The Truth About Closing Bedroom Doors and HVAC Airflow Many homeowners wonder whether they should keep their bedroom doors open or closed when running their HVAC system. On the surface, it seems simple — closing doors might help you keep rooms warmer or cooler, while leaving them open allows airflow to circulate. But HVAC airflow …
Category: Blog
Don’t Let a Broken Furnace Ruin Christmas – Holiday HVAC Tips
When the holidays roll around, we picture warm homes, glowing lights, family gatherings, and the unmistakable comfort that comes with the winter season. But nothing can disrupt that cozy holiday magic faster than a furnace that decides to fail right when you need it most. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply trying to enjoy a …
Why Your Heating Bill Spikes in December: Southern Home Energy Efficiency Tips
As the holiday season approaches, many Southern homeowners notice an unwelcome surprise: a spike in their heating bills. Even in regions with milder winters, December brings cooler temperatures, longer nights, and increased energy usage, all of which contribute to higher utility costs. Fortunately, understanding the causes of these increases and taking proactive steps can help …
Why You Should Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors Before Winter
As cooler weather moves in, homeowners begin relying more heavily on their heating systems, fireplaces, gas appliances, and water heaters. While these systems keep your home warm and comfortable, they also increase the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure during the winter months. Carbon monoxide is one of the most silent and dangerous home hazards. …
Why Your Heat Smells Funny When You Turn It On
When the temperatures start to dip and homeowners switch their HVAC systems from cooling to heating, it’s common to notice unexpected smells coming from the vents. And while some of these odors are nothing to worry about, others can signal maintenance issues or safety hazards that shouldn’t be ignored. Understanding what’s normal — and what …
Mold in Air Vents: Causes, Cleaning, and Prevention Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
If you’ve ever noticed a musty odor when your AC kicks on, you’re not imagining it. That damp, earthy scent often points to mold inside the HVAC system—clinging to vent covers, lining ducts, or growing in the condensate pan where moisture collects. Because your system circulates air through the entire home, spores can spread quickly, …
The Fall Energy Tune‑Up Checklist for Southern Homeowners
Fall in the South brings unique challenges: warm, humid afternoons can still require cooling, while early cold fronts deliver chilly nights. That seasonal swing places extra stress on your HVAC system. A well-planned fall energy tune-up helps your system handle this dance more efficiently, extends equipment life, and lowers energy costs. Here’s your ultimate, region-specific …
When to Switch from AC to Heat: The Southern Homeowner’s Fall Transition Guide
As leaves begin to hint at fall and the air takes on a crisp edge, Southern homeowners face one of the trickiest HVAC questions: When do I stop running air conditioning and start heating? In South Carolina, fall can bring dramatic temperature swings — warm days followed by chilly nights. Making the wrong switch too …
Understanding MERV Ratings: What They Are and Why They Matter
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable and your air clean, your HVAC system does a lot of work behind the scenes. From heating and cooling to filtering the air you breathe, every part of the system plays an important role. One key factor in how effectively your system filters air is the MERV …
September Weather Swings Make HVAC Maintenance a Must in the South
September in the South is a season of transition. While summer’s intense heat may start to ease, lingering humidity and unpredictable weather patterns can keep your HVAC system working overtime. Homeowners across Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, and South Carolina often find themselves switching from cooling to heating in the same week. These temperature swings …
How Heat Affects Airflow, Filtration, and Comfort
Introduction During the hot, humid summers typical of the South, soaring outdoor temperatures can have a significant impact on indoor air quality (IAQ). While many homeowners focus on keeping their homes cool, it’s easy to overlook how the intense heat and sticky humidity affect airflow, filtration, and overall indoor comfort. Understanding the connection between Southern …
The Importance of Regular Air Filter Changes for Your HVAC System
In South Carolina’s hot, humid climate, having a well-functioning air conditioning system isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. While there are many components that contribute to the performance of your HVAC system, one of the simplest and most impactful maintenance tasks is changing your air filter regularly. Often overlooked, this quick and affordable task plays …
Why Keeping Your Vents Open Matters for Home Comfort and Efficiency
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient, your HVAC system does a lot of heavy lifting. But did you know that something as simple as a blocked or closed vent can undo much of that hard work? Whether you’re trying to lower your energy bills or just want a consistent temperature throughout …
Stay Cool & Keep Your AC Running Strong During the Heat Wave
The South is no stranger to scorching summers, but when a heat wave hits, it can feel like stepping into an oven every time you walk outside. While you can’t change the weather, you can take steps to stay safe, comfortable, and help your air conditioner work more efficiently through the extreme heat. Whether you’re …
Why Is My A/C System So Loud? Understanding the Causes and Solutions
Living in the South, we rely on our air conditioners almost year-round. With high humidity and soaring summer temperatures, your A/C is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. But when your air conditioner starts making loud or unusual noises, it can be disruptive, irritating, and even a sign of a bigger issue. At Howell-Chase Heating …

