Category: Blog

Air Conditioning, Blog

5 Warning Signs Your Air Conditioner Is Low on Refrigerant

5 Warning Signs Your Air Conditioner is Low on Refrigerant

As the summer heat intensifies, your air conditioner becomes your home’s primary defense against high temperatures. But what happens when that comfort begins to falter? If your home feels warmer than usual or your energy bills are creeping upward, your system might be low on refrigerant—a critical substance in the cooling process. Running your air …

Air Conditioning, Blog

Smart Summer Cooling: How to Set Your Thermostat for Comfort and Savings in the South

adjust your thermostat for smart summer cooling

If you’ve ever spent a summer in the south, you know just how essential it is to have a dependable air conditioning system. Even the most efficient HVAC unit can’t shield you from the shock of a sky-high electric bill after a month of nonstop cooling. Thankfully, there are strategies you can adopt to stay …

Air Conditioning, Blog, Maintenance Tips

Common AC Problems and How to Avoid Them This Summer

avoid problems with your air conditioner by scheduling a maintenance call before the hot summer weather

When the heat of summer rolls in, your air conditioner becomes one of the most important appliances in your home or business. A well-functioning AC keeps your space cool, comfortable, and livable—but when something goes wrong, it can quickly turn into an uncomfortable and expensive situation. At Howell-Chase Heating and Air Conditioning, we’ve helped homeowners …

Articles, Blog, Indoor Air Quality, Maintenance Tips

How to Reduce Humidity in Your Home Before Summer Hits

controlling humidity levels in your home

As summer approaches in the South, the combination of high temperatures and intense humidity can make indoor spaces feel sticky, uncomfortable, and downright unbearable. Excess humidity doesn’t just affect comfort levels—it can also lead to mold growth, dust mites, and poor indoor air quality. If you want to keep your home cool, comfortable, and free …

Blog, Maintenance Tips

Preparing Your HVAC System for Storms

prepping HVAC before stormy weather

If you live in the Southern U.S., you know that spring and summer bring more than just heat—they bring storms. From sudden downpours and damaging winds to hail and lightning strikes, severe weather is just part of life in our region. While you may already have a storm kit with flashlights and bottled water ready …

Blog, Technology

Smart Thermostats: Do They Really Save You Money?

smart thermostat - woman using smart phone app to operate her HVAC unit

With rising energy costs and increasing interest in energy-efficient home solutions, many homeowners are considering smart thermostats as a way to cut down on their monthly bills. These high-tech devices promise to optimize heating and cooling, offering convenience and cost savings. But do smart thermostats really save you money? And if so, how? Let’s explore …

Air Conditioning, Blog

When to Replace Your AC Unit: A Guide to Repair vs. Replacement

HVAC service technician checking AC unit using manometer gauge

Your air conditioning system is essential for maintaining a comfortable home, but like all appliances, it won’t last forever. At some point, you’ll face a critical decision: should you repair your unit or replace it entirely? Making the right choice can save you money, improve energy efficiency, and enhance your home’s overall comfort. Below, we’ll …

Blog, Indoor Air Quality, Maintenance Tips

Spring Cleaning for Your Air Ducts: Breathe New Life Into Your Southeastern South Carolina & Northeastern Georgia Home

dirty furnace vents and ductwork can adversely affect your home's air quality

As the days get longer and the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time for a little spring cleaning—starting with your air ducts! Indoor air quality is crucial for maintaining a healthy home, and with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warning that indoor air can be even more polluted than outdoor air, it’s no surprise …

Blog, Maintenance Tips

Spring HVAC Maintenance in Bluffton, South Carolina: Keep Your System Running Efficiently All Season

Heat pump outside of home

As the winter chill fades away and the fresh breeze of spring sets in, homeowners often turn their attention to spring cleaning. However, one essential task that should be at the top of your seasonal to-do list is HVAC maintenance. A well-maintained heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system ensures that your home stays comfortable, …

Blog, Heating, Maintenance Tips, Plumbing

Cold Weather in South Carolina: Stay Warm and Comfortable This Winter

man wearing a coat sitting on a sofa shivering from cold

While South Carolina winters are relatively mild, the chillier months can still bring cold nights and frosty mornings that make a warm home essential. Whether you’re in the Upstate, the Midlands, or closer to the Lowcountry, having a reliable heating system is the key to keeping your family cozy. At Howell-Chase Heating and Air Conditioning …

Blog, Heating

Comprehensive Guide to Effective Furnace Repair

Technician performing effective furnace repair by examining and adjusting components inside a furnace unit, wearing protective gloves and a cap.

A well-functioning furnace is essential for keeping your home warm during the colder months. But when problems arise, knowing how to troubleshoot and address furnace issues can save you time, money, and discomfort. At Howell Chase, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you understand effective furnace repair, identify common issues, and know when to …

Blog, Heating, Maintenance Tips

Preparing Your HVAC System for Winter: Unusual Smells When Turning On the Heat

A woman covering her nose while standing near an HVAC unit, reacting to an unpleasant smell. The image highlights the importance of preparing your HVAC system for winter and addressing unusual smells when turning on the heat for the first time.

As you prepare your home for the colder months, turning on your heating system for the first time can sometimes release unexpected and unpleasant odors. At Howell Chase, we want to help you understand what these unusual smells mean and how to address them, ensuring your HVAC system is ready to keep you comfortable all …

Blog

Energy-Saving HVAC Tips to Lower Your Utility Bills

female hands hold a pink piggy bank and puts a coin into the top - saving money on HVAC costs

Keeping your home comfortable while managing utility costs can be challenging, but optimizing your HVAC system can make a big difference. At Howell-Chase Heating and Air Conditioning, we’ve compiled a list of practical energy-saving HVAC tips to help you get the most out of your HVAC system while lowering your monthly bills. 1. Regularly Change …

Blog, Technology

Comparing Thermostats: Manual, Programmable, and Smart

hand adjusting thermostat knob

Comparing Thermostats: Manual vs. Programmable vs. Smart Are you looking for a new thermostat? Start that buying journey here with this blog! When you’re trying to find the right type of thermostat for your space, there are essential things to consider. Choosing the right thermostat makes a big difference in comfort levels, energy efficiency, and …

Blog

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an HVAC Company

man and woman looking at papers making an informed decision

Keeping your home or business comfortable and energy efficient starts with finding the right team of HVAC professionals to partner with. There may be a lot of options popping up from your Google search, but how can you be sure you’re making the best selection for your needs? At Howell-Chase Heating and Air Conditioning, we …