a cleaning of the components, and a change of your air filter. If the system is cleaned, the air coming out of it is going to be cleaner too. This makes for a healthier living environment, great for anyone with breathing problems, or frequently gets sick.

Even after you have your HVAC system serviced, we recommend that you change the air filter once every few months on your own. This will keep the air flowing properly, and keep the air clean and healthy!

Maintain Your Warranty

Almost every new HVAC system comes with a warranty. It gives you some peace of mind when you make a big investment in a new heating or cooling system for your home. Typically, one of the requirements to maintain your warranty is scheduling routine professional maintenance. This helps the manufacturer from having to constantly replace unattended equipment. It also helps you to keep the system in good shape while you have it. Hopefully you never have to use your warranty, but if you do, regular HVAC service will help you keep it valid!

Scheduling Heating Service In Emory, VA

Now that you know a little more about why you should schedule your heating service, now is the time to get it on the books! Give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. Be sure to ask about our maintenance plans. These will help you get the best value when it comes to regular HVAC service!

When Should You Have Your Furnace Serviced?

Posted on August 28, 2024 by Nate Kiser

When Should You Have Your Furnace Serviced?

The summer is starting to wind down, and we know how quickly the cold weather is going to get here. This is why we want to start telling homeowners about the benefits of furnace service.

The best time of year to have your furnace serviced is the fall. Anytime between September and November is when we prefer to perform heating service, and we will tell you a bit more about why.

I’ve been servicing heating systems for over a decade, and can tell you how important it is to have yearly maintenance performed by a professional. It’s a major component of your home, keeping you warm, and also having a major impact on your energy bills. In this article I’ll tell you a little more about why you want your HVAC system serviced every year, and why the fall is the best time of year for heating service.

If you want to schedule your HVAC service now, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us online. Our experts will be able to tune-up your heating system, and make sure your home is ready for the cold weather!

Why Is The Fall The Best Time Of Year For Heating Service?

We think that the fall is the best time of year for heating service. Now that’s not to say you shouldn’t have your system serviced in the but there are a few reasons we like the fall a bit more.

First of all, we prefer to look at the system before you have to put it into regular use. If you have a heating system that uses oil or gas to create heat, we want to make sure it’s operating safely before you use it. Harmful gasses like carbon monoxide are produced when you burn fossil fuels like these, and can be VERY dangerous if they aren’t properly expelled from your home.

We also just want to make sure your system is working properly and efficiently, on top of safely! If your system is running less efficiently than it could be, you are probably paying too much money on your energy bills.

Another reason we like to schedule heating service during the fall is the flexibility of our schedule. During the winter months, we have to deal with a lot more breakdowns and urgent matters. This gives us less time to be flexible for our customers unfortunately. Scheduling in the fall allows you to pick a time slot that works better for you and your schedule!

How Often Should You Have Your Heating System Serviced?

We recommend that you have your heating system serviced at least once a year. Regular service helps you get the most out of your system, and gets ahead of problems before they escalate and become expensive.

If your furnace is 10+ years old, you may want to consider a service at the start of the season, and then one towards the end of the winter after it’s been running for months. This will make sure it’s operating properly and safely.

What Are The Benefits Of Routine Heater Maintenance?

Routine heater maintenance offers a few more benefits than simply having a working heater. When you schedule annual heating maintenance, you will also be doing a few other things:

Improved Energy Efficiency/Lower Energy Bills

One of the most immediate benefits of regular furnace maintenance is improved energy efficiency. When your furnace is clean and well-maintained, it doesn’t have to work as hard to heat your home, which means it uses less energy. This improved energy efficiency is going to lead to lower energy bills. If you are using less energy, you are spending less money!

During a maintenance visit, the technician will check and clean components like the blower motor, heat exchanger, and burners. They will also inspect the ductwork for leaks and ensure that the thermostat is calibrated correctly. All of these small tasks can add up, leading to better energy efficiency, lower energy bills, and a warmer space!

Ensured Safety

Unlike air conditioning, safety is a concern when it comes to your home’s heating system. If your furnace burns gas or oil, you want to make sure that it’s operating safely. Carbon monoxide is produced from a system that uses combustion to produce heat, and then expelled out of your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly in high concentrations.

Routine maintenance includes a thorough inspection of your furnace’s components to ensure that everything is operating safely. The HVAC technician will check for issues like cracks in the heat exchanger, which could allow carbon monoxide to leak into your home. They will clean the components and make sure the pilot light is functioning properly. They will also inspect the flue and ventilation system to ensure that the gasses are being properly expelled outside.

Even with a routine service, you should still have a carbon monoxide detector installed in your home. Because carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, it’s impossible for you to detect on your own. A carbon monoxide detector will let you know if there is a problem.

Better Indoor Air Quality

As your furnace creates warm air, it then pumps it into your ductwork and throughout your home. If the furnace is dirty, the air in your home could be dirty as well. Over time, dust, dirt, and other contaminants can accumulate in your heating system, and if the system isn’t properly cleaned, these irritants can get into your air.

During a maintenance visit, the technician will clean or replace the air filters, which catch a lot of those airborne irritants that make their way into your HVAC system. A technician will also clean the furnace’s internal components, removing any buildup of soot or dirt that could affect air quality. This will help clean the air and make sure you and your family have a healthier living environment.

Longer System Lifespan

Your furnace should last for over a decade. Regular service will help you extend the lifespan of your HVAC system by fixing issues before they escalate, and making sure it’s in good working shape.

Just like taking your car to the mechanic for an oil change, your heating system needs regular check-ups to operate smoothly and efficiently. If you go years without service for your heating system, it could mean replacing your system years prematurely as well.

By addressing small issues during regular maintenance, you can prevent them from escalating into major problems that could cause your system to fail prematurely. This is going to help save money in 3 ways:

Fewer repairs needed
Lower energy bills
Fewer heater replacements needed

Maintain Your Warranty

Many furnace manufacturers require regular professional maintenance as part of their warranty terms. If your furnace is still under warranty, you will likely need to have it serviced by a licensed contractor at least once a year to keep it valid.

Scheduling Routine Furnace Maintenance In Abingdon, VA

If you live in Abingdon, VA, and the surrounding areas, give Complete Comfort a call for regular heating service. We’ll take a look at your heating system and make sure it’s in good working order. We will replace your filter, and make sure your home is ready for the cold weather! Give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or click here to contact us online!

4 Ways To Improve Indoor Air Quality In Abingdon, VA

Posted on February 1, 2024 by Nate Kiser

Until recent years, indoor air quality wasn’t something that was on the top of anyone’s mind. Now, offices, schools, and businesses are doing more and more to improve their indoor air quality. People are finding ways to improve their indoor air quality at home as well.

I have been taking care of heating and air conditioning systems in Abingdon, VA and the surrounding areas for years. During that process, I also look into the home’s air quality. We have installed air purification systems, special air filters, and humidification control as well.

We spend most of our time indoors, breathing the air within our homes, offices, and recreational spaces. This air can have a profound impact on our health, comfort, and overall well-being.

In this article we will go over a few easy steps you can take to improve your air at home, and a few more permanent ones that will keep the air clean and healthy. If you live in the Abingdon, VA area and are looking for a little help with your indoor air quality, give us a call at (276) 690-9222, or contact us right here online.

Why Is Indoor Air Quality Important?

The quality of the air in your home directly affects your health and the comfort in your home. Poor IAQ has been linked to a variety of health issues, ranging from immediate effects like allergies and respiratory issues to long-term consequences such as chronic respiratory diseases and heart problems.

Contaminants like mold, pollen, dust mites, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can accumulate indoors, leading to some of these issues, and making homeowners want more from their indoor air quality. According to the EPA, the common organic pollutants inside can be up to 5 times more prevalent than the air outside. It gives a whole new meaning to “Stepping out for some fresh air”.

If you have someone in your home that has asthma or other breathing problems, the air quality is so important. The cleaner the air is, the better for everyone’s health.

What Can You Do To Improve Your Air Quality?

Improving indoor air quality usually involves a combination of strategies. In the process, you’ll want to reduce indoor pollutants, enhance the ventilation, and maintain optimal humidity levels. There are a few things you can do yourself, and also a few things you could install to clean up the air. Here are four effective ways to improve the air quality in your home or business:

Change Your Air Filter

One of the simplest yet most effective steps to improve indoor air quality is to regularly change the air filters in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. This is an easy task that you can perform on your own. We recommend changing your air filter once every 2-3 months.

Air filters are designed to trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating throughout your home. There are different rated filters for your HVAC system, noted by MERV rating, going from 1-16, 16 being the most effective.

Ask your HVAC technician, but they will likely recommend a filter that is right in the middle of the scale. Sometimes the highest rated filters can restrict airflow, making it a burden on the HVAC system.

Schedule An HVAC Service

When you schedule regular service for your HVAC system, they will clean all the components, dust, dirt, mold, etc. that may have gotten into your HVAC system. A professional HVAC service can ensure that your system is operating efficiently and not contributing to indoor air pollution.

An HVAC service also helps to prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system, and keep it running efficiently. We recommend that you have your HVAC system serviced at least once a year. This will ensure it’s clean, running properly, and keeping the air in your home fresh!

Click Here To Schedule HVAC Service!

Install An Air Purification System

Where air filters catch airborne irritants as they pass through, air purification systems actively clean the air. Air purifiers are designed to remove contaminants from the air in a room or entire home. These devices can be particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions.

Come air purifiers work by drawing in polluted air, filtering out particles, and circulating clean air back into the room. There are others that send little cleaning particles into that air that attack the airborne bacteria and allergens. Some air purifiers use HEPA filters, while others may use activated carbon, ultraviolet light, or ionization to clean the air.

When selecting an air purifier, consider the size of the area you want to purify, the specific pollutants you’re targeting, and the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of the device.

Install Humidity Control

Another aspect of healthy air that is only thought about in the summer is humidity. No one likes it when it’s hot and humid in the summer. It makes the air feel heavy, sticky, and hot. Many people don’t realize that humidity also impacts them in the winter too. Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air, and if it’s too low, it can dry the air out, leading to dry skin, more coughs and colds, and breathing problems. It can also damage your furniture or wooden fixtures and instruments.

The ideal indoor humidity level is between 30% and 50%. To manage humidity, consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and bathrooms, and humidifiers in dry environments, especially during winter months. You can also install humidifiers and dehumidifiers that can be installed right into your HVAC system that can treat the whole home.

Indoor Air Quality Assessments

A good way to learn about the status of your indoor air quality is by having an IAQ assessment performed. This can inform you about the specific pollutants present in your home, and help a contractor to make the right recommendations.

Improving indoor air quality doesn’t exactly happen overnight. It’s a process of assessing the air quality, and figuring out what to do to improve it. Doing some of the things we outlined like changing the air filters, scheduling regular HVAC maintenance, installing air purification systems, and controlling humidity are all steps in the right direction. If you are looking for an indoor air quality expert in Abingdon, VA, give us a call at (276) 690-9222!