Common Heating & Air Conditioning Questions & Answers

5 Things to Know about Leak Detection BEFORE You Call a Plumber!

Enter to win a spa day giveaway for two to celebrate the children's return to school after summer break. Contest sponsored by Gwyn Services.

As the flowers begin to bloom and the temperatures rise in Winston-Salem, NC, it's time to ensure that your HVAC system is ready for the change in seasons. Proper maintenance and preparation can help you stay comfortable and avoid potential issues as spring arrives. As your trusted HVAC contractor in Winston-Salem, the Gwyn Services team is here to provide you with essential tips for preparing your HVAC system for the upcoming season. Schedule a Professional Maintenance Service Start the spring season off right by scheduling a comprehensive HVAC maintenance service. Our experienced technicians will inspect your system, clean vital components, lubricate moving parts, and address any potential issues. Regular maintenance not only ensures that your HVAC system operates efficiently but also helps prevent costly breakdowns down the road. Change Your Air Filters Over the winter months, your HVAC system's air filters may have become clogged with dust, pollen, and other debris. Replace these filters to ensure optimal airflow and maintain good indoor air quality. Clean air filters not only promote better respiratory health but also improve your system's efficiency. Check Your Thermostat Settings Adjust your thermostat settings to accommodate the changing temperatures of spring. Consider programming your thermostat to adjust temperatures automatically based on your schedule to save energy. Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat allows for greater control and energy savings, making it a worthwhile investment for Winston-Salem homeowners. Inspect Your Outdoor Unit Take a moment to inspect your outdoor HVAC unit for any signs of damage or debris buildup. Clear away leaves, twigs, and other debris to ensure proper airflow to the unit. Additionally, check for any leaks or unusual noises coming from your unit, as these could indicate potential issues that need attention. By following these essential tips for preparing your HVAC system for spring in Winston-Salem, you can enjoy a comfortable and energy-efficient home throughout the season. As your local HVAC experts, Gwyn Services is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your spring HVAC maintenance service and ensure your system is ready for the warmer weather ahead!

In the vibrant city of Winston-Salem, NC, where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically throughout the year, your HVAC system serves as the lifeline of indoor comfort. Yet, amid the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to overlook the importance of regular HVAC maintenance. In this blog, the Gwyn Services team, your trusted HVAC contractor in Winston-Salem, NC, delve into the reasons why regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity, efficiency, and reliability of your HVAC system, as well as the comfort and well-being of your home and family. Optimizing System Efficiency Regular HVAC maintenance is the cornerstone of system efficiency. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris accumulate within the system, obstructing airflow and hindering performance. Routine maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and component inspections, ensures that your HVAC system operates at peak efficiency, minimizing energy consumption and utility costs. Prolonging System Lifespan Your HVAC system is a significant investment, and regular maintenance is key to maximizing its lifespan. Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to premature wear and tear, resulting in costly repairs or even system failure. By scheduling regular maintenance with our team, you can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system and protect your investment for years to come. Preventing Costly Repairs An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and this holds true for HVAC maintenance. Minor issues left unaddressed can escalate into major problems, requiring expensive repairs or replacements. Routine maintenance allows our HVAC professionals to identify and address potential issues early on, preventing costly breakdowns and disruptions to your comfort. Improving Indoor Air Quality Indoor air quality plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of your family. A neglected HVAC system can harbor mold, bacteria, and allergens, circulating them throughout your home and exacerbating respiratory issues. Regular maintenance includes cleaning and replacing air filters, reducing indoor pollutants and improving air quality for a healthier indoor environment. Enhancing Comfort and Convenience Ultimately, HVAC maintenance is about ensuring your comfort and convenience year-round. A well-maintained system operates quietly, efficiently, and reliably, providing consistent comfort for you and your family. With regular maintenance, you can enjoy uninterrupted comfort and avoid unexpected disruptions to your daily life. Regular heating and air conditioning maintenance is not just a luxury but a necessity for homeowners in Winston-Salem, NC. By investing in routine maintenance, you can optimize system efficiency, prolong lifespan, prevent costly repairs, improve indoor air quality, ensure safety, maintain warranty coverage, and enhance overall comfort and convenience for your home and family. Contact the Gwyn Services team today to schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment and experience the benefits of a well-maintained system firsthand. To learn more about our heating and cooling services, check out our service page today!

Advice from an Electrician

As the winter chill settles in Winston-Salem, NC, ensuring your home stays warm and cozy becomes a top priority. As your local HVAC experts, the Gwyn Services team understands the importance of a reliable heating system during the colder months. In this blog post, we'll share invaluable winter heating tips to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient all season long. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection The first step to a warm and worry-free winter is a thorough inspection of your heating system. A qualified HVAC technician can identify potential issues, clean and maintain your equipment, and ensure that it operates at peak efficiency. Seal Drafts and Insulate Don't let precious heat escape through unnoticed gaps. Check for drafts around windows and doors, and seal them with weather stripping or caulking. Additionally, proper insulation in your home can significantly reduce heat loss, making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain a consistent temperature. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings Take advantage of programmable thermostats to create a heating schedule that aligns with your daily routine. Lower the temperature when you're away or asleep, and program it to warm up just before you return or wake up. This not only ensures comfort but also contributes to energy savings. Regularly Replace Air Filters A clogged or dirty air filter can impede airflow and force your heating system to work harder. Check your filters monthly and replace them as needed. This simple task not only enhances indoor air quality but also helps your HVAC system run efficiently. Invest in a Humidifier Cold air tends to be dry, and running your heating system can further reduce indoor humidity. Consider using a humidifier to maintain a comfortable level of moisture in the air. This not only promotes a cozier atmosphere but also helps prevent issues like dry skin and irritated sinuses. Keep Vents and Registers Clear Ensure that furniture, curtains, or other obstacles do not block the vents and registers throughout your home. Unrestricted airflow is crucial for the efficient operation of your heating system. Winter in Winston-Salem can be delightful when your home is a warm sanctuary from the cold. By following these Gwyn Services approved tips, you'll not only stay warm but also optimize your heating system's performance and energy efficiency. If you have any concerns about your HVAC system or need professional assistance, feel free to reach out to us. To learn more about our professional heating and air conditioning services, check out our service page today. Here's to a cozy and comfortable winter season!

As the crisp chill of fall sets in and winter quickly approaches, ensuring your heating and air conditioning system is ready to tackle colder temperatures becomes paramount. At Gwyn Services, we understand the importance of a well-prepared heating system in your Winston-Salem, NC home. Let's delve into a comprehensive guide on how to get your HVAC system winter-ready: Schedule a Professional Inspection Start by scheduling a professional HVAC inspection. Our experienced technicians will examine your entire system, checking for potential issues, cleaning components, and ensuring everything is in optimal condition. Check and Calibrate Your Thermostat Ensure your thermostat is functioning accurately. Calibrate it for the colder temperatures and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for energy savings and customized heating schedules. Inspect and Seal Ductwork Leaky ducts can significantly reduce heating efficiency. Our technicians will inspect your ductwork for any leaks and seal them, ensuring that the warm air circulates effectively throughout your home. Check Your Insulation Adequate insulation is key to retaining heat. Inspect and upgrade insulation as needed, especially in attics, basements, and crawl spaces, to prevent heat loss. Consider a Humidifier Colder air tends to be drier, which can affect indoor air quality and comfort. Explore the benefits of a humidifier to maintain a balanced and comfortable humidity level. By taking these proactive steps, you're not only ensuring a warm and comfortable Winston-Salem home, but also potentially reducing energy bills and preventing costly heating and furnace repairs. At Gwyn Services, we are committed to helping you navigate the colder seasons with confidence. Schedule your HVAC system preparation with us, and let's ensure a cozy and worry-free winter for your home. To learn more about our professional heating and air conditioning services, check out our services page today!

As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to unfold in Winston-Salem, NC, it's time to think about preparing your home for the cooler months ahead. Your HVAC system is a vital component in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. To ensure it operates efficiently throughout the fall season, our HVAC experts here at Gwyn Services in Winston-Salem, NC, have compiled a guide to help you recognize the top signs indicating your HVAC system may be in need of a fall tune-up. Reduced Airflow Sign: Weaker airflow from your vents. Why it's a sign: Reduced airflow can result from clogged air filters, a malfunctioning blower motor, or blockages in the ductwork. Solution: A fall tune-up involves inspecting and cleaning air filters, ensuring the blower motor functions correctly, and checking for any obstructions in the ducts to restore optimal airflow. Unusual Noises Sign: Strange sounds like banging, rattling, or hissing. Why it's a sign: Unusual noises often indicate loose or damaged components, which, if ignored, can lead to more significant issues. Solution: During a fall tune-up, our HVAC technician will inspect the system for loose parts, lubricate moving components, and address potential issues causing the noises. Inconsistent Temperature Sign: Uneven heating or cooling throughout your home. Why it's a sign: Inconsistent temperatures may be a result of thermostat issues, ductwork leaks, or an HVAC system that's not appropriately sized for your home. Solution: A fall tune-up includes calibrating the thermostat, inspecting and sealing ductwork for leaks, and ensuring the HVAC system's capacity aligns with your home's needs. Higher Energy Bills Sign: Sudden increases in your energy bills without an apparent change in usage. Why it's a sign: Reduced efficiency can lead to higher energy consumption and increased utility costs. Solution: A fall tune-up focuses on optimizing the system's performance, cleaning key components, and ensuring all parts are functioning efficiently, ultimately saving you money on energy bills. Frequent Cycling Sign: Your HVAC system turns on and off more frequently than usual. Why it's a sign: Frequent cycling, known as short cycling, may indicate issues with the thermostat, air filters, or a malfunctioning unit. Solution: A fall tune-up involves inspecting and cleaning air filters, calibrating the thermostat, and diagnosing the root cause of short cycling to ensure the system operates smoothly. Aging HVAC System Sign: Your HVAC system is over 10-15 years old. Why it's a sign: Aging systems are more prone to wear and tear, making regular tune-ups essential to prolong their lifespan and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Solution: Fall tune-ups become increasingly crucial for older HVAC systems, including checking for worn-out parts, lubricating components, and ensuring overall functionality. Recognizing the signs that your HVAC system needs a fall tune-up is a proactive way to ensure your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient in Winston-Salem, NC. Don't wait until a minor issue becomes a major problem. Contact our HVAC experts here at Gwyn Services today to schedule a comprehensive fall tune-up, and let us ensure your home stays comfortably warm throughout the autumn season. To learn more about our HVAC services, check out our service page today!

When it comes to staying warm during the crisp Winston-Salem, NC fall and winter season, having the right heating system in place is essential. With various options available, it's crucial to choose the one that best suits your home's needs and your family's comfort. As your trusted HVAC contractor in Winston-Salem, the Gwyn Services team is here to help you make an informed decision. Keep reading below to learn about how to choose the right heating system for your Winston-Salem, NC home. Understanding Your Heating Options Furnaces : Furnaces are the most common heating system in the United States. They use gas or electricity to heat air, which is then distributed throughout your home via ductwork. Heat Pumps : Heat pumps are versatile and energy-efficient systems that provide both heating and cooling. They transfer heat between the indoor and outdoor units to maintain comfortable temperatures. Ductless Mini-Splits : Ideal for homes without ductwork, ductless mini-split systems offer zoned heating and cooling by connecting multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit. Key Factors to Consider 1. Climate and Weather Conditions: Winston-Salem experiences cold winters, so a heating system with the capacity to handle low temperatures is vital. 2. Energy Efficiency: Evaluate the system's energy efficiency rating. Higher efficiency units can help you save on energy bills and reduce your environmental footprint. 3. Fuel Source: Decide between gas, electricity, or other fuel sources based on availability and cost-effectiveness in your area. 4. Size and Layout of Your Home: The size and layout of your home will determine the heating system's size and distribution needs. Make sure the system you choose is appropriately sized for optimal performance. 5. Ductwork: If your home has existing ductwork, a furnace or traditional heat pump may be a cost-effective choice. For homes without ducts, consider ductless mini-splits or other alternatives. 6. Budget and Long-Term Costs: Consider your budget not only for the initial purchase and installation but also for long-term maintenance and operating costs. 7. Heating and Cooling Needs: If you need both heating and cooling, a heat pump may be a convenient and efficient solution. 8. Environmental Impact: Explore eco-friendly options, such as high-efficiency systems and heat pumps, to minimize your environmental impact. 9. Maintenance and Service: Research the availability of local HVAC contractors who can provide regular maintenance and emergency service for your chosen heating system. 10. Warranty and Support: Look for heating systems that come with comprehensive warranties and responsive customer support to ensure peace of mind. Ultimately, choosing the right heating system for your Winston-Salem home involves assessing your specific needs, budget, and environmental considerations. To make an informed decision, we recommend consulting with our experienced HVAC professionals. We can assess your home's requirements, discuss your options, and help you select the heating system that will keep your family cozy throughout the winter season. At Gwyn Services, we're committed to delivering comfort and efficiency to your home. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on the path to a warm and comfortable winter. To learn more about some of the heat pumps and furnaces we carry and install here at Gwyn Services, check out our products page today or give us a call!