When Winter Hits Hard: Heating Tips for Boone’s Coldest Days

Winter in the High Country is beautiful — crisp mornings, occasional snow flurries, and that cozy mountain feel many of us love this time of year. But Boone’s winter weather also creates unique challenges for your home’s HVAC system. With average highs in the 40s and lows frequently dipping near or below freezing, your heating system is working harder than you might realize. At Edmisten Heating & Cooling , we’re here to help you understand how winter conditions affect your HVAC equipment — and how proactive care can keep your home comfortable all season long. 1. Freeze-Thaw Cycles Put Extra Strain on HVAC Components Boone often experiences temperatures that swing above and below freezing throughout the day. These daily freeze-thaw cycles can stress outdoor heat pump components, refrigerant lines, and even the protective coatings on your system. Over time, this stress can lead to cracks, corrosion, or premature wear. What to do: Keep outdoor units clear of ice and snow buildup. Schedule a winter tune-up to catch small problems before they become costly. 2. Your Heating System Is Running More Than You Think Even on milder winter days, the average high stays in the 40s. That means your furnace or heat pump is often needed to keep indoor temperatures comfortable — even when it feels warm outside. If your system isn’t maintained, this additional runtime can expose worn components and inefficient operation. Pro tip: Change your air filter regularly — every 1–3 months — to maintain airflow and efficiency during heavy use. 3. Low Outdoor Temperatures Can Reduce Heat Pump Efficiency Heat pumps are excellent for year-round comfort, but Boone’s colder winter temperatures can reduce their efficiency. As the outdoor air gets colder, the heat pump must work harder to extract heat from the air — and efficiency drops. Solution: Consider a dual-fuel setup (heat pump with a furnace backup) or a high-efficiency heat pump designed for colder climates. 4. Watch for Signs Your System Needs Attention A little awareness can go a long way. During winter ask yourself: Are some rooms colder than others? Do you notice higher heating bills compared to last winter? Is the system making strange noises? If so, it might be time for a professional inspection. 5. Don’t Wait for a Breakdown — Be Proactive Nothing’s worse than a heating system failure on the coldest night of the year. Preventive maintenance — like a winter HVAC inspection — helps ensure: Your system runs efficiently Wear-and-tear issues are caught early You stay warm and worry-free all season Our Boone technicians know how mountain weather impacts HVAC systems and can tailor maintenance or repairs to your home’s needs. Need Help with Your Heating System This Winter? Whether you have a furnace, heat pump, or hybrid system, the experts at Edmisten Heating & Cooling are here to help you stay comfortable in Boone’s winter weather. Call us at 828-264-0130 or schedule online to keep your heating system in peak condition all season long. Check out our services page to learn more about how we can keep your Boone, NC home warm and comfortable all winter long.

As the weather cools and winter settles in around Hickory, NC, now’s the ideal time to make sure your home’s heating system and overall winter-readiness are in order. A few proactive steps now can keep your home comfy, energy bills down, and help prevent common winter headaches — especially when temperatures dip below freezing. Why December Matters for Home Heating In our region, winters can be unpredictable. One day may be mild, the next chilly and damp. That means your furnace or heat pump may move from occasional use to daily heating duty quickly. If your HVAC system hasn’t been tuned up recently, that sudden demand can reveal hidden issues — drafts, blocked airflow, inefficient heating, or even plumbing risks like frozen pipes. Getting ahead of the cold ensures a safer, more efficient, and more comfortable winter for your household. Winter-Prep Checklist: What Every Hickory Homeowner Should Do 1. Change or Clean Your Air Filter & Ensure Proper Airflow Dirty or clogged air filters are one of the most common reasons HVAC systems struggle during winter. Replacing or cleaning your filter before heavy heating begins helps your system breathe easier — improving airflow, reducing wear on the system, and keeping indoor air cleaner. Check your filters at least once every 1–3 months throughout the season. Also, make sure vents and returns are unblocked by furniture, rugs, or décor. Good airflow ensures that warm air circulates evenly throughout your home without overworking your heating system. 2. Test Your Heating System & Thermostat Before cold weather becomes constant, switch your thermostat to “heat” mode and test it. Confirm that the system starts up properly and circulates warm air consistently. If you use a programmable or smart thermostat, update the schedule for winter — lowering the temperature when you’re asleep or away and raising it before you return or wake up. This simple adjustment can significantly cut energy usage while keeping your home comfortable. 3. Seal Drafts, Check Insulation & Protect Against Heat Loss Even a top-performing HVAC system can struggle if warm air is escaping. Walk through your home and check for drafts around windows, doors, attic entries, crawlspaces, and other likely areas. Add weather-stripping or caulk as needed. Good insulation — especially in attics, basements, or crawlspaces — helps maintain warmth and reduces energy loss. Ensuring your home is well-sealed and insulated will keep heating costs down and comfort levels up all winter long. 4. Protect Your Plumbing from Cold Snaps Cold weather increases the risk of frozen or burst pipes — especially in unheated spaces like garages, basements, or crawlspaces. To protect your home: Insulate exposed pipes (in garages, basements or near exterior walls). Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets. On particularly cold nights, let a faucet drip just slightly — moving water is less likely to freeze. Keep indoor temperatures at least modestly warm (55°F or above) if you’re away from home. These steps help prevent costly water damage and ensure your home stays functional through unpredictable winter weather. 5. Schedule a Professional HVAC Winter Tune-Up Even a well-maintained system benefits from a thorough, professional inspection before winter’s worst. A trusted technician can: Clean and inspect the heat exchanger or heat pump components, Test safety controls, electrical connections, and thermostat calibration, Check for airflow issues or duct leaks, Confirm overall efficiency so your system doesn’t have to work harder than necessary. Scheduling this now — before heating demand spikes — helps avoid emergency breakdowns mid-winter and often improves energy efficiency and system lifespan. Why Edmisten Heating & Cooling Should Be Your Winter HVAC Partner At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we’re committed to helping Hickory and surrounding area homeowners stay warm, safe, and efficient all season long. We offer: Complete winter tune-ups and heating system inspections Air filter checks and replacements Advice and service for insulation, ductwork sealing, and draft prevention Plumbing protection guidance to avoid frozen-pipe issues Fast, reliable response whenever you need help Take a moment today to check your filters, test your thermostat, inspect for drafts, and schedule an HVAC tune-up. Protect your plumbing, seal up your home, and make sure airflow stays clear and efficient. Contact Edmisten Heating & Cooling now to book your winter service — and enjoy a worry-free, comfortable, and efficient home all winter long.

As the warmest summer days fade and the mountains begin to cool, many Boone homeowners assume that their HVAC system can quietly slip into a lower-gear mode. But in fact, this transitional period is one of the most important opportunities for boosting comfort, indoor air quality, system efficiency — and for extending your equipment’s life. In this post we’ll explore why the “shoulder season” (between summer and full winter) matters in the High Country, and how you can make smart tweaks with help from Edmisten Heating & Cooling to get more from your system. Why the Transition Season Is Critical in Boone In the High Country, temperature swings become more common: mild days, crisp mornings, cool evenings. Your HVAC system must adapt from high-cooling loads to heating loads — and everything in between. Because you’ll likely have fewer “extreme” events (full blast AC or full blast heat), the system may run less, but inefficiencies become more visible (cold spots, stale air, higher standby energy use). Homes often shift in ventilation patterns: windows may be open sometimes, closed other times; ceiling fans may be in use; insulation and drafts begin to matter more. These changes affect airflow, humidity, and indoor air quality. If you skip optimization now, you may pay for it later when full heating season hits — either in higher bills, discomfort, or earlier component failure. Three Smart Moves Homeowners Should Consider Now 1. Balance Your Airflow for Mixed-Weather Operation Even when you’re neither fully cooling nor fully heating, good airflow is crucial. If you begin noticing rooms that are warmer than others, vents being closed, or odd circulation patterns (especially in multi-level or attic/crawl-space homes common around Boone), now is the time: Inspect fl­oor-to-ceiling temperature differentials and see if upstairs is lagging. Make sure supply vents are open and return vents aren’t blocked. If you have zones or a multi-level home, a quick balancing check can reveal if your system is forcing extra runtime. This step helps avoid hidden inefficiencies before they worsen in full winter. 2. Use Humidity & Ventilation Wisely Your system isn’t just about temperature — especially in transitional months, indoor air quality and humidity begin to matter more. In Boone: Cooler outside air can tempt you to crack windows, but humidity and allergens may still be present. If you’re closing your home more (windows, doors) you may trap stale air, particulate matter, or even excess moisture in basements/crawlspaces. Consider upgrading the filter, clearing debris in return ducts, and verifying that your HVAC fresh-air or air-exchange components (if applicable) are functioning. A system optimized now will pre-empt many comfort complaints later (musty smells, cold damp spots, congestion/air-quality issues). 3. Rethink Thermostat Strategy & Standby Efficiency When days are mild but evenings are cool, your thermostat and how the system is scheduled become powerful tools. Some ideas: Switch the fan mode to “Auto” instead of “On” so that the system only circulates air when needed. Program your thermostat to account for daytime warmth and evening cool: allow the system to “back off” during warmer afternoons and ramp when temps drop, rather than keeping constant set-points. If you don’t yet use a smart thermostat, this is a great time to consider one — operational patterns are less extreme now, so the system can “learn” efficiently and you maximize value. The result: less wasted runtime, longer component lifespan, and more consistent comfort. Why Boone Homeowners Should Choose Edmisten Heating & Cooling Local expertise: Boone’s terrain, elevation and seasonal swings present unique HVAC challenges — the Edmisten team understands them. Comprehensive comfort approach: They don’t just “flip the switch” for heating or cooling; they consider airflow, indoor air quality, thermostat/humidity interplay, and the whole-home system. Proactive mindset: By optimizing now, you avoid urgent repairs later when costs jump and service availability thins. Trusted history: With decades in the High Country, Edmisten is a known local resource for homeowners who want reliable, efficient systems and better comfort all year long. Ready to Get More from Your HVAC System? Don’t wait until full-on winter to find out something’s off. Contact Edmisten Heating & Cooling today at 828-264-0130 or schedule a visit online . We’ll walk through your system’s current condition, make the right tweaks for the transitional season, and help your home deliver better comfort, cleaner air — and lower bills.

As cooler weather settles into the High Country, many homeowners in Boone, NC are preparing their heating systems for the season ahead. If you’re considering a replacement or upgrade, one of the most common questions is: Should I choose a furnace or a heat pump? Both options can keep your home warm, but they work differently and have unique advantages. At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we want to help you make an informed choice based on your comfort needs, home type, and budget. Furnaces: Traditional & Powerful Heating A furnace generates heat by burning fuel (usually natural gas or propane) or using electricity, then blowing the warm air through ductwork. Pros : Strong, consistent heat output — great for colder Boone winters Works quickly to heat larger homes Reliable with proper maintenance Considerations: Requires ductwork Gas furnaces need proper ventilation and regular safety checks Can use more energy compared to heat pumps during milder weather Heat Pumps: Efficient Year-Round Comfort A heat pump doesn’t create heat — it transfers it. In winter, it pulls heat energy from the outdoor air and moves it indoors. In summer, it reverses to provide cooling. Pros : Provides both heating and cooling in one system Highly energy-efficient, especially in moderate climates Lower monthly utility bills compared to electric furnaces Considerations : May struggle to keep up during extremely cold snaps in Boone Often needs a supplemental heat source (like a furnace or electric backup) Outdoor unit requires regular maintenance to stay efficient Which Is Right for You? Choose a Furnace if… you want strong, reliable heating power and don’t mind pairing it with a separate cooling system in summer. Choose a Heat Pump if… you want an energy-efficient, all-in-one system and are comfortable with the possibility of supplemental heat on the coldest mountain nights. Both furnaces and heat pumps can keep your Boone, NC home warm and comfortable this fall and winter. The best choice depends on your home’s setup, your budget, and how much efficiency matters to you. To learn more about some of the heat pumps and furnaces we carry and install here at Edmisten Heating & Cooling, check out our product pages. At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we install and service both furnaces and heat pumps, and we’ll help you decide which system makes the most sense for your home. Call us today to schedule a consultation and get your home ready for the cooler months ahead.

As August comes to a close in Boone, NC, the crisp mountain air signals the approach of fall. While the cooler temperatures are a welcome change, they also mean it's time to prepare your HVAC system for the upcoming season. At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we understand the unique challenges that fall brings to your heating system, and we're here to help you ensure your home stays warm and comfortable. Why Fall Maintenance Matters Fall in Boone can be unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating between chilly mornings and warmer afternoons. This variability can put additional strain on your HVAC system. Regular maintenance during this transitional period helps: Prevent Unexpected Breakdowns: Addressing minor issues before they become major problems can prevent inconvenient system failures when you need heat the most. Improve Efficiency: A well-maintained system operates more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. Extend System Lifespan: Regular check-ups can extend the life of your HVAC system, saving you money on premature replacements. Key Maintenance Tasks To prepare your HVAC system for fall, consider the following maintenance tasks: Replace Air Filters: Dirty filters can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. Replacing them ensures optimal performance. Inspect Ductwork: Leaky ducts can lead to heat loss. Have your ductwork inspected and sealed to improve efficiency. Check Thermostat Settings: Ensure your thermostat is calibrated correctly to maintain consistent temperatures. Clean Coils and Fins: Dirty coils and fins can cause the system to overheat. Cleaning them helps maintain proper airflow. Schedule a Professional Inspection: A licensed technician can perform a thorough inspection, identifying potential issues and ensuring your system is ready for the colder months. Conclusion Preparing your HVAC system for fall is essential to ensure comfort and efficiency throughout the season. At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we offer comprehensive maintenance services tailored to the needs of Boone homeowners. Contact us today to schedule your fall HVAC maintenance and enjoy peace of mind knowing your system is ready for the cooler months ahead. Check out our maintenance service page to learn more about how preventative maintenance can keep your Boone, NC home comfortable all year long.

Summers in Boone, NC might be cooler than in other parts of the state, but that doesn’t mean your HVAC system isn’t working hard. Between humidity, temperature swings, and mountain weather, your air conditioning system has its own unique challenges in the High Country. At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we’ve spent years helping Boone homeowners stay comfortable all summer long. Here are the top 5 HVAC problems we see every summer—and what you can do to help prevent them. 1. Frozen Evaporator Coils Yes, even in the summer your system can freeze up. Frozen evaporator coils are often caused by restricted airflow (usually from a dirty air filter) or low refrigerant levels. When airflow drops, moisture condenses and freezes on the coil—causing your system to stop cooling effectively. What to watch for: Weak airflow from vents Ice visible on indoor unit or lines AC running but not cooling Pro tip: Change your air filter every 1–2 months and schedule regular maintenance to avoid this issue. 2. Low Refrigerant Levels Low refrigerant means your system can’t properly cool the air. This usually indicates a leak, which needs to be located and repaired. Boone’s elevation and shifting temps can increase wear on HVAC lines and joints, making leaks more likely over time. Signs include: Warm air blowing from vents Longer cooling cycles Hissing or bubbling sounds near the unit Solution: Call our team to locate the leak, recharge your system, and get things running smoothly again. 3. Clogged Condensate Drain Line Your AC removes moisture from the air, which drains through a line to the outside. But in humid climates—yes, even in the mountains—algae and debris can clog this line, causing water to back up into your home or shut off your system entirely. Common symptoms: Water around your indoor unit Musty odors Sudden AC shutdowns Regular inspections and cleaning during seasonal tune-ups can prevent blockages and water damage. 4. Thermostat Issues In Boone’s variable climate, we see thermostats struggle with incorrect readings or sudden system changes. Sometimes, it’s just an aging thermostat—or it could be a poor location (too close to windows or vents) throwing off your temperature control. What to look for: Inconsistent indoor temps System short cycling or not turning on Unresponsive or blank thermostat Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to improve accuracy and efficiency. 5. Outdoor Unit Obstructions Boone’s lush summers are beautiful—but leaves, grass, and even small critters can obstruct your outdoor condenser unit. When airflow is restricted, your AC system has to work harder, which can lead to overheating and eventual failure. What you can do: Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit Gently hose off debris Check for signs of nesting or animal activity Beat the Heat with Expert HVAC Care in Boone, NC At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we know the unique HVAC challenges that come with living in the mountains. Our local team is here to keep your system running efficiently so you can stay cool and worry-free all summer long. Need a repair, tune-up, or just have questions about your system? 📞 Call us today or schedule your service online

Summer in the High Country can be just as demanding on your air conditioner as any southern city—especially when temperatures spike in Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and surrounding areas. While your AC is a lifesaver, constantly running it at full blast can lead to high energy bills, increased wear and tear, and even system failure. At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we want to help you stay cool and efficient. Here’s how: 1. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely Ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature, but they do circulate cool air more effectively. Set them to rotate counterclockwise during summer months. This helps distribute the cool air from your AC and makes the room feel cooler—so you can raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. 2. Close Curtains and Blinds During the Day Sunlight streaming through your windows is beautiful—but it also heats up your home fast. Invest in blackout curtains or thermal shades, especially on south- and west-facing windows. Blocking the sun during peak hours keeps your indoor temperature lower and reduces the strain on your air conditioner. 3. Seal Air Leaks Drafts aren’t just a winter problem. Leaky windows, doors, and ductwork can let cool air escape and let warm air in. If you’re noticing uneven cooling in your Boone home, it might be time to inspect your insulation and weatherstripping—or call us for a quick home energy audit. 4. Program Your Thermostat Smart thermostats are a game changer. Set it to increase the temperature slightly when you're at work or asleep. A 2–3 degree change during off-peak hours can make a big difference in your monthly bill without sacrificing comfort. Don’t have one? Edmisten Heating & Cooling can install and program a smart thermostat for you. Check out the smart thermostats we carry and install today. 5. Avoid Heat-Generating Appliances During the Hottest Hours Try to cook, do laundry, or run the dishwasher in the early morning or late evening. These appliances put off a surprising amount of heat and can make your AC work overtime. Consider grilling outdoors when it’s hot—Boone’s mountain evenings are perfect for it. 6. Keep Your HVAC System Maintained An efficient AC is a cool AC. Schedule seasonal maintenance with Edmisten Heating & Cooling to make sure your system is running at peak performance. We’ll clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure all components are working properly—so you don’t run into surprises on a 90-degree day. 7. Add Shade Outside Your Home Planting trees, installing awnings, or placing reflective film on windows can all reduce the amount of heat that enters your home. Not only does this lower cooling needs, but it also adds to your property’s value and curb appeal. Trust Edmisten Heating & Cooling for Your Comfort Needs For over 50 years, Edmisten Heating & Cooling has helped Boone and the High Country beat the heat without breaking the bank. Whether you need a seasonal tune-up, a smart thermostat upgrade, or a full AC replacement, our experienced technicians are here to help. 📞 Call us at 828-264-0130

When spring rolls around in Boone, most of us are eager to open the windows, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and leave the winter chill behind. But there’s one thing too many homeowners forget during this seasonal transition— scheduling spring AC maintenance. At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we know firsthand how important routine maintenance is, especially in a place like Boone, where the seasons change quickly and summers can be surprisingly warm. Skipping this crucial service might not seem like a big deal—until your AC breaks down during a July heatwave. Here’s why putting off spring maintenance can cost you more than you think. 1. Higher Energy Bills Without regular maintenance, your air conditioning system has to work harder to cool your home. Dirty coils, clogged filters, and low refrigerant levels can reduce efficiency, forcing your system to run longer and use more electricity. Boone residents who skip spring tune-ups often notice a spike in their energy bills as the summer heat sets in. 2. Unexpected Breakdowns Imagine your AC giving out during the hottest weekend in July—right when you have guests in town. That’s a common scenario we see in the Boone area. Most summer breakdowns are due to issues that could have been caught and resolved during a spring inspection. Our skilled technicians at Edmisten Heating & Cooling check for worn-out parts, refrigerant leaks, and electrical issues that might otherwise lead to costly repairs—or even full system replacement. 3. Shortened System Lifespan Your air conditioner is a major investment. Like a car, it needs regular servicing to stay in good shape. Skipping annual maintenance can shave years off its life. In Boone’s climate, where ACs often sit dormant during the cold months, spring is the perfect time to make sure everything is functioning properly before the summer demand hits. 4. Poor Indoor Air Quality Boone’s natural beauty brings with it pollen, dust, and other allergens—especially in spring. Without maintenance, your AC can circulate those particles throughout your home. A professional tune-up includes cleaning or replacing filters and inspecting your system for mold or mildew buildup, helping you breathe easier all summer long. 5. Reduced Comfort When You Need It Most Boone summers may not be as intense as those in the low country, but they can still get hot and humid—especially in July and August. A poorly maintained AC might not keep up when you need it most. Spring maintenance ensures your system runs at peak performance, keeping your home consistently cool and comfortable. Schedule Your Spring AC Tune-Up Today At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we’re proud to serve our neighbors here in Boone with honest, reliable HVAC service. Don’t wait until your AC quits on you in the middle of summer. Call us today to schedule your spring maintenance appointment and enjoy peace of mind all season long. To learn more about how we can help keep you and your home cool and comfortable all summer long, check out our air conditioning maintenance service page today.

Spring in Boone, NC means blooming flowers, longer days, and—for many—seasonal allergies. While you’re enjoying the beauty of the High Country outdoors, you might not realize that the air inside your home could be making you feel worse. At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we believe your home should be a place of comfort and clean air, especially during spring when pollen, dust, and other allergens are at their peak. Let’s look at why indoor air quality (IAQ) matters during spring—and how you can improve it. The Hidden Problem: Poor Indoor Air Quality Most people spend the majority of their time indoors, yet indoor air can often be 2–5 times more polluted than outdoor air. In spring, common indoor pollutants include: Pollen tracked in from outside Mold spores from excess humidity Dust mites stirred up during spring cleaning Pet dander VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from cleaning products If you're experiencing symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or respiratory irritation inside your home, your indoor air quality could be to blame. How to Improve Indoor Air Quality This Spring 1. Upgrade Your Air Filter Standard filters trap large particles, but they may not catch fine allergens like pollen. High-efficiency filters or HEPA filters offer better protection—ask us what’s best for your system. 2. Add an Air Purifier A whole-home air purifier can eliminate a wide range of airborne pollutants, including bacteria, allergens, and odors. It's a smart investment for families dealing with allergies or asthma. 3. Control Humidity Boone’s spring weather can bring damp, rainy days that lead to high indoor humidity—a breeding ground for mold and mildew. A whole-home dehumidifier can help maintain ideal humidity levels between 30–50%. 4. Schedule a Duct Cleaning If it’s been years since your ducts were cleaned, now is the time. Dust, allergens, and debris build up in your ductwork and circulate every time your HVAC system runs. 5. Let Your HVAC System Help Your heating and cooling system plays a big role in indoor air quality. A clean, well-maintained system filters and circulates air more effectively, keeping your home fresher and healthier. Breathe Easier with Edmisten Heating & Cooling At Edmisten Heating & Cooling, we’re proud to help Boone homeowners breathe easier all season long. Whether you’re looking for filter upgrades, air purifiers, or a full HVAC checkup, we have solutions tailored to the High Country’s unique environment. Ready to Improve Your Home’s Air Quality? Contact us today to schedule a spring indoor air quality assessment or HVAC tune-up. Let’s make your home healthier and more comfortable—so you can enjoy spring without the sniffles. Check out our services page to learn more about how Edmisten Heating & Cooling can keep your Boone, NC comfortable all spring and summer long.