PECO Heating & Cooling, Author at PECO Heating & Cooling

Author: PECO Heating & Cooling

How To Most Efficiently Use Your Air Conditioner

Posted on by PECO Heating & Cooling

How To Most Efficiently Use Your Air Conditioner

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As temperatures rise and energy costs soar, it’s time to unlock the secrets of running your air conditioner like a pro. With a few simple tips and strategies, you can unleash the full potential of your cooling system, slash energy consumption, prevent inconvenient breakdowns, and watch those utility bills shrink—all while staying blissfully comfortable!

Here’s what you can do to get your AC running as efficiently as possible:

Set It and Forget It

When you’re hot and sweaty, the temptation to tinker with the thermostat is strong. However, it’s best to find a temperature that’s tolerable for you and stick with it. Whether that’s 75 degrees or 82 degrees, once you’ve settled on your ideal setting, resist the urge to adjust it. Cranking your AC down to 60 degrees won’t cool your home any faster than your preferred setting of 75 degrees, so let your air conditioner work its magic at a consistent setting.  

Embrace the Power of Curtains & Blinds

During warm, sunny days, keep your curtains and blinds drawn. Sunlight streaming into your home, even indirectly, can turn up indoor temperatures faster than you can say “heatwave.” Blocking out the sun’s rays will prevent your home from becoming a sauna and give your hardworking AC system a break. 

Use Fans to Keep the Air Circulating

Fans aren’t just budget-friendly—they’re also an incredibly effective way to cool down any room. Ceiling fans, floor fans, and even small desktop fans can work wonders by circulating the air and bringing down temperatures. Even better, if you need some instant relief from the heat, you can position fans to blow on you directly. You may even find that with your fans in action, you can adjust your air conditioner to a warmer setting. 

Banish Hot Air

When it comes to cooling your home, you don’t want to counteract your AC’s efforts by inadvertently adding more heat to your living space. If you’re cooking, make sure to use the exhaust fan to whisk away steam, smoke, and heat. If you don’t have an exhaust fan, you can use your trusty floor fan to move hot air away from the kitchen.  

Use a Dehumidifier

High humidity can turn even moderate temperatures into a sticky, uncomfortable ordeal. Fortunately, a dehumidifier can help make warm temperatures feel less oppressive. You might even discover that you can dial up your AC to a warmer temperature or use it less frequently when you combine your dehumidifier with floor and ceiling fans. 

Give Your Outdoor AC Unit Some Shade

Although placing your outdoor AC unit on the north side of your home is optimal, it’s not always feasible. If your unit is located in a sunny location, consider planting trees or shrubs strategically around it to provide some natural shade. This will shield your unit from the scorching South Carolina sun and help it operate more efficiently. Not only will this keep your unit cooler, but it will also prolong its lifespan and reduce energy consumption. 

Save the Evenings for Chores

Cooking, using the dishwasher, and doing laundry all generate heat—so why not save them until later in the day when temperatures have dropped? By shifting these chores to the cooler evening hours, you’ll not only keep your home pleasantly cool but also potentially save money on your electric bill. With summer peak-hour electricity rates, doing your chores after the sun goes down can also help you avoid higher charges. 

Clean Your Filters

The simple act of cleaning or changing your filters can work wonders for your AC system. Clogged filters force your system to work harder, leading to unnecessary strain and potential breakdowns. By keeping the filters clean, your air conditioner can operate smoothly and effortlessly, resulting in a cooler home with minimal energy expenditure. 

A common misunderstanding of central AC system

It’s often thought: “If you’re not home or certain areas of your house are unoccupied, there’s no need to waste energy cooling them so close the vents in that room” OR “Only use the AC when you’re home turning it off when you are away”  

Seems to make sense….right…this is a common mistake that can cost more money, add stress to your AC system and possibly introduce mold into your home. The duct system in your home is designed for your AC system to allow the proper air flow and capacity of your system.  If you purposely shut off that air flow you can risk freezing your coils (which leads to future leaks) or cause refrigerant problems for your compressor. Your HVAC system will still use the same energy whether vents are closed or not.   Since ducts are designed for specific air flow, shutting the vents or door to a room will not give you more air in the other spaces.

Turning your system off when you are away will cause the entire contents of your home to reach higher or lower than normal temperatures.  When you return home to a house that is 8+ degrees off your desired setting and turn on your AC, you will not feel the effects of the heating or cooling until your furniture, walls, floors, ceiling, etc. in your home reaches that temperature first.  This means your system will be running continuously for hours….and typically you’re tempted to set it lower than you want hoping it will change temperature faster. Setting it outside your normal temperature range will not speed up the process.

Set it and forget it is best….or adjust the range within 3 degrees of what you like, but not more.

Contact PECO Heating & Cooling For All Your Air Conditioning Needs

Whether you need AC maintenance or repairs, or you’d like to upgrade to a more efficient system, PECO Heating and Cooling is here to help you stay cool all summer long. Our HVAC experts offer a wide range of services, from checking freon pressure and testing electrical systems to repairing electrical and plumbing issues, replacing water heaters, and installing air quality systems. To protect your HVAC investment and ensure optimal performance, we also offer maintenance service plans that include regular inspections, cleanings, and discounts on repairs.

Don’t let inefficient cooling get you down—contact PECO Heating & Cooling today at (864) 639-2424!

Is a Backup Generator Worth the Investment?

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Is a Backup Generator Worth the Investment?

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Are you having trouble justifying the expense of a backup generator? You’re not alone! Many homeowners shy away from purchasing a backup generator because they view it as an unnecessary expense. While it’s true that a backup generator can be a significant investment, the benefits far outweigh the cost. If you’re still on the fence, here are some compelling reasons you should consider investing in a backup generator. 

Whole-Home Backup Generators Vs. Portable Generators

Portable generators can be very convenient if you only want to power a few items, such as lights and small appliances, but they simply can’t provide enough power for essential systems, like electric heating, cooling, and water pumps. Permanent backup generators, however, are the ultimate solution for uninterrupted power to your entire home during an outage.

Portable generators also need to be set up before you can use them, which can be especially inconvenient if you’re away from home during a power outage. A backup generator is hard-wired to your home’s electrical system, so it’s always on standby and ready to take over once your main power goes out. 

Powering Essential Systems

Although some consider backup generators a luxury item, they can be lifesavers in many ways, from keeping you warm and comfortable during a brutal winter storm outage to powering medical devices that are critical for your health. Backup generators can also keep the essential systems in your home running, such as sump pumps, septic lift stations and water pumps—and prevent costly damage from occurring. 

Keeping You Connected and Powering Non-Essential Items

Picture this: a natural disaster strikes and the power goes out for days. Your phone’s battery is running out, the food in your fridge is spoiling, and the silence and darkness in your home are making you a little stir-crazy. This is where a backup generator comes in handy. 

A backup generator can also provide a connection to the outside world by powering your electronics. You can keep up with the news, communicate with loved ones, and even watch a movie. Plus, it can keep your home security system operational. Even though many of these systems have battery backups, battery power could run out during an extended power outage. 

Adding Value to Your Home

Not only will having a backup generator make your home more attractive to potential buyers, but it can also increase your property value. In fact, many real estate experts agree that homes with backup generators can sell for up to 5% more than similar homes without them—especially in areas that are prone to natural disasters like severe winter storms and hurricanes. 

But the benefits don’t stop there; insurance companies also recognize the value of backup generators. Many insurers offer discounts on premiums for homes that have backup generators due to the reduced risk of damage caused by power outages. 

Maintaining Your Quality of Life

When the power goes out, life can suddenly become challenging, especially for families with children, older adults, or individuals with medical conditions. However, with a backup generator, you can maintain your quality of life, whether it’s staying warm or cool, keeping your food fresh, or powering up medical equipment.

Backup generators can also help boost your morale and keep your spirits up during extended outages. You can listen to music, watch your favorite TV shows, or have enough light to play a board game with your family. Sometimes it’s the little things that make a big difference in stressful situations!

Expert Backup Generator Installation and Maintenance

Investing in a backup generator is a wise decision that can give you peace of mind and help you and your loved ones stay safe and comfortable during power outages. At PECO Heating & Cooling, we understand the importance of keeping your home powered, which is why we offer reliable backup generation installation and maintenance services. Don’t wait for the next outage to strike—contact us today at (864) 639-2424 to learn more or schedule an appointment! 

Why is Indoor Air Quality Important?

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Why is Indoor Air Quality Important?

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Many of us tend to think air pollution is only found outdoors. In fact, the air inside our homes can be as much as 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. Although many people recognize the hazards posed by outdoor air pollution, there tends to be less concern over the health hazards caused by indoor air pollution—even though it often has the same effects. 

What Causes Indoor Air Pollution?

Indoor air quality refers to the quality of the air in and around buildings—specifically as it relates to human health and comfort. The primary sources of indoor air pollution are items in the home that release particles or gases into the environment. If there’s not enough ventilation to disperse these pollutants, they can build up and become concentrated in the home. High temperatures and humidity levels can also increase the concentration of some pollutants. 

Some of the most common sources of poor indoor air quality include:

  • Gas appliances
  • Tobacco products
  • Building materials and furnishings, such as asbestos-based insulation, carpet, pressed-wood cabinetry, and upholstery
  • Household cleaning products
  • Personal care products
  • Products used for hobbies, such as paint or glue
  • Excess moisture
  • Outdoor sources, such as pesticides
  • Dirty or poorly maintained furnaces or air conditioners
  • Dust
  • Pet dander
  • Cooking

How Does Indoor Air Quality Affect Health?

Indoor air pollutants may cause health issues shortly after exposure or years later. Immediate effects tend to be short-term and go away after treatment. Some immediate effects include:

  • Eye, nose, and throat irritation
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue

Everyone’s reaction to indoor pollutants can vary depending on age, preexisting medical conditions, and individual sensitivity. Long-term health effects may show up years after exposure or after prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants, including:

  • Respiratory conditions
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Even if there are no noticeable symptoms, it’s still recommended to take steps to improve indoor air quality to prevent potential long-term effects. 

How to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Although it may not be possible to completely eliminate allergens and pollutants from your home, there are several simple changes you can make to reduce them and your exposure. 

  1. Clean your home regularly to reduce dust, dust mites, animal dander, and mold. Vacuum the carpets and rugs at least once or twice a week using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter. Clean up areas of clutter and wash bedding, drapes, and other items that attract tend to attract allergens. 
  2. Use sterile soil for indoor plants and only water them when the soil is dry to prevent mold growth. 
  3. If you have a forced air heating system, change the filters regularly and have the ducts cleaned periodically to remove trapped dust. 
  4. Invest in an air purifier to help capture indoor irritants. 
  5. Consider using a dehumidifier in damp areas of your home to prevent mold growth. 
  6. Open your windows from time to time to allow fresh air to circulate. 
  7. Use fans while cooking to remove fumes from the kitchen. 

For the Best Air Quality Solutions, Contact PECO

Whether you need your HVAC filters replaced or would like to install an air purification system, PECO Heating & Cooling offers a number of air quality solutions to help you breathe easier. Contact us today at (864) 639-2424 to discuss your needs. 

Getting Your Home Air Conditioner Ready for Summer

Posted on by PECO Heating & Cooling

Getting Your Home Air Conditioner
Ready For Summer

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Summer may be months away, but spring is the perfect time to get your air conditioner prepped and ready for warm, sunny days ahead!

Your AC unit sits idle for months during the fall and winter, collecting leaves, twigs, and other debris. If you don’t do a bit of maintenance on it, you might need to have it serviced in the summer—and as the busiest time for AC repair, this means you may end up waiting longer to get your unit up and running again. By doing a little maintenance now, you can keep your AC running great all season long. 

At PECO Heating & Cooling, we’re always happy to help you with any of your air conditioning needs. However, if you’d like to perform some basic maintenance yourself, here are a few helpful tips. Keep in mind that repairs should always be left to the professionals!

Understanding Your Air Conditioner

Central air conditioners have two primary components: the condenser, which is usually located outdoors, and an evaporator, which is mounted on the furnace or air handler. These two components work together to extract heat from the room using refrigeration technology. The furnace or air handler then blows the cooled, dehumidified air through the ducts and into the room. 

1.    Clean and/or Replace Your HVAC Filters 

This is one of the easiest and most important types of AC maintenance you can perform yourself. Most HVAC systems use a reusable or replaceable filter, which is usually located inside the air-inlet side of the air handler or furnace. Some systems also use air filters in the return air registers throughout the home. 

Air filters should be cleaned or replaced at least twice a year or whenever start looking clogged. If you have a large household, pets, or family members with allergies or other respiratory conditions, you may want to consider replacing them more frequently. Replacing your air filters will ensure the airflow doesn’t get restricted and allows your HVAC system to run more efficiently. Clean air filters also prevent dust from being recirculated in your home. 

2.    Clear Debris Away from the Condenser

After you’ve cleaned the condenser, remove any leaves or debris that have collected near its base. If your AC unit has a drain, make sure the drain is clear as well. Cut and remove any hedges, weeds or vines that could obstruct the condenser’s airflow.

3.    Check the Coolant Lines

The refrigerant tubes or pipes that run from the evaporator are usually covered with foam insulation. If any of the insulation is damaged or missing, it should be replaced. Foam insulation sleeves can be purchased online or at a hardware store. Wrap the lines in a spiral around the tubes or pipes and secure them using foam insulation tape. 

Your AC unit should start working again! If you have any issues, contact us to schedule an appointment.  

Get Your AC Ready for Summer with Professional Maintenance & Repairs

PECO is here to help! We’ll perform a thorough inspection and cleaning of the entire system, including the electrical connections, wiring, refrigerant levels, and other components. Don’t wait until summer to get your AC in gear—call PECO today at (864) 639-2424 or schedule an appointment online. 

How to Get Your Furnace or Heat Pump Prepared for Winter

Posted on by PECO Heating & Cooling

There are plenty of fun and memorable things to do during the winter holiday season, but they wouldn’t be nearly as enjoyable without your furnace or heat pump! Although winter is months away, it’s never too early to start thinking about getting your heating system ready to keep your home warm and cozy.

Here are some easy tips to keep in mind:

Change Your Air Filter

A person changing an air filter on a high efficiency furnace

Air filters are designed to protect your furnace and keep the air in your home clean. When the filter gets too dirty, it can affect the air quality of your home, the efficiency of your furnace or heat pump, and damage delicate components. Most air filters should be changed every three to six months, but if you have a large family or pets, you may need to replace your filter more frequently.

Ensure Your Heat Pump Has Proper Air Circulation

Along with checking your air filter, you should also make sure your heat pump has enough airflow. Check your outdoor unit and clear away any weeds, leaves, grass, or other yard debris that could be blocking its air circulation.

Schedule a Maintenance Appointment

Late summer to fall is the perfect time to schedule a maintenance appointment with us. We recommend getting an inspection, cleaning, and tune-up to ensure your unit is ready to counter the cold season ahead. To help make your HVAC maintenance more convenient, we offer a planned maintenance agreement. Our skilled technicians will come to your home twice a year and perform the following services:

  • Ensure the system is operating properly
  • Check the thermostat
  • Check the operating temperatures
  • Clean burners (if accessible)
  • Check the amperage of electronics
  • Test starting capabilities
  • Clean and/or replace 1” filters
  • Check the auxiliary heat
  • Check the condensation drain/pump
  • Check the defrost control
  • Check electrical connections
  • Check the indoor and outdoor coils
  • Check the evaporator coil
  • Clean the condenser coil (as needed)
  • Check the heat exchanger (if accessible)
  • Check motors AMP draw
  • Check the refrigerant line insulation

During your maintenance appointment, we’ll also make recommendations on anything else that might be needed to help your HVAC system run as efficiently as possible. With our planned maintenance agreement, you’ll also receive an additional 10% discount on repairs, no after-hours charges, and priority service.

Sign up for our planned maintenance agreement today!

Ready to Schedule Your Fall Maintenance?

Regular HVAC maintenance is essential to keep your system working its best year-round, but it can also help you save money, keep your house cooler in the summer, and reduce energy consumption.

According to the US Department of Energy, regular maintenance can reduce your energy bills by as much as 10-25% in wintertime. If you’re ready to schedule your fall maintenance, contact PECO today at 864-639-2424 or request an appointment online. We’re ready to help you stay warm this winter!

Furnace Not Working? Here Are the Top 10 Most Common Reasons for Furnace Failure.

Posted on by PECO Heating & Cooling

It’s a common theme in life: things often stop working when we need them the most. This is especially true of furnaces in the winter! Once cool weather hits, we receive numerous calls about furnace problems. Fortunately, many of the most common furnace issues are easy to troubleshoot yourself. 

furnace not working

Here’s a list of the top 10 most common reasons for furnace failure:

Your Thermostat is Malfunctioning

One of the first things to check when your furnace stops working is that the thermostat is working properly. First, check that the thermostat is on. Next, check the setting and make sure it’s switched to heat. Even though this seems obvious, many service calls could be avoided by performing this simple check! 

Check the Breaker Box

If the thermostat is working correctly, the next thing to check is if any of the fuses have been blown. If not, check the unit to make sure the power switch is on. Lastly, it’s always a good idea to check that the front panel door on the furnace is latched. Many furnaces won’t engage if the door isn’t shut all the way. Or your furnace may use a simple wall switch to turn on.

Ignition Failure

If you’ve gone through steps 1-2 and it hasn’t solved the issue, check to see if your furnace is failing to ignite. The furnace won’t light if it’s having issues with the pilot light or electrical systems. To check the pilot light, you’ll need to open the burner chamber door and locate the pilot light tube. If the pilot light is working correctly, you should see a small flame. 

Blower Motor

If the blower motor has stopped working, it will prevent the furnace from being able to move the heat it generates throughout your home. To check the blower motor, turn on the furnace and switch the thermostat to “fan only.” Wait for a few minutes and see if you can hear the fan turn on. If you can, the blower motor isn’t the issue. If the fan doesn’t start, it’s time to get your blower motor serviced or replaced. 

Dirty Air Filters

Is it time to change your air filters? Dirty or clogged filters are a very common reason for furnaces to stop working, especially if you have a large family or a lot of pets. Filters help to clean the air that heads into the furnace, as well as the heated air sent from the furnace to the house. Dirty filters reduce the airflow, which can cause heat and pressure to build up within the furnace. The furnace may still run but with less heat output and reduced efficiency. Many newer furnaces can detect this and will often shut down before the filter can cause an issue. 

Blocked Ducts or Vents

Like dirty air filters, a blocked ventilation or duct system can block airflow to and from the furnace. To check whether this is the issue, start by turning on the heat. When the fan beings to blow, check the vents in each room to see if there’s any airflow. If there’s a noticeable lack of air blowing from a specific vent, the duct will probably need to be cleaned. Having your vents cleaned regularly will improve air quality and energy efficiency—and keep your furnace running well!

Air Leaks

If you’ve gone through steps 1-6 and determined everything is working as it should, then you could have an air leak in your system. If this is the case, you may find that your home stays a bit cool because the warm air is heading outside. Or, if there’s a draft, cold air could be coming inside your home. Checking the ventilation areas inside and outside your home can help you determine whether you have an air leak. 

Fuel Supply

All furnaces need fuel, although the type of fuel can vary based on the model. Many furnaces run on natural gas, but there are also electric and gas furnaces. If you have a natural gas furnace, make sure that the lines are working by checking other gas appliances in your home and that the gas valve is turned on. 

Blocked Drainage Hose

High-efficiency furnaces tend to drain a lot of water during the winter. Check your furnace’s drainage hose to see if any sediment or mold is causing a blockage. If you’re able to remove the dirty hose, give it a good flush to help clear the blockage. 

Lack of Maintenance

With our busy lives, it’s easy for routine maintenance to be put on the back burner. Unfortunately, if your furnace isn’t being maintained, it could develop a variety of issues that aren’t as common—or easy to fix—as the ones listed above. One easy way to ensure your HVAC system stays maintained is by taking advantage of our planned maintenance agreement. We’ll come to your home twice a year and perform routine cleaning and maintenance on your system. You also receive a 10% discount on any repairs, no after-hours charges, and priority service!

Need Assistance with Your Furnace? Contact the Experts at PECO!

If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the problem, or you’re noticing strange smells or noises around your home, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at PECO Heating & Cooling! We’re always happy to help, especially when it comes to your family’s comfort in the winter. Call our 24/7 answering service at (864) 639-2424!

8 Easy Tips for Home Plumbing Maintenance

Posted on by PECO Heating & Cooling
Hand with wrench fixing sink pipe close up view

Many of us don’t put much thought into our plumbing… unless there’s a problem. Then, it’s difficult to ignore. Fortunately, it’s not hard to avoid many of the most common issues, like leaks, clogs, or broken or rusted pipes. With these simple tips, you can keep your plumbing system in excellent condition and avoid inconvenient repairs!

Don’t Flush Anything That Shouldn’t Be Flushed

A clogged toilet can be a nightmare, but it’s very easy to avoid. The only things that should ever be flushed down your toilet are your own waste and toilet paper. Just because something can be flushed, doesn’t mean it should! Make sure you’re throwing sanitary products, hair, food, cotton swabs, and other disposable items in the garbage.

Spot Tank Leaks with Food Coloring

How can you tell if your toilet tank is leaking into the bowl? Put some red food coloring in the tank and wait for about an hour. Then, check your bowl; if you have a tank leak, the water will be red or tinged red. To fix the issue, you’ll need to replace the tank ball. Not only will this stop the leak, but you may even save some money on your water bill!

Quickly Stop Overflowing Toilets with the Flush Valve

Have you ever watched in horror as the water level slowly rises in the toilet bowl? If it looks like it might overflow, open the tank and push the flush valve down. This will stop the water from rising so you can address the clog.

Clear a Blocked Toilet with Hot Water and Soap

If you don’t have a plunger, you can clear a blockage by adding hot water and soap to the toilet bowl. Make sure the water is as hot as it comes out of the tap, then fill the bowl with it. Add as much hot water as you’re able; then add a good amount of liquid soap. Don’t worry about overdoing it—you can’t add too much. The hot water will help break down the clog, and the soap will allow everything to start moving again.

Soak Clogged Showerheads with Vinegar

Showerheads get clogged with mineral deposits over time, which can block water flow. To remove the mineral deposits, unscrew your showerhead and soak it in vinegar for 24 hours. If the showerhead is still clogged, it’s time for a new one.

Flush Your Water Heater Yearly

Mineral sediments can accumulate at the bottom of your water heater; if they build up too much, the sediment can cause the water heater’s bottom to rust out. To prevent this, you should flush your water heater once a year. If your water heater is making banging sounds, this is a sign that it really needs to be flushed. The noise you’re hearing comes from the water bubbling up through a thick layer of sediment at the bottom of the tank. Flushing your tank annually will help it last a lot longer.

Another thing that will help your water heater last longer is to change the anode rod every five years. This is a steel core wire wrapped with magnesium, aluminum, or zinc that protects the metal lining of your water heater from corrosion.

Use Mesh Drain Covers

Sink, bath, and shower drains can get clogged from hair, soap chips, and other types of debris. Using mesh drain covers over your drain can prevent these things from washing down—and save you the trouble of having your drains snaked.

Inspect Your Pipes for Leaks

Since leaky faucets and toilets can add hundreds of dollars to your water bills, it’s a good idea to stay diligent about repairing them. Many of the issues that cause plumbing leaks don’t happen overnight—like rusted or corroded pipes.

For this reason, it’s a good idea to do regular inspections of the exposed pipes in your home. If you see rust, warping, and drops of water on the outside of the pipes, it’s time for a plumber.

Plumbing Issues? Call PECO!

You rely on your plumbing daily, so keep it working its best with these simple maintenance tips! A little bit of care can go a long way in preventing issues like clogs, leaks, and water damage.

If you have a plumbing issue that requires more than a DIY fix, give us a call! PECO has an experienced team of plumbing experts who are ready to help with any installations, maintenance, or repairs you need. Have an issue in the middle of the night or weekend? Not a problem! We have a 24/7 answering service to assist you whenever plumbing issues strike. Our team proudly serves Anderson, Pickens, Greenville, and Oconee counties. Call us today at (864) 639-2424 or contact us online.

Interested in a Gas Fireplace? Act Now!

Posted on by PECO Heating & Cooling
gas fireplace for sale

You may not want to think about it, but cooler weather will be here before you know it. Though summer is still in full swing, it’s never too early to start planning for the future—or planning for the fall season. One of the best ways to stay comfortable (and warm!) during this change is with a gas fireplace. 

If this is something you’re interested in, the PECO professional team would love to assist you as soon as possible. We are a family-owned, Christian heating and cooling business with decades of experience. We care about our clients, which is why we’re going to give you a little tip: If you’re considering a gas fireplace—act now! 

Currently, our company is experiencing equipment shortages. It’s been challenging to get gas lines and gas logs for the fireplaces. Therefore, we can’t recommend being proactive enough. Specifically, before the winter rush, it’s best to schedule an appointment so our team can get the work completed for you now. 

Still on the fence about a gas fireplace?

Take a look at these benefits: 

  • Energy Saving: You can save up to 25 percent on your energy bill 
  • No Cleaning: You don’t have to worry about messy ash 
  • No Firewood: You don’t have to harm a tree or haul away firewood 
  • Constant Heat: You will experience constant heat without issue
  • User-Friendly: You can turn on and off the gas fireplace with a flip of the switch 
  • Environmentally Friendly: You are doing your part to save the environment by not releasing fumes into the air 
  • Stylish: You have different styles to choose from  
  • Safer: You won’t have to worry about flames or sparks
  • Good Investment: You will add value to your home
  • Installation is included with the price quoted

Are you interested in a gas fireplace now? If so, let’s start the process of getting you one! 

Contact PECO Today! 

As we said, when it comes to gas lines and gas logs for gas fireplaces, time is of the essence. It’s best to act now instead of missing your opportunity. If you’d liked to learn more about gas fireplaces or schedule service, contact the professional and friendly team at PECO today by calling (864) 639-2424. We look forward to hearing from you! 

What To Do When Your Air Conditioner Stops Working

Posted on by PECO Heating & Cooling
air conditioning Clemson

It’s a hot summer day and your AC stops working. Don’t panic, PECO has created a basic troubleshooting guide on what to do for the three main problems facing air conditioners. It’s true that many problems need to be addressed by a professional HVAC technician, but there are some problems – like a tripped circuit breaker – that are easy and fast to fix yourself.

We have to point out that many common issues with air conditioning units can be caused by inadequate maintenance. In order to avoid future problems, we recommend our Planned Maintenance agreement, which can help ensure your AC stays running smoothly.

1. Your Air Conditioner Won’t Turn On

A common problem is that the AC simply won’t turn on. The first thing to do is to go outside and see if the condenser is running. Look to see that the electrical disconnect is plugged in.

Next, ensure that the thermostat is set properly. Sometimes setting the thermostat 5-10° lower and making sure the thermostat is switched to “cool” is all it needs the AC needs to trigger on. You’ll also want to see if a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse is to blame, which would deprive the unit of energy.

If these simple tips don’t work, and especially if your coil is frozen, it’s time to contact the professionals. It may be a larger problem involving the compressor, coil, or motor.

2. The Air Conditioner isn’t Cooling the House Enough

Is your AC the little engine that could? It’s pumping out cold air but it’s simply not enough to cool the house as much as you want? Check the return filters – they should be changed monthly to allow proper airflow for the system.

It’s possible that your air conditioner is not adequate for your home’s square footage or the temperatures are unseasonably warm. AC units are built to cool certain square footage, so if you have a large and/or multistory home, the unit might not be appropriately sized for the space. AC systems are also sized also for average seasonal temperatures.

It’s important to remember that AC units are designed and installed with the expectation of cooling your home 20-25° on an average summer day. That means if it’s 100° outside, your unit is not designed to cool your house to 68°.

If it’s an average summer day and your unit is struggling to keep the house cool, it could be that you need a bigger unit or there’s a problem with your existing unit. If you see any icing on the unit, immediately shut it off and call PECO for a professional inspection.

3. The Air Conditioner is Not Blowing Cold Air

You’ve set the thermostat, and the AC is running, but the air coming out of the vents doesn’t feel too cold. First, go outside and check your unit. If the condenser is blocked by weeds and debris, it cannot properly work. Clear anything piled up around the system away. Is there ice on the copper line set or condenser? Contact PECO for repairs, there will be ice blocking the indoor coil and the system cooling must be set to off and the blower fan to on to deice the system. Your PECO technician needs the system free of ice to properly diagnose.

Then inspect your air filter to ensure it’s clean. Can you see through the filter? If not, it’s time to replace it. If the air filter is dirty, air cannot pass through easily, and when limited air gets to the evaporator coil, it can freeze. Do you run your AC a lot? Do you have pets? We recommend changing the standard pleat filters monthly, but you may have to replace them more often depending on your circumstances.

If your outdoor condenser and air filter are clean, it may be an issue with the refrigerant or the compressor.

Whatever the problem, your local air conditioning pros can help! PECO has an experienced team of HVAC experts who are ready to assist you in all maintenance and repairs of AC systems. We proudly serve Anderson, Pickens, Greeneville, and Oconee counties. Call (864) 639-2424 for service today – we make emergency calls, too!

The Positive Side of Plumbing

Posted on by PECO Heating & Cooling

Your gut reaction to plumbing might be “oh no!”. There are a lot of issues that can arise with plumbing – water heater leaks, pipe leaks, pipes freezing – but what about all the great things associated with plumbing? Imagine changing out your kitchen faucet to a sleek, touchless model that makes it easy to prepare dinner and bake cookies without having to fiddle with the faucet. Or upgrading to a tankless hot water heater that has a long life, lowers utility bills, and provides endless hot water. Or changing out the toilet in the restroom to a high-tech model with a seat warmer. The possibilities are endless!

PECO offers plumbing services for South Carolina residents of Central, Seneca, Clemson, Anderson, Six Mile, Sunset, and Salem. We provide 24/7 emergency service for urgent issues like water leaks and pipe bursts. We also offer regular service for upgrades, remodels, and maintenance. Plumbing doesn’t always have to be a problem. Sometimes, it can be fun!

Don’t leave plumbing just to emergencies – utilize PECO to increase your quality of life and enjoyment of your home with plumbing upgrades. We help homeowners modernize their kitchens and bathrooms by upgrading plumbing and life comforts. Have you been wishing for an instant hot faucet for tea? We have a team of experienced home professionals that can help.

How We Can Help

As a licensed contractor, we can handle home improvement and plumbing projects. Let us update your home! Here are just some ideas of what we can do:

Plumbing equipment on gray flat lay background with copy space.
  • Replace bathroom fixtures
  • Install new dishwasher
  • Install new garbage disposal
  • Install new faucets
  • Replace a toilet
  • Replace showerheads
  • Replace hot water heater with gas tankless water heater
  • Install instant hot in kitchen
  • Drain cleaning – small or large jobs

Do you have a plumbing idea for your home? We can bring your vision to life. Call PECO at (864) 639-2424 to schedule an appointment!