Blog

Heat pumps are designed to handle both cooling and heating, which usually makes them a dependable year-round comfort system for homes in Lynchburg, VA. Of course, like any other piece of equipment, problems can occasionally arise, like when the system seems to be stuck in cooling mode even as the temperatures drop. If your heat pump won’t switch to heating mode, don’t panic: there are several likely causes, and the technicians at Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical are here to break down what’s happening behind the scenes. We’ll also help you understand which steps to take next to restore comfort to your home. How a Heat Pump Switches Between Cooling and Heating A heat pump doesn’t “create” heat the way a furnace does. Instead, it transfers heat from one place to another. In cooling mode, it pulls heat from inside your home and releases it outdoors. In heating mode, it pulls heat from the outdoor air and moves it inside (yes, even when it’s chilly outside, there’s still heat energy available). The key to switching modes is a component called the reversing valve. When the thermostat calls for heat, the heat pump energizes the reversing valve (in most systems), which changes the direction the refrigerant travels through the coil. That swap is what allows the same system to heat or cool your home. A few other parts help the system make the switch smoothly: The Thermostat and Control Board: These components tell the system which mode to run and when. The Temperature Sensors: These sensors help regulate operation and prevent damage (especially in colder conditions). The Defrost Control: This part of the system prevents the outdoor coil from icing over in the winter. Auxiliary/Emergency Heat: Some systems have a furnace that provides backup heat when outdoor temperatures drop extremely low and the heat pump can’t keep up. When something in this chain isn’t working correctly, your heat pump may struggle to change from cooling to heating. The Most Common Reasons Your Heat Pump Won’t Switch to Heating Mode If the mornings are starting to feel crisp and your heat pump won’t switch to heating, the problem usually boils down to one of these culprits: Incorrect Thermostat Settings Before assuming something major is wrong, start with the basics: Confirm the thermostat is set to HEAT (not COOL or AUTO). Increase the set temperature by 3-5 degrees to trigger a heating demand. If you have a programmable thermostat, make sure the schedule didn’t switch you to a cooling setting. Check the fan setting — AUTO is usually best. (Fan “ON” won’t stop heating, but it can make the air feel cooler if the system isn’t actually heating.) If your thermostat takes batteries, replace them. Low power can cause strange behavior, including a failure to switch from cooling to heating. Thermostat Wiring or Compatibility Problems If you recently replaced your thermostat or had electrical work done, incorrect wiring can prevent signals from reaching the heat pump. Heat pumps also require specific wiring terminals (like O/B for the reversing valve). If the thermostat isn’t configured for a heat pump system, it may send the wrong signal. This is especially common when a standard thermostat is installed on a heat pump, or when the O/B setting is flipped (some systems energize the reversing valve in cooling, others in heating). The result can feel like the unit is stuck in the wrong mode. Reversing Valve Issues Since the reversing valve controls whether the system heats or cools, it’s a prime suspect for problems related to mode switching. The valve can fail mechanically, become stuck, or develop an electrical issue with the solenoid coil that energizes it. Signs that can point to a reversing valve problem include: The system runs, but the air coming out is cool when it should be warm. You hear unusual hissing or changes in sound when the system tries to switch. The unit seems “locked” into one mode, no matter what the thermostat is set to. Because the reversing valve is part of the sealed refrigerant system, it takes specialized tools and training to diagnose correctly. Make sure you call a professional technician for an expert heating repair. Defrost Cycle Confusion Heat pumps periodically enter a defrost cycle to melt ice from the outdoor coil. During the defrost mode, the system may temporarily produce cooler air indoors for a short period. Normally, you’ll only experience this briefly — often a few minutes — and auxiliary heat may kick on to keep you comfortable. But if the defrost control board or sensors malfunction, your system can behave oddly, including appearing to switch modes at the wrong time or not switching back properly. Sensor Problems Heat pumps rely on sensors to regulate temperature, protect components, and manage defrost. If a sensor is dirty, damaged, misreading conditions, or disconnected, it can interfere with mode switching. For example, a faulty outdoor temperature sensor can cause the system to make poor decisions about when to run the heat pump versus auxiliary heat or trigger unnecessary defrost behavior. In some cases, the system may shut down heating altogether to prevent potential damage. Electrical or Control Board Failures Your heat pump has a control board that receives thermostat signals and coordinates the system’s response. If there’s an electrical issue (like a blown fuse, failed relay, loose connection, or failing board), the unit may run the outdoor/indoor components but ignore the heat request. Sometimes, homeowners notice this as “it runs, but it never warms up,” or “it only cools no matter what.” Low Refrigerant or Airflow Problems While low refrigerant doesn’t exactly “lock” the system into cooling mode, it can keep the heat pump from producing warm air effectively. Similarly, restricted airflow (a dirty filter, clogged coil, or blocked vents) can cause performance issues that make it seem like the system isn’t heating. If your heat pump is blowing lukewarm or cool air in heating mode, it might be trying to heat but can’t do it efficiently due to a refrigerant leak, airflow restriction, or coil issue. You can often resolve airflow issues with these steps: Replace the air filter if it’s dirty. Ensure vents are open and unobstructed. Make sure the outdoor unit isn’t buried in leaves or debris (give it breathing room). If these steps don’t restore your system’s heating ability, you will want to have it checked by a qualified technician for a refrigerant leak. Why You Should Call a Professional for Heat Pump Problems If you’ve checked your thermostat settings, changed the filter, and confirmed your breaker hasn’t tripped, but the system still won’t switch to heating mode, it’s time to bring in a pro. With a professional heating company handling your system, you can enjoy a range of benefits: An Accurate Diagnosis Saves Money: Heat pump problems can look similar without a trained eye. A technician, however, can pinpoint whether it’s a thermostat issue, reversing valve trouble, a defrost control problem, or something else. Protecting the System Prevents Bigger Repairs: Continuing to run a heat pump that’s malfunctioning can strain components and lead to more expensive damage over time. Refrigerant and Electrical Work Require Expertise: These are not safe DIY projects. Handling refrigerant requires certification, and electrical troubleshooting should be done by trained professionals to avoid hazards. Comfort and Safety Come First: If your home isn’t heating properly, indoor temperatures can drop quickly. Getting help sooner can prevent a stressful situation. Restore Your Heat Pump System’s Performance If your heat pump won’t switch to heating mode, Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical is here to troubleshoot the problem and get your comfort back on track. Our technicians arrive promptly, offer honest recommendations, and provide upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect. Ready to get the heat back? Schedule a heat pump repair service with our professionals today and enjoy reliable heating all season long.

It’s a cold Lynchburg morning. You shuffle down the hallway, flip your thermostat to “Heat,” and wait for that familiar, cozy wave of warm air to roll through the vents. But instead, you feel a chilly draft. If your furnace is blowing out cold air right now, it’s completely understandable to feel frustrated (and a little worried). When the heat isn’t working the way it should, your comfort drops fast — and so does your peace of mind. A furnace that produces cold air may have a few different things going on at once, some simple and quick to fix, others more serious and best handled by a professional. Below, we’ll walk through the most common causes of furnaces blowing cold air and what you can do about them. If you’d rather skip the guesswork, Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical is always here to help. Don’t hesitate to contact us at any point! First: Is It Really Cold Air… or Just the Furnace Starting Up? Before you assume the worst, know this: many furnaces blow slightly cool or room-temperature air for a short time when they first turn on. This can happen if the blower fan starts before the heat exchanger is fully warmed up. You may also notice a brief cool draft at the end of a heating cycle, when the fan runs to push the last bit of warm air through your ducts. What to Do: Give it a few minutes. If the air warms up after a short period, your system may be operating normally. If the air stays cold or your home temperature keeps dropping, keep troubleshooting. Your furnace may be blowing cold air because of one of the reasons below. Thermostat Settings That Can Trick You Sometimes, the furnace is doing exactly what it’s told… but the thermostat is giving it the wrong instructions. Fan Set to “ON” Instead of “AUTO” If your thermostat fan is set to ON, the blower runs continuously, even when the furnace isn’t actively heating. That means you’ll feel air moving through the vents, but it may be unheated air between cycles. What to Do: Switch the fan setting to AUTO so it only runs when the furnace is producing heat. Heat Pump vs. Furnace Confusion (in Dual-Fuel Systems) Some homes have a heat pump paired with a furnace, and the thermostat needs to be set correctly for the equipment to stage properly, especially during colder weather. What to Do: If you’re unsure what system you have or the thermostat programming seems off, it’s worth having a technician check the setup to make sure your heating system is switching modes properly. A Dirty Air Filter Can Cause Cold Air (Yes, Really) A clogged air filter restricts airflow, and when airflow drops too low, many furnaces can overheat, triggering a safety feature that shuts off the burners. In many cases, the blower continues running to cool the system down, and you may feel cool air coming from the vents. What to Do: Turn off the furnace, and replace the air filter with the correct size and type. Turn the furnace back on and see if the heat returns. Your Pilot Light Is Out (or the Ignition System Isn’t Working) Depending on the age and type of your furnace, it may have a standing pilot light or an electronic ignition system. Older Systems With a Pilot Light If you have an older gas furnace, it likely relies on a small, standing flame called a pilot light to ignite the burners. If that light goes out (due to a draft or a dirty component), the burners won’t light, and your blower will simply push unheated air through your home. What to Do: Check your furnace’s instructions (usually on the inside panel) for safe relighting steps. If it won’t stay lit, don’t keep trying. There may be an underlying issue (like a faulty thermocouple) that needs a heating repair. Newer Furnaces With Electronic Ignitions Modern furnaces typically use a hot surface igniter or intermittent pilot. If it fails, the system may attempt to ignite, then shut down for safety. What to Do: If you hear the furnace trying to start but it never kicks into heating mode, this is a good time to call a professional. Ignition components are delicate, and repeated failed starts can stress the system. The Gas Supply Is Disrupted If your furnace runs on natural gas or propane, no fuel means no heat. Even if the blower is working, the burners won’t fire without gas. What to Do: Check that your gas shutoff valve is open (the handle should be parallel to the gas line). If you suspect a gas issue or smell gas, leave your home and contact your gas provider and local heating company immediately. Duct Leaks or Disconnected Ductwork Sometimes, the furnace is heating air properly, but that warm air isn’t making it to your rooms. Leaks, gaps, or disconnected sections of ductwork (often in crawlspaces, basements, or attics) can let warm air escape, while cooler surrounding air gets pulled into the system. Signs this might be the root of your heating problem include: Certain rooms are much colder than others Weak airflow from vents High heating bills Dusty air or musty smells when the heat runs What to Do: A technician can inspect ductwork and recommend sealing or repairs. Fixing duct issues can improve comfort and efficiency in a big way. Heat Your Home Again With Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical If your furnace is blowing cold air, you don’t have to tough it out or guess your way through the problem. Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical has served homeowners in Lynchburg, VA, and the surrounding areas since 1979, and we know how quickly a heating issue can turn into a stressful situation. Our technicians will get to the bottom of what’s happening, explain your options clearly, and restore reliable heat as quickly as possible. Contact us today to schedule a furnace repair, and let’s get your home all warm and cozy once again!

Remodeling your home is a big step many folks take to make life better and give their space a more personal feel. But when you're planning to redo parts of your house, you've also got to think about remodeling your HVAC system. Do you know what HVAC remodeling actually means? It's all about giving your system an upgrade when it needs it most. Before you jump into this project, keep these five important factors in mind to get the most out of your investment. 1. The Ductwork Used Throughout Your Home Your duct system plays a huge role in how well your heating and cooling system works. Old, leaky, or poorly designed ducts can waste up to 30% of your energy! When you're doing a home remodeling project, it's the perfect time to check out what's happening behind your walls. Look at your current ducts — are they dented, disconnected, or covered in dust? These are signs you might need an upgrade. Flexible ducts might work for some spots, but rigid metal ducts last longer and usually leak less air. The layout matters, too. If your remodeling project includes adding new space to your home, you'll need to figure out how to extend your ductwork. Sometimes, the existing setup won't handle the extra load, which means you might need a redesign. Insulation around ducts also makes a big difference, especially in attics, crawlspaces, or unheated areas. Well-insulated ducts keep your treated air at the right temperature until it reaches your living space. 2. The Capacity of the HVAC System Needed An HVAC system that's too small won't keep up when temperatures get extreme. One that's too big will cycle on and off too much, wasting energy and wearing out faster. During your construction project, your home's heating and cooling needs might change completely. Taking down walls? Your airflow patterns will change. Adding a sunroom? That's more space to heat and cool. Putting in bigger windows? That affects how much heat comes in or escapes. A good HVAC professional won't just look at your home's square footage. They'll check your insulation levels, window quality, ceiling heights, and even which direction your home faces. All these factors help determine the right capacity for your needs. If your remodeling project is adding significant space, your current HVAC unit might not cut it anymore. Sometimes, you can add a second smaller system just for the new area instead of replacing your whole setup. 3. The Efficiency of Your HVAC System Your HVAC system is probably one of the biggest energy users in your home. When you're remodeling, you've got a golden chance to cut those bills down. Modern HVAC units are way more efficient than ones from even ten years ago. If your current HVAC system is getting old, replacing it during your remodeling project could save you serious cash over time. Look for that SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) on air conditioners and HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) on heat pumps — higher numbers mean better efficiency. Smart thermostats are game-changers, too. They learn your schedule and adjust temperatures automatically, cutting waste. Some even track your energy use so you can see exactly where your money goes. Adding one during your remodel is pretty simple and pays off fast. Zone control systems let you heat or cool only the parts of your house you're using. If your remodeling project involves adding rooms or changing your home's layout, zoning might make a lot of sense. You can keep guest rooms cooler in winter when nobody's visiting, or focus cooling on bedrooms at night. 4. The Ventilation in Your Home Good airflow keeps your home healthy. When you're remodeling, you've got the walls open — the perfect time to fix ventilation problems. Modern homes are built pretty tight to save energy, which is great for your bills but can trap pollutants inside. Your remodeling project should include a plan for bringing fresh air in and pushing stale air out in a controlled way. An air purifier built into your HVAC system can trap tiny particles your regular air filter misses. During a remodel, it's relatively easy to add this feature to your heating and cooling system. This can be a huge plus if anyone in your family has allergies or asthma. Heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) or energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) bring in fresh air without wasting the energy you've used to heat or cool your home. They're a bit pricey to add, but during a major remodeling project, the extra cost might be worth it for the comfort and health benefits. 5. The Value of Different Types of HVAC Systems There's way more than just the standard forced-air systems out there. Your remodeling project might be the perfect time to consider switching to something that fits your lifestyle better. Heat pumps work as both a heater and an air conditioning unit, which can simplify your system. They're super efficient in mild climates, though they need backup in very cold areas. The latest models work well in much colder temperatures than older versions. Ductless mini-split systems let you control temperatures in individual rooms without installing ductwork. They're awesome for additions, finished attics, or if you're converting a garage to a living space. Each area gets its own temperature control, so you're not cooling empty rooms. Geothermal systems use the stable temperatures underground to heat and cool your home. They cost more upfront but can cut your energy bills by 40 to 70%. If your remodeling project involves major landscape work anyway, this might be worth looking into. Ready to Upgrade Your HVAC System? We Can Help! Remodeling gives you a chance to fix problems you've been living with for years. One of the biggest perks is that you can boost the efficiency of your HVAC systems while you're at it. With help from our experienced team at Hickey, you can make the most of your HVAC remodel and find the ideal setup for your home. Give us a call before you get too far into your remodeling process. Getting the HVAC plans right early saves headaches later. We can help with all your HVAC remodeling needs in Lynchburg, VA, or one of the surrounding areas. Contact us today to get started!

Have you ever asked yourself, "Why is my furnace making a loud noise?" If so, you're not alone. Many homeowners experience this issue, and understanding why your furnace is making a loud noise can be crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient heating system. In this blog, we'll explore the various furnace noises and what they mean, helping you identify and address any concerns with your heating system. Identifying Different Furnace Noises and What They Mean A furnace can make a range of sounds, and each type of noise can indicate a different issue. From a whistling sound, which may suggest whistling dirty air filters, to rumbling noises, every sound has a meaning. Knowing these can help you troubleshoot and decide when it's time to call for professional heating repair. Dirty or Clogged Filters One common reason for furnace noises is dirty or clogged air filters. When filters are not regularly changed, they can restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder and produce a whistling sound. Regular maintenance, including replacing dirty air filters, can prevent these noises and improve efficiency. Issues With the Blower Wheel or Motor A furnace making a loud noise could indicate a problem with the blower wheel or furnace blower motor. If these components become loose or damaged, they can create a variety of noises, such as banging, rattling, or screeching sounds. This often requires professional furnace repair to resolve. Cracked Heat Exchanger A cracked heat exchanger is a serious issue that can cause your furnace to make strange sounds like a low rumbling. This problem not only affects the efficiency of your heating system but also poses a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Immediate professional attention is necessary. Duct System Issues Noises can also originate from the duct system of your furnace. Expanding and contracting metal ducts can produce popping or banging sounds during the furnace cycle. This is often normal but can sometimes indicate an issue with the ductwork. Loose or Broken Internal Components Over time, internal components of a furnace, such as screws or the blower motor, can become loose or worn out. These issues can lead to a variety of strange noises, including buzzing, humming, or clanking. Regular inspections can help identify and fix these problems. Ignition Problems If you hear a loud bang when your furnace starts, it could be due to delayed ignition. This is often caused by a build-up of gas and can sound like a small explosion. It's a potentially dangerous situation that should be addressed by a professional immediately. Carbon Monoxide Risks Certain furnace noises, particularly from older furnaces, can indicate a risk of carbon monoxide leaks. If you suspect any issue that could lead to a carbon monoxide leak, it’s crucial to have your furnace inspected by a licensed technician as soon as possible. Safety First: When to Call a Professional It's important to differentiate between normal furnace noises and those that indicate a problem. While some furnace noises can happen without indicating the presence of a major issue, others can signal serious safety issues like a potential carbon monoxide leak. If you're ever in doubt about the source of the noise or how to fix it, it's always best to call a professional. At Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical, we offer a wide range of services to meet your needs. Whether you need a furnace replacement or a thermostat repair near Lynchburg, VA, we can assist you. The Importance of Regular Maintenance Understanding why your furnace is making a loud noise can help you identify whether the issue is a simple fix or something that requires professional attention. It can also help you take proactive measures to keep your heating system running in top shape. Regular maintenance is key to preventing many common furnace noises. An annual check-up can identify issues like loose parts, dirty burners, or worn-out components before they turn into bigger problems. This not only ensures your furnace runs efficiently but also keeps your home warm and safe. DIY Fixes vs. Professional Help While some issues — like changing air filters or tightening a loose screw — can be DIY fixes, others require professional intervention. If you hear grinding, loud banging, or any noise that seems unusual, it's safer to contact a professional. You may need a furnace repair. For those in the Lynchburg, VA area, Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical is ready to assist with all your heating needs. Ensuring a Quiet and Efficient Furnace Loud furnace noises can be unsettling, but understanding furnace noises and what they mean can help you take the right action. Whether it’s a minor issue you can fix yourself or a more complex one requiring professional attention, addressing these noises promptly is key to maintaining a safe and efficient heating system. Schedule Your Heating Services Today! If you're experiencing furnace noises that concern you, don’t hesitate to contact Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical. We offer comprehensive heating services to ensure your furnace operates safely and efficiently. Remember, when it comes to your furnace, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Now that you know the potential reasons why your furnace is making a loud noise, why wait? Let our team help you achieve peace of mind and a comfortably heated home this season. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

What Kind of Furnace Filter Should I Use? When it comes to home maintenance projects nothing could be easier than changing your furnace air filter. Replacing the furnace filter on a regular basis helps keep your heating system and air ducts clean, improving the air quality in your home. It can also extend the lifespan of your furnace and air conditioner by reducing the amount of dirt and debris that accumulates on the motor and electronic components. A clean air filter also creates less airflow resistance, allowing the blower motor to work more efficiently, saving energy. What's the Best Kind of Furnace Filter? There are three common filter types. The first kind is a disposable fiberglass filter. These have been around for decades and are usually the least expensive. Fiberglass filters will prevent the largest particles of dirt, lint and other debris from entering the furnace. However, smaller particulates such as mold and pollen will pass right through and will end up circulating throughout your home's duct work. The second type of furnace filter is the disposable pleated filter made from cotton or polyester fibers. These are much better than fiberglass filters at removing small airborne particles . However, they typically need to be changed more often because they trap finer particles of dirt, clogging the filter quicker and reducing air flow. The third kind of filter is a polarized media air cleaner, also called an electronic air cleaner. This kind of filter uses an electronically charged surface that makes the finest particles cling to the filter surface. Smaller particles like pollen, pet dander and fine dust that would pass right through fiberglass and paper filters are effectively trapped. This type of filter can function as a whole-house air cleaner. While it's more expensive than a fiberglass or pleated filter, in most cases a polarized media filter can be cleaned multiple times before needing to be replaced, which can reduce the cost over time. If you or someone in your household suffers from allergies, or has breathing problems, polarized filters and HEPA-rated air filters are the best option for removing allergens from the air. Selecting the right filter will depend on your furnace and your unique needs. If you would like more information on selecting the right filter for your home, give Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical a call, and we'll be happy to help answer your heating and cooling questions.

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in the Home Every year, thousands of people in the U.S. are sickened by carbon monoxide (CO) and over 1,500 people die. Because carbon monoxide  is a colorless and odorless gas, it's important to take steps to keep this silent killer out of the home, and have a plan when you suspect someone in the home has been sickened by CO gas. Here are the steps to follow: Never use portable gas or charcoal grills indoors, including in open garages. Ensure that your furnace or heat pump is operating safely by scheduling an annual cleaning and safety inspection. Check appliances and vents for soot stains, blockage and corrosion. An improperly vented appliance such as a gas water heater, fireplace, oven, or dryer can prevent exhaust fumes to exiting the home. Never use a gas oven or stove to heat your home. When running a portable generator, ensure it is kept well away from the home. Carbon Monoxide Detectors It's legally required in many municipalities that every level of a home have a carbon monoxide detector installed. The detectors should be installed near bedrooms. When a the detector senses elevated levels of CO gas, an alarm will go off alerting you of potential danger. If the alarm goes off, everyone in the home, including pets, should go outside. Hickey Plumbing, Air and Electrical can install carbon monoxide detectors as well as smoke detectors that are hard-wired with a battery backup. If you suspect you or a family member has carbon monoxide poisoning The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include: Dull headache Weakness Dizziness Nausea Vomiting Shortness of breath Confusion Blurred vision If someone is experiencing any of  these symptoms do the following: Get out of the home. Call 911 and seek emergency medical treatment immediately Keep still to conserve oxygen in the blood Do not return inside until the cause of the carbon monoxide has been located and fixed.

Furnace Won't Turn On? Here's What to Check It's the first cold night of the season in the Lynchburg area and you switch on the heat for the first time in months... and nothing happens. There's no heat! What should you do? It could be a simple fix, so here's what to check. Check That the Power Is On - Even though a furnace is gas powered, it requires electricity to run. Open your circuit breaker panel and locate the breaker for the furnace or heat pump. If the circuit has tripped, switch it back to the ON position. If the circuit trips again, DO NOT RESET IT MORE THAN ONCE, as this is a safety measure to prevent an electrical fire in the event of a malfunction. Call Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical to have the electrical system checked. Ensure that the Thermostat Is Turned To the HEAT Position. You may need to turn the temperature up a couple more degrees to get the heat to come on. Check the Furnace Condensate Pan. During normal operation water will drain from the air conditioner or furnace into a drain pan. If the drain line for the pan is clogged, the pan will fill up and trigger a float switch, preventing the operation of the furnace or air conditioner. Check to see if the float switch is up (activated). If it is, you will need to clear the obstruction from the drain line to allow the pan to empty and reset the switch. Check the Furnace Filter. An extremely dirty air filter will make the furnace overheat, which will cause it to shut down as a safety precaution. Install a new filter to allow it to breathe easier. Check the Pilot Light. This only applies to older gas furnaces. Most newer units have electric ignition. If your pilot light is out,consult your owner's manual for the correct way to light the pilot, or contact us for assistance. Check the Fuel Supply. If there are other gas appliances in the home, such as a gas range or fireplace, check that they are functioning. If they are not, the problem is with the home's gas supply, so contact your utility company for help. If none of the above steps work and the furnace still won't turn on, call Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical. We can quickly diagnose the cause of the problem and get your heat back on quickly.

Furnace Air Filter Tips One of the most common q uestions customers ask is, "How often should I replace my furnace filter?" The answer is usually once a month. However, there are a few other things to consider when replacing your furnace air filter. Here are some helpful tips. 1. Buy filters in bulk and store them near the furnace Having replacement filters near your furnace will reduce the tendency to procrastinate and wait too long between filter changes. Also, buying a bulk package of filters is usually less expensive than purchasing individual filters. 2. Always use the correct size filter A poor-fitting furnace filter allows dirt and debris to get around the filter and contaminate the air in your home. It can also lead to clogged air conditioner coils, reducing the efficiency of the unit and shortening the lifespan of the compressor and other components. 3. Install the filter facing right direction Most filters have arrows indicating the direction of air flow. Putting the filter in backwards can cause the filter to work less efficiently and in some cases may cause the filter to buckle, allowing air around the filter. 4. Always turn of the power at the breaker rather than the thermostat This will ensure that if you come in contact with any wiring near the filter enclosure you won't get shocked. 5. Furnace filters are not air cleaners While basic furnace filters will keep most of the dirt and debris out of your air ducts, they are not going to keep the air free of contamination. If your home has excess dust, pet dander, smoke or other contaminants, you should consider a high quality home air filtration system. These HEPA filters are designed to capture the smallest particles that can pass through most 1-inch furnace air filters. Have questions about your furnace filters or your home's heating and cooling system? Call Hickey Plumbing, Air and Electrical. We are always here to help answer your questions.

Heating and Cooling Options For New Additions When adding a new space to your home one of the most important decisions is  how you are going to heat and cool the room. In some cases your existing central heating and cooling system may not be large enough to handle the added air volume. Or, adding air ducts to extend the reach of the existing duct work may not be practical because of the structure of the house or distance from the air handler. Even if the furnace and AC are upgraded to a larger system and the duct system is extended, there can be problems maintaining consistent temperatures throughout the entire home. Here are some solutions to these problems Mini-Split HVAC Systems One option for heating a new addition is to install a split heating and cooling system, also known as a ductless heat pump. A heat pump not only heats in the winter, it also provides cooling in the summer. Because split systems work independently from the home's primary HVAC system – in most cases having its own thermostat – it eliminates the air balancing problems that can occur when expanding an existing HVAC system. Have questions about heating and cooling a new addition to your home? Give Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical a call. Our home comfort specialists can help solve all your heating and cooling challenges.

How Does a Heat Pump Work? With the increasing popularity of efficient heat pumps in some areas of the U.S., many homeowners are asking if a heat pump is a good option for heating and cooling their Lynchburg area home. Here is an overview of how home heat pumps differ from traditional central heating and cooling systems. The main difference between a furnace and a heat pump is that a heat pump can be reversed to both heat and cool a home. Heat pumps consist of two parts: an indoor unit called an air handler and an outdoor unit that is similar to a central air conditioner – called a heat pump. A compressor circulates refrigerant to absorb and release heat as it travels between the indoor and outdoor components of the system. Depending on the season, a heat pump exchanges the cool air with warm air, or the other way around. Even air that's seems cold can retain heat energy. When the temperature is cold outside the heat pump works by extracting the heat and transferring it to an air handler inside the home where it can be distributed through the home's air ducts. When it’s hot outside, the process is reversed to function basically like a central air conditioner, exchanging/removing the warm air inside the home, lowering the temperature. Is a Heat Pump a Good Option for the Lynchburg area? When considering whether to upgrade your central heating and cooling system to a heat pump it's important to understand that, unlike a gas furnace which generates heat by burning fuel, a heat pump can only exchange heat, and cannot deliver the high degree of warm air that is required in colder climates. Luckily, the climate in Lynchburg and the Central Virginia area is mild enough to make heat pumps a reliable and efficient option for heating and cooling most homes. Have questions about heat pumps? Call Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical. We're happy to answer all your home heating and cooling questions.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Furnace? It happens eventually with every old furnace or heat pump, you wake up on a cold winter morning and find that there's no heat and your home is freezing cold. The thermostat is working, but the furnace has quit. If you're lucky, it will be a simple, inexpensive fix. However, if your furnace is getting old and requires more extensive repairs, you'll need to decide whether replacing it with a newer, more efficient furnace is a better option than repairing the furnace again, hoping it will last through the rest of the winter. How long does a gas furnace last? According to the National Association of Home Builder's survey, a gas furnace lasts an average of 15 to 20 years. Consider the age of the unit when deciding whether to repair or replace. At the time a furnace is installed, most technicians will mark down the date the equipment was installed. You can also check the manufacturer's identification plate, which is usually on the inside of the door (be sure the unit is off and cool before checking inside). Record the model and serial number, then contact the manufacturer’s customer service number to obtain the date of manufacture. How Much Will It Cost to Repair the Furnace? As a rule of thumb, if the furnace is more than 10-12 years old and repairing it would cost a 1/3 or more of the cost of installing a new furnace, it may be more economical to replace the unit. Comparing Energy Savings With the cost of natural gas and propane increasing, it's also important to consider the efficiency of your old furnace versus a newer unit. A standard measure of fuel efficiency is the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency number (AFUE). AFUE measures the percentage of the fuel that’s converted to heat rather than being lost through inefficiency. If the furnace is 15 or more years old, it's likely rated around 70 AFUE. New furnaces will have an AFUE of at least 80%, which means you’ll burn 10% less fuel, saving 10% on your heating bill. High efficiency furnaces go as high a 95% AFUE , which could save you 25% on your heating bill. Have questions about your furnace or heat pump? Call Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical. Our expert heating technicians can help evaluate your current system and recommend the best options for keeping your heating system working reliably and efficiently.