The Future of HVAC: Trends to Watch

March 13, 2024

In 2019, the Department of Energy announced new energy efficiency standards for the U.S. that went into effect in 2023. Those included increased SEER minimums, a new SEER2 rating and revised M1 testing methodologies to account for static air pressure. In retrospect, those updates were a herald of things to come. This is an exciting time in HVAC, and these five trends are a big part of the reason why. 1. IoT Connectivity Smart devices are able to communicate with each other in order to accomplish more. But the Internet of Things take this a

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How Smart Thermostats Are a Game Changer For Energy Efficiency

February 15, 2024

Smart thermostats are a game-changer for energy efficiency. They increase comfort, reduce energy waste, and lower energy bills. It’s imperative to understand their energy-saving features to maximize their benefits. 1. Programmable Scheduling The ability to customize a smart thermostat’s schedule is essential for making a house more energy efficient. Users can create personalized temperature profiles that take into account their everyday activities. As a result, you can program your HVAC system to maintain your home at more moderate temperatures when no one is home. Scheduling can change the temperature to coincide with when household members

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A Guide to Better Indoor Air Quality During the Winter

January 10, 2024

Indoor air quality becomes more important as the winter months approach since you will spend more time indoors. Problems like less airflow and more airborne contaminants are common in the winter. Fortunately, there are several ways you can make your home a healthier and cozier place to be. It starts with targeting your home’s indoor air quality. Whole-Home Air Purification Systems There are a variety of whole-house air filtration systems available, each designed to handle a unique set of issues related to indoor air quality. With their combined benefits, the systems provide a comprehensive solution to

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What to Expect When Having High-Efficiency HVAC Equipment Installed

December 14, 2023

According to the United States Department of Energy, heating and cooling your home likely accounts for about 50% of your overall energy use. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint and limit your monthly bills, the best way to start is by upgrading your HVAC system. However, installing high-efficiency HVAC equipment in your Chesapeake, VA, home could prove complex. The following is everything you can expect during this installation and some of the many benefits it will provide: Installing a High-Efficiency Furnace High-efficiency gas-fired furnaces have annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings of 90% to

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Are the Reported Benefits of UV Lights for Improved Indoor Air Quality Fact or Fiction?

November 15, 2023

You may have already come across the idea of using UV lights to enhance indoor air quality. It’s understandable to be skeptical about the effectiveness of such technology, as it may seem like something out of science fiction. UV technology has been around for a long time, dating back to Niels Ryberg Finsen’s Nobel Prize-winning use of UV lights to treat skin infections in 1903. In recent years, UV lights have been used by hospitals, restaurants, and other businesses to sterilize equipment. Studies have shown that ultraviolet light can reduce bacteria and mold by 97%, making it effective in improving

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10 Signs You Need to Repair Your Home Heating System

October 19, 2023

The heating system is vital to keeping your interior comfortable when it is cold outside. Thus, identifying when your system is malfunctioning is essential for scheduling prompt repair services to restore normal functioning. The following are 10 signs you need to repair your home heating system. 1. Strange Noises A low humming sound is the typical sound of an operating heating system. Other unusual sounds, including banging and hissing noises, are a telltale that the system is faulty and needs repair. Broken and loose parts often cause banging noises, whereas hissing sounds result from refrigerant

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How Much To Install a New Furnace in My 2000 Sq Ft Home in Chesapeake, VA?

September 21, 2023

The cost of replacing the furnace in your Chesapeake, VA home is dependent upon multiple factors. Foremost among these are the size of your house and your overall heating needs. Furnaces with higher BTUs and greater heating power typically cost a bit more than heaters that are built to serve smaller areas. If you have a 2,000 sq. ft. home and are gearing up for furnace replacement, the following are several important things that will impact your bill. Your HVAC Air Ducts Replacing a furnace is rarely as easy as pulling an existing unit out and

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My Air Conditioner is Dripping—What Do I Do?

August 16, 2023

If you’ve ever felt the sudden shock of cold water dripping on your head in the middle of summer when you least expect it, then you know that feeling of panic all too well. And while most cases don’t involve a full-on flood in your home, they do usually mean that you have an air conditioner issue that needs attention. 1. Check the Drain Pan and Clear Any Debris The drain pan is part of your air conditioner where condensation collects and is eventually released through the drainage system. When the pan becomes blocked with

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Must-Visit Attractions in the Chesapeake Bay Area

July 17, 2023

At Simmons Heating & Cooling, we have provided trusted HVAC services in Chesapeake since 1964. As a family-owned business deeply rooted in this area, we hold a strong affection for our customers. It brings us great joy to offer them the highest quality HVAC services and maintenance programs. There are lots of great places to visit around the Chesapeake Bay area. Here is a list of some of the best. 1. Experience the Great Chesapeake Bay Loop Embark on a journey exploring the quintessential towns dotted along the Chesapeake Bay. Each town boasts a unique personality and charm of

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Top 5 Ways to Troubleshoot Your HVAC System

June 13, 2023

Being a Chesapeake, VA, homeowner offers freedom and pride, but it also comes with great responsibility. Homeowners face certain responsibilities like keeping their homes in good condition and managing finances. Apart from paying the mortgage, homeowners are responsible for ensuring all systems are functional. You need to make sure the plumbing, electrical, and heating/cooling systems work efficiently to not only protect your investment in your home but keep your family comfortable. Here we offer several HVAC troubleshooting tips for homeowners. 1. Change Air Filters Air filters trap dust, pet dander, pollen, and other air pollutants that

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