5 HVAC Maintenance Steps to Take Before Summer Ends

When the summer heat is at its peak here in Sparta, NC, your air conditioner becomes more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. So what happens when your AC suddenly stops working in the middle of a heat wave? First: don’t panic. There are steps you can take to stay safe, troubleshoot the issue, and get your system back up and running as quickly as possible. Here’s what to do if your AC quits when you need it most: 1. Check the Basics First Before assuming the worst, do a quick check: Thermostat Settings – Make sure it's set to "cool" and the temperature is lower than the current room temp. Circuit Breaker – A tripped breaker is a common culprit. Reset it if needed. Air Filter – A clogged filter can cause your AC to overheat and shut down. Change it if it looks dirty. Outdoor Unit – Look for debris, ice buildup, or signs of damage around your outdoor condenser. These simple fixes could get your system running again without the need for a service call. 2. Stay Safe & Cool Indoors If your AC still isn't working and the temperature’s climbing, your health and safety come first: Close blinds/curtains to block out sunlight. Use fans to circulate air and create a cooling breeze. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Limit heat-producing appliances like ovens and dryers. Head to cooler areas—a basement (if available), a friend’s home, or a local cooling center. 3. Don’t Wait—Call a Local Expert When your AC goes out in the heat, time is critical. At Billings Heating & Cooling, we offer fast, reliable AC repair throughout Alleghany County and surrounding areas. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and repair most issues on the spot. 👉 Call us at 336-372-4790 or Schedule Service Online to get a technician on the way. 4. Ask About Temporary Cooling Options If we can't fix your system right away (like if you need a major part or full replacement), we can help you explore: Portable AC units or window units as temporary relief Emergency service prioritization for vulnerable homes with children or seniors Flexible financing options if a system replacement is needed unexpectedly 5. Prevent It From Happening Again Once your AC is back up and running, consider a maintenance plan. Regular tune-ups can: Prevent breakdowns during extreme heat Extend the life of your system Improve energy efficiency and lower bills Ask us about our Seasonal AC Maintenance Program to keep your unit running strong all summer long. Trust Your Local Cooling Experts in Sparta, NC At Billings Heating & Cooling, we’ve been keeping homes comfortable in the High Country for over [XX] years. When your AC quits during a heat wave, you don’t have to face it alone. We’re here to get you cool—and keep you that way. 📍 Serving Sparta, Laurel Springs, Glade Valley, and surrounding areas

As summer rolls into the mountains of Sparta, NC, the days are getting longer—and hotter. While many of us look forward to sunshine and backyard cookouts, nothing puts a damper on summer fun like an air conditioner that’s not keeping up. The last thing you want is for your AC to quit on the hottest day of the year. At Billings Heating & Cooling, we know how important it is to have a reliable cooling system when the heat rolls in. Here’s how to tell if your air conditioner is ready to take on a Sparta summer—or if it’s time for a little TLC. 1. Is Your AC Blowing Warm Air? If your air conditioner is running but not cooling your home properly, it could be a sign of a refrigerant issue, dirty coils, or a failing compressor. Don’t ignore it—warm air from your vents is one of the first signs your AC needs attention. 2. Is It Making Strange Noises? Banging, grinding, or rattling noises can point to loose or broken parts inside your AC unit. A well-maintained system should run quietly. If it sounds more like a lawnmower than an air conditioner, it’s time to call in the pros. 3. Have You Changed Your Air Filter? A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow, make your system work harder, and reduce indoor air quality. We recommend changing your filter every 1–3 months—especially during peak cooling season. 4. How’s the Airflow? Weak airflow can indicate a problem with your ductwork, blower motor, or air filter. Uneven cooling throughout your home is a clear sign that something isn’t working as it should. 5. Is Your Thermostat Working Properly? If your home isn’t cooling to the temperature you’ve set, the issue might not be with your AC unit at all—it could be your thermostat. A quick calibration or upgrade to a smart thermostat can make a big difference in comfort and efficiency. 6. When Was Your Last Maintenance Visit? Preventive maintenance is key to keeping your AC running smoothly all summer long. A professional tune-up can catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs and ensure your system is running at peak efficiency. Schedule Your AC Tune-Up Today At Billings Heating & Cooling, we offer expert air conditioning maintenance, repair, and installation services right here in Sparta, NC. Whether your system needs a quick fix or a full replacement, we’re here to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. Don’t wait for a breakdown—call us today to schedule your summer AC check-up! 📞 Call Billings Heating & Cooling at (336) 372-4790 🌐 Visit us online to schedule service

As winter fades and warmer days start rolling into the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s the perfect time to schedule your spring HVAC tune-up. At Billings Heating & Cooling , we often get asked if seasonal maintenance is really necessary—and the answer is a resounding yes, especially if you're looking to save money in the long run. Here’s why investing in a spring HVAC tune-up is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make as a homeowner in Sparta, NC. 1. Improve Energy Efficiency Over time, dust, dirt, and debris collect inside your HVAC system, making it work harder to cool your home. When your system isn’t running at peak efficiency, it consumes more energy—which means higher utility bills. A spring tune-up includes cleaning coils, replacing filters, and checking refrigerant levels to ensure your unit is running smoothly and efficiently. ✅ Efficient systems use less power, which directly translates into lower monthly energy bills. 2. Avoid Expensive Repairs During a tune-up, our experienced technicians inspect every part of your HVAC system for signs of wear and tear. By catching small issues early—like a worn belt or a loose connection—we can fix them before they turn into major, costly repairs. ✅ Preventive maintenance helps you avoid the surprise of a mid-summer breakdown (and the big bill that comes with it). 3. Extend the Lifespan of Your HVAC System Just like your car, your HVAC system needs regular maintenance to keep running reliably year after year. Tune-ups reduce stress on your system’s components and keep everything in good working order. In fact, routine maintenance can add several years to the life of your unit. ✅ Replacing an HVAC system is a major investment—why not delay that cost as long as possible? 4. Maintain Warranty Coverage Many manufacturers require proof of annual maintenance to keep your HVAC system’s warranty valid. If you skip tune-ups, you could be on the hook for repair or replacement costs that might otherwise be covered under warranty. ✅ A quick spring check-up could save you thousands if something goes wrong later. 5. Enjoy Better Indoor Comfort A well-maintained HVAC system doesn’t just save money—it also keeps your home more comfortable. Spring tune-ups ensure your system is ready to handle the demands of Sparta’s hot and humid summer days, delivering consistent cooling when you need it most. ✅ No more uneven temperatures, weak airflow, or stuffy rooms. Schedule Your Spring Tune-Up Today with Billings Heating & Cooling At Billings Heating & Cooling, we’re proud to help homeowners in Sparta, NC and surrounding areas save money and stay comfortable year-round. Our spring HVAC tune-ups are thorough, affordable, and designed to keep your system running at its best. 👉 Don’t wait until your AC gives you trouble this summer—schedule your spring tune-up today! Call us at 336-372-4790 or schedule online to book your appointment.

Summer in Sparta, NC can be downright brutal, and when the heat cranks up, your air conditioner becomes more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. But what happens when your AC starts showing signs of trouble just when you need it most? At Billings Heating & Cooling, we’ve seen too many families get caught off guard by an AC unit that gives out in the middle of a heatwave. Don’t let that be you! Here are the top signs your AC may not survive the summer—and what to do about it. 1. Weak Airflow If the air coming out of your vents feels weak or isn’t circulating properly, it could be a sign of a failing compressor or blocked ductwork. Either way, your AC won’t be able to keep up with the rising temps. Pro tip: If airflow is inconsistent from room to room, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection. 2. Strange Noises Your AC should hum—not clang, rattle, or screech. Unusual noises can mean anything from a loose part to a failing motor. Ignoring these sounds can lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems. 3. Warm Air Instead of Cool If your AC is blowing warm air, first check your thermostat settings. If everything looks good there and you’re still not getting cool air, you could be dealing with a refrigerant leak or compressor issue. 4. High Humidity Indoors Air conditioners are designed to regulate indoor humidity as well as temperature. If your home feels sticky even with the AC running, your system may be struggling to keep up—or it could be on its last leg. 5. Sky-High Energy Bills A sudden spike in your energy bill could mean your AC is working overtime to produce the same results. An aging or inefficient system may need a tune-up—or a full replacement. 6. Frequent Repairs If you’ve had to call for AC service more than once or twice already this year, it might be time to consider whether your system is worth saving. Constant breakdowns are a sure sign that your unit is wearing out. 7. AC Is 10+ Years Old Most air conditioners are built to last around 10–15 years with proper maintenance. If yours is nearing that range and showing any of the signs above, it may not survive another Shelby summer. Don’t Sweat It—Call Billings Heating & Cooling Catching these issues early can help you avoid a mid-summer meltdown. Whether you need a quick repair, seasonal maintenance, or a full system replacement, Billings Heating & Cooling has your back. We’ve been keeping Sparta cool since 1983, and we’re here to help your family stay comfortable all season long. 📞 Call us today at (336) 372-4790 or schedule service online to make sure your AC is summer-ready!

As the days get warmer and the chill of winter fades away, it’s the perfect time to ensure your HVAC system is ready for the change in seasons. At Billings Heating & Cooling in Sparta, NC, we understand the importance of a well-maintained system to keep your home comfortable year-round. Here are some essential spring HVAC maintenance tips to help you prepare your system for the warmer months ahead. 1. Change the Air Filter One of the easiest and most effective maintenance tasks you can do is replace your HVAC system’s air filter. Over time, filters become clogged with dust, dirt, and allergens, which can reduce airflow and strain the system. A clean air filter not only ensures your system runs efficiently but also improves your indoor air quality. Be sure to replace your filter every 1–3 months, especially during the spring when pollen levels are high. 2. Clean the Coils Both the evaporator and condenser coils in your HVAC unit can collect dirt and debris over time, reducing the efficiency of your system. Clean the coils regularly to maintain optimal performance. If you’re unsure how to clean them safely, our team at Billings Heating & Cooling can handle it for you. Dirty coils can cause your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills. 3. Check the Ductwork Leaky ducts can cause your HVAC system to lose efficiency and increase your energy costs. Inspect the ducts for any signs of wear, gaps, or blockages, especially after the winter months. Sealing leaks and clearing obstructions will ensure the air circulates properly, keeping your home comfortable without overworking the system. 4. Test the Thermostat A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent your HVAC system from operating efficiently. Test your thermostat before the warmer weather sets in to ensure it’s properly regulating your home’s temperature. If your system is outdated or not responding correctly, it might be time to consider an upgrade. A smart thermostat can provide more control over your energy usage and comfort. 5. Inspect the Condensate Drain Your HVAC system’s condensate drain removes excess moisture created during cooling. If the drain is clogged, it could lead to water damage or system malfunctions. Clear any blockages and ensure the drain is flowing freely to prevent any issues during the warmer months. 6. Schedule Professional Maintenance While there are several tasks you can do yourself, scheduling a professional tune-up is essential. A certified technician from Billings Heating & Cooling can perform a thorough inspection of your system, check for potential issues, and ensure everything is functioning properly. Regular maintenance helps prolong the lifespan of your HVAC system and ensures it operates at peak efficiency. 7. Examine Insulation Proper insulation is essential for maintaining a comfortable home and maximizing energy efficiency. Check the insulation around your HVAC ducts and in areas such as attics and basements. Inadequate insulation can lead to energy loss, forcing your HVAC system to work harder and driving up your energy bills. 8. Clean the Outside Unit For homes with central air conditioning systems, it's important to clean the outdoor condenser unit. Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from around the unit to ensure proper airflow. Trim any nearby shrubs or plants that could obstruct the system’s ventilation. Preparing your HVAC system for spring doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these simple tips and scheduling professional maintenance with Billings Heating & Cooling, you can ensure your system is ready to handle the warmer weather. Regular maintenance not only enhances system efficiency but also helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. If you need assistance with HVAC spring maintenance in Sparta, NC, our team is here to help— contact us today to schedule your service! To learn more about our professional heating and cooling maintenance service, check out our maintenance service page today.

As the temperatures start to drop in Sparta, NC, ensuring your HVAC system is ready for winter is essential to keep your home warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient. At Billings Heating & Cooling, we know how important it is to have a reliable heating system during the cold months. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of essential winter HVAC maintenance tips to help you stay cozy all season long! 1. Replace Your Air Filters One of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep your HVAC system running smoothly is to replace your air filters regularly. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder and use more energy. We recommend changing your filters every 1-3 months, especially during the winter when your heating system is working overtime. 2. Check Your Thermostat Make sure your thermostat is functioning properly and set to a comfortable temperature. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, set it to lower the temperature while you’re asleep or away from home to save on energy costs. 3. Inspect and Clean Your Vents and Ductwork Blocked or dirty vents and ducts can reduce your HVAC system's efficiency and cause uneven heating. Make sure vents are open and unobstructed, and consider having your ductwork professionally cleaned to remove dust and debris. 4. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up Routine maintenance is key to preventing unexpected breakdowns. During a professional tune-up, our team at Billings Heating & Cooling will inspect your system, clean components, check for leaks, and ensure everything is operating efficiently. 5. Seal Drafts and Insulate Your Home Even the best HVAC system can struggle to keep your home warm if there are drafts or poor insulation. Check around windows and doors for leaks, and use weather stripping or caulk to seal any gaps. Proper insulation can significantly reduce your heating costs. 6. Monitor Your Energy Bills A sudden spike in your energy bills can indicate that your HVAC system is working harder than it should be. If you notice an increase, it might be time for a maintenance check or to consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient system. 7. Test Your Carbon Monoxide Detector Since your heating system burns fuel, it’s important to test your carbon monoxide detectors regularly. This small step can help keep your family safe during the heating season. Stay Warm with Billings Heating & Cooling! By following these essential winter HVAC maintenance tips, Sparta homeowners can enjoy a warm and worry-free winter. If you need a professional inspection, repair, or a new heating system installation, don’t hesitate to contact Billings Heating & Cooling. Our experienced team is here to help you stay comfortable no matter how cold it gets outside. Call us today to schedule your winter HVAC tune-up! Check out our services page to learn more about how we can keep your Sparta, NC home warm and cozy all winter long.

As the temperature slowly starts to increase here in Sparta, North Carolina, people are starting to use their air conditioners more and more each day. The official start of summer is approaching fast and there is no better time than now to have your annual air conditioning tune-up. Make sure you are doing everything you can to be ready and stay comfortable for the upcoming heat and humidity that we know will arise here in the greater Sparta, NC area. Maintaining your cool and comfort this summer is important, but there are also other benefits in sticking to your preventative HVAC maintenance schedule. Increase System Lifespan The average lifespan of a well maintained air conditioner is around 12-15 years. With that being said, your AC unit will run better and last longer with regular preventative maintenance. Unfortunately, many heating and cooling systems break down or need regular repairs simply because they have not been properly taken care of and have neglected maintenance. Think about your AC unit like your car – they both need regular check-ups and maintenance to keep running safely and efficiently. Improve Energy Efficiency Regular HVAC system maintenance ensures that everything is running properly. This means that your unit is running efficiently which in turn, saves you money. Preventative maintenance appointments include cleaning, checking for any broken parts, checking refrigerant, etc. These are all things that you may not see but they can greatly decrease your AC efficiency when not addressed. A clean, well maintained unit will cost less to operate than one that is not. Improve Air Quality Finally, preventative maintenance can help to improve your indoor air quality. What many homeowners tend to neglect since it’s not something they can directly see is their indoor air quality. The quality of the air we breathe in matters. Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate around your unit’s components and cages which can make their way into the air that your unit blows into your home. Staying on top of your regular AC maintenance can help to prevent poor indoor air quality and help to improve your quality of life and well-being. Ensuring that your air conditioner is in great shape heading into the summertime is important if you want to stay cool and comfortable here in the greater Sparta, NC area. Do you even remember the last time you had an AC tune-up? Now is the perfect time to call or email us for more information on getting your AC unit prepped to tackle the upcoming heat. Billings Heating & Cooling is always ready to bring comfort to your home. Give us a call today to learn more!

If you aren’t in the heating and air conditioning world, it’s extremely easy to forget about your HVAC system. It’s even common for the majority of homeowners to only think about their system when it breaks down on them or stops functioning the way it should. Well do you know what one of the biggest causes of system failures and complications is? You guessed it, dirty and clogged air filters. What are Air Filters? Your air filters have on primary job and that is so clean the air that circulates through your heating and cooling system. Air filters trap and hold many different types of pollutants and contaminants that could negatively impact your health and your comfort. This filtration occurs when expended air is brought back into your HVAC equipment to be distributed again. This air is forced through your filters and you filters remove the mold, dust, pollen, pet dander, etc. from the air. What Happens When You Don’t Change Your Air Filters? When your air filters are not regularly changed, they can become clogged from the buildup of the pollutants and contaminants that stick to the filters. Of course air filters are designed to pick up these contaminants however, they are not invincible and require regular change outs. When they are clogged, the can not only no longer trap contaminants and pollutants floating through your air, they also create multiple problems for your entire heating and cooling system such as: Increase in Utility Bill – With clogged filters, air can no longer easily flow through your HVAC system. This puts unnecessary stress and wear and tear on your system because your HVAC equipment is now having to work even harder to distribute air where it’s needed. Because your equipment is working overtime for you, your utility bills will continue to increase. Decrease in Comfort – Like we mentioned before, clogged filters block the air in your HVAC system from flowing the way it should and at the rate it should. This means that the cool or warm air that your heating and air conditioning system is working hard to provide will not get to where it is needed and your overall home comfort will decrease. Health Concerns – Because clogged filters can no longer trap contaminants like clean ones can, those pollutants end up back in the air that everyone in your home is breathing. Poor indoor air quality poses many health concerns including: headaches, itchy throat and eyes, fatigue, dizziness, coughing, difficulty breathing, and more. If you are interested in learning more about the dangerous effects of neglecting your air filters, give Billings Heating & Cooling a call today! We can provide you with the indoor air quality solutions that your Sparta, North Carolina home deserves!

Spring has officially sprung here in Sparta, North Carolina! That means that the summer heat and humidity is going to be here before we know it (and probably before we are ready for it). Even though it’s hard to believe that summer vacations are approaching so quickly, we need to start taking care of our HVAC system to ensure that it’s prepared for the weather. There are a few things you can do on your own to ensure that your HVAC system is locked and loaded before the heat arrives. Below are five tips to ensure your comfort this spring and summer. 1. Change Your Filters You should already be in the habit of changing your air filters every season, if not more frequently, but the beginning of spring is an important time to do so. A lot of dirt and debris are collected on your air filters in the winter time thanks to the blustering wind blowing things around more frequently. Dirt, debris, pollutants, etc. can clog your air filters which hinders your systems air flow. Change out your filters with new, fresh, clean ones to improve your HVAC efficiency and your home comfort. 2. Invest in a Programmable Thermostat If you haven’t invested in a smart or programmable thermostat yet, what are you waiting for? Now is the time to do so before the warm weather truly hits and your HVAC contractor is swamps with service calls. A programmable thermostat allows you to set a heating and cooling schedule for your home so you can improve your comfort and decrease your energy bills. Give Billings Heating and Cooling today to learn more about our thermostat installation services and thermostat products. 3. Clean Your Vents & Your Unit Keeping your vents clean and clear is essential in keeping your home feeling cool this spring and summer. If anything is blocking your vents, like furniture, plants, curtains, etc., it can block the cool air from coming through your vents. Do you and your home a favor and dust off your vents and clear the area around it. Additionally, you should do the same for your outdoor unit. Lightly dusting your unit off will help improve your indoor air and improve the unit’s efficiency. 4. Check for Leaks & Insulate This is an important but often overlooked step. It’s imperative that you check for any leaks in your home and insulate when needed. Things like your windows, doors, attics, etc. can leak and let in the outdoor air. When this happens, your home loses the coolness it once had thanks to your AC unit and gains warmth from the spring and summer air. Walk around your home to ensure you feel no leaky spots in your insulation. 5. Schedule Professional AC Maintenance When you’ve done everything that you possibly can on your home, there is one more thing you can and should do. Call Billings Heating and Cooling to schedule your routine AC maintenance check-up. This is the only thing you can do to ensure that your system is 100% ready and prepared to tackle the upcoming warmth. Call us today to schedule your next HVAC appointment!