July 11, 2022
Tips to Lower Your Cooling Bill This Summer
Everyone is looking for ways to save money. Before you go to the extreme of turning off your air conditioning system in order to save on your energy costs, why don't you try some of these strategies?
Ways to Stay Cool While Lowering Your Cooling Costs
We hate to break it to you, but if you are searching for ways to lower your cooling bill, you have turned into your father (or mother!).
Here are some tried and true strategies that your parents may have also used to keep the house cool during the summer.
Here are some tried and true strategies that your parents may have also used to keep the house cool during the summer.
Turn on the ceiling fan.
A ceiling fan helps disperse cool air more efficiently and may allow you to raise the thermostat by as much as four degrees without feeling too uncomfortable. But, of course, make sure you turn off the fan when you leave the room to increase your energy savings.
Use a programmable thermostat.
Increase the temperature in your home when you know you will be out to decrease your cooling bill. However, you might program your smart thermostat so that you walk into a house when it is at a comfortable temperature.
Are you not sure how to program your thermostat? Ask your local heating and cooling company to help.
Are you not sure how to program your thermostat? Ask your local heating and cooling company to help.
Limit the heat-rising activities in your home.
Don't use the oven, dishwasher, or clothes dryer during the heat of the day. These activities will increase your home's temperature and make your AC work harder. Instead, use your air fryer or microwave, and wait until the temperatures drop to run the dishwasher or clothes dryer.
Use your bathroom exhaust fan carefully.
While we encourage using ceiling fans and fans to increase the airflow in the room you are occupying, it is not a good idea to leave your bathroom exhaust fan on all day. Instead, after showering, leave it on for 20–30 minutes to help clear the moisture out of the air. Then turn it off, so it doesn't suck the cool air out of the house.
Install a radiant barrier in your attic.
A radiant barrier should be installed across the underside of your roof to arm your home against heating and cooling leakage.
Purchase energy-efficient doors and windows.
Keep the hot air out, and the cool air in during the summer by ensuring you don't have any air leaks around your doors and windows.
Train your children.
Train your children to close the door, turn off the lights, and use fans. Once you have trained them to save energy, write a tell-all book to teach the rest of us how you did it.
Make sure your air conditioner is working as it should.
Last but not least, make sure your air conditioner is functioning properly. Have your local HVAC company examine it when the temperatures start to rise.
Hire Schomburg Heating and Cooling to Perform a Check-Up on Your Air Conditioning System
St. Joseph Mo homeowners! The temperatures are starting to rise.
Schedule an appointment
with your local heating and cooling experts at Schomburg!

By Greg Schomburg
•
March 31, 2026
As the crisp air of autumn begins to roll in, Parkville, MO, residents start to prepare for cooler temperatures. While it’s tempting to just adjust your thermostat and settle in for the season, fall is actually the most crucial time to tune up your HVAC system. Preventing future problems and ensuring your heating system is ready for the colder months can save you time, money, and discomfort later. At Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc., we’ve been serving the Parkville community for over 30 years. As a trusted HVAC contractor, we understand that a fall HVAC tune-up is one of the best things you can do to keep your home comfortable throughout the winter. In this blog post, we’ll explain why fall is the ideal time for maintenance and the long-term benefits it provides for you, your family, and your HVAC system. What Is a Fall HVAC Tune-Up? An HVAC tune-up is a comprehensive inspection and maintenance service provided by a professional technician. During a fall HVAC tune-up, your technician will inspect both the heating and cooling components of your system, including your furnace, air handler, and ductwork. Some of the tasks performed during a fall HVAC tune-up include: Cleaning the furnace and blower motor Inspecting the thermostat for proper calibration Checking and replacing the air filter Lubricating mechanical parts to prevent wear Checking gas connections and safety devices Inspecting and cleaning the coils, condenser, and evaporator Testing the heating system to ensure it runs efficiently A fall tune-up ensures your HVAC system is running efficiently and safely, minimizing the chances of a breakdown during the cold winter months. Why Are Fall HVAC Tune-Ups So Important for Parkville Residents? 1. Prepare for the Cold Weather Ahead Here in Parkville, winters can be harsh, and the last thing you want is for your furnace to break down on one of the coldest nights of the year. A fall HVAC tune-up helps ensure that your heating system is in top shape before you need it most. A well-maintained furnace is less likely to malfunction when the temperatures dip, allowing you to stay warm and comfortable all season long. The fall tune-up ensures that the furnace is running at peak efficiency, with all components working in harmony to distribute heat throughout your home. Without proper maintenance, your heating system might struggle to heat your home effectively, resulting in inconsistent temperatures or even breakdowns. 2. Increased Energy Efficiency With energy costs continuing to rise, every homeowner in Parkville is looking for ways to cut down on their utility bills. A furnace or HVAC system that hasn’t been properly maintained will run less efficiently, consuming more energy to heat your home. During a fall tune-up, our technicians will clean your furnace and make adjustments to ensure it’s running as efficiently as possible. Here’s how a tune-up helps improve energy efficiency: Clean filters and components reduce energy waste and allow your system to work more efficiently. Proper thermostat calibration ensures your system isn’t wasting energy by overheating or overcooling your home. Lubrication of moving parts reduces friction, allowing your system to run smoothly and with less energy. By investing in a fall HVAC tune-up, you’re not only improving the lifespan of your system but also reducing your energy consumption, which results in lower energy bills. 3. Prevent Costly Repairs and Breakdowns One of the biggest benefits of a fall HVAC tune-up is the early detection of issues. Catching small problems before they become major issues can save you thousands of dollars in emergency repairs. Whether it’s a dirty filter, a worn-out belt, or a loose connection, a tune-up allows technicians to identify and fix problems before they cause a complete system breakdown. If you wait until the winter months to notice problems with your furnace, you risk being without heat during the coldest part of the year. Regular fall tune-ups help prevent inconvenient breakdowns, especially when you need heat the most. 4. Extend the Lifespan of Your HVAC System Just like any other appliance, your HVAC system will last longer if it’s properly maintained. Without routine maintenance, the wear and tear on components can cause the system to fail prematurely. A well-maintained HVAC system can last up to 20 years, while one that isn’t maintained properly may only last half as long. During a fall HVAC tune-up, technicians will clean and lubricate moving parts, inspect safety features, and ensure that your furnace is in optimal working condition. This kind of proactive care helps ensure that your system continues to run smoothly for years to come. 5. Improve Indoor Air Quality As the weather cools down, families in Parkville spend more time indoors with the windows shut tight. This can lead to a buildup of indoor air pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and allergens. A fall HVAC tune-up doesn’t just check the furnace—it also focuses on improving indoor air quality. Cleaning the air filter helps trap dust, dirt, and allergens before they circulate through your home. Checking the ductwork ensures that there are no leaks or blockages that might affect airflow and air quality. Cleaning the coils helps keep your system running efficiently, preventing dust buildup that can affect air quality. By scheduling a fall HVAC tune-up, you can ensure that your system is distributing clean, healthy air throughout your home, creating a more comfortable environment for everyone. 6. Ensure Your System Is Safe Heating systems can pose safety risks if they aren’t properly maintained. One of the biggest safety concerns with furnaces is the risk of carbon monoxide leaks, which can be dangerous and even deadly. A fall tune-up will include a thorough inspection of your furnace’s safety mechanisms, including gas connections and exhaust systems. During the tune-up, our technicians will check for any potential safety hazards, ensuring that your heating system is running safely and efficiently. How Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc. Can Help At Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc., we specialize in HVAC maintenance, including fall tune-ups for Parkville residents. Our expert technicians are highly trained and experienced in ensuring your heating system runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently throughout the colder months. We offer affordable HVAC tune-up services that not only help you prepare your system for winter but also extend its lifespan, improve efficiency, and reduce repair costs. Our fall tune-up package is designed to keep your home comfortable all year long, giving you peace of mind knowing that your HVAC system is in good hands. Schedule Your Fall HVAC Tune-Up Today Don’t wait until the temperature drops to start thinking about your furnace. Now is the perfect time to schedule a fall HVAC tune-up to ensure your home stays warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient this winter. Contact Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc. today to schedule your tune-up. We’re here to help Parkville residents get the most out of their HVAC systems, no matter the season.

By Greg Schomburg
•
March 31, 2026
As spring arrives in Platte City, Missouri, the weather can be unpredictable—one day chilly, the next warm and sunny. While this transition may seem like a time to put your HVAC system on the back burner, it's actually one of the most important seasons to give your system some attention. At Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc., we’ve been serving our community for over 30 years, and we know exactly how crucial it is to take care of both your heating and cooling systems during this time of year. Spring is the perfect time to make sure your HVAC system is ready for the changing temperatures. Whether you're looking to keep your home warm during a cold spell or cool off when the heat picks up, your HVAC system is essential for year-round comfort. Here’s why now is the best time to schedule HVAC services in Platte City. Why Spring is the Ideal Time for HVAC Maintenance 1. Transition from Heating to Cooling As we bid farewell to winter, the weather can fluctuate between chilly mornings and warmer afternoons. This changeover means your heating system will still be in use early in the spring, but your air conditioning will soon become necessary. It's important to ensure both systems are functioning smoothly. You don’t want to be caught off guard by a furnace breakdown on a cold morning or an air conditioner failure as temperatures rise. 2. Preventative Maintenance is Key Many HVAC issues go unnoticed during the off-season, but spring is the perfect time to give your system a thorough inspection. A professional tune-up ensures that your air conditioner is running efficiently and can handle the heat of summer. It also gives our technicians a chance to catch small issues before they become big problems. Whether it’s checking the refrigerant levels, cleaning the coils, or replacing filters, a little maintenance now can prevent major repairs later. 3. Avoid the Summer Rush Summer is always a busy time for HVAC companies. If you wait until the heat is in full swing, you might find yourself waiting for days for a technician to arrive. By scheduling your HVAC maintenance or repair in spring, you’ll beat the rush and ensure your system is in top condition when you need it most. Current HVAC Needs in Platte City, MO In Platte City, we’re no strangers to unpredictable weather patterns. Early spring may still require heating, but soon enough, temperatures will rise, and your air conditioner will be your best friend. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common HVAC services we see during this transitional season: Heating Services Heating Repair: Even as we move into spring, cold weather can still sneak up on us. If your furnace has been running less efficiently or has shown signs of wear, now is the time to address it. A heating repair service ensures your furnace is working as efficiently as possible before the season changes. Furnace Replacement: If your furnace is old or inefficient, spring is the ideal time for a replacement. Waiting until winter comes around again could leave you in the cold if your furnace breaks down unexpectedly. Cooling Services Air Conditioning Repair Service: After a long winter, the first time you turn on your air conditioner might reveal problems like weak airflow, strange sounds, or poor cooling. Scheduling an AC repair in spring ensures your system is ready to take on summer’s heat. Air Conditioner Installation & Repair: If your air conditioner struggled last summer or is getting up in age, spring is the best time to either repair or replace it. A new system will keep your home cooler and more energy-efficient when the temperatures soar. AC Repair: If you’ve noticed any issues with your AC already, don’t wait for the heat to increase. Early spring is the best time to fix your system before it’s working at full capacity. How Schomburg Heating & Cooling Can Help At Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc., we’ve been providing quality HVAC services to Platte City and the surrounding areas since 1991. Our team of expert technicians is here to ensure your home stays comfortable no matter the season. From heating repairs to AC installations, we offer a full range of services to meet your needs. HVAC Repairs: Whether it’s your furnace or air conditioner, we’re here to fix it fast and efficiently. Seasonal Maintenance: Prevent future issues with a thorough inspection of your heating and cooling systems. Air Conditioning Services: Stay cool this summer with expert installation and repair services for your AC system. Heating Services: Ensure your home stays warm when temperatures drop with our furnace repair and replacement services. What You Need to Know About HVAC Services This Season Spring is the perfect time to get your HVAC system in check. The temperature swings during this season can put stress on your system, making it a prime time for malfunctions. At Schomburg Heating & Cooling, we recommend getting your system tuned up before both the heating and cooling seasons hit their peaks. This ensures your equipment runs as efficiently as possible and helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns. Remember, regular HVAC maintenance not only helps avoid breakdowns but also keeps your system running efficiently, saving you money on energy bills. It also extends the life of your system, so you can get the most out of your investment. Frequently Asked Questions 1. When should I schedule HVAC maintenance in Platte City? Spring—ideally in March or April—is the best time to service your air conditioner before summer demand increases. It ensures your system runs efficiently and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns when you need your AC most. 2. How do I know if my AC needs repair or full replacement? If your air conditioner is over 10 years old, has frequent breakdowns, or no longer keeps your home cool efficiently, it may be time for a replacement. Frequent repairs or rising energy bills are also signs that it’s time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model. 3. Why does my AC blow warm air even though it’s turned on? This could be due to low refrigerant, a clogged filter, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a broken compressor. If you’re noticing this issue, it’s best to have a professional inspect and repair your system to prevent further damage. 4. Can I run my air conditioner right after winter without servicing it? While it’s possible, it’s not recommended. Dust and debris can accumulate in your system over the winter months, and the first time you run it may reveal issues that could have been caught earlier with a tune-up. 5. What are common signs my furnace needs service? If your furnace is producing strange noises, not heating properly, or causing higher energy bills, it’s time for a professional inspection. A spring tune-up can help catch any issues before the next cold snap. 6. How can I improve my indoor air quality at home? To improve indoor air quality, change your filters regularly, consider adding air purification systems, and have your HVAC system professionally cleaned during maintenance visits. These steps will help ensure you’re breathing cleaner air year-round. If you need help preparing your HVAC system for the season ahead, don’t hesitate to contact Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc. Our experts are ready to keep your home comfortable, no matter the weather. Schedule your appointment today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your HVAC system is in good hands.

By Greg Schomburg
•
March 31, 2026
If you live in St. Joseph, Missouri, you know how quickly the weather can change. One day it's sunny and warm, the next it's cold and rainy. With temperatures swinging between hot summers and freezing winters, it’s crucial that your HVAC system is prepared to handle it all. A little care and attention now can save you from costly repairs down the road and keep your home comfortable no matter the season. At Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc., we’ve been helping our neighbors in St. Joseph stay comfortable since 1991, and we know exactly what your HVAC system needs to survive our unpredictable weather. Here’s a simple guide to get your HVAC system ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at you. Why St. Joseph’s Weather Can Be Tough on Your HVAC System St. Joseph’s weather keeps you on your toes. We get hot and humid summers, cold, icy winters, and everything in between. This puts a lot of strain on your heating and cooling system, especially as it has to shift gears between heating and cooling frequently. If your system isn’t properly maintained, it can lead to breakdowns, higher energy bills, and a shorter lifespan for your HVAC system. But don’t worry—preparing your HVAC system for extreme weather is easier than you think. Here’s how to keep your system running smoothly through every season. 1. Get a Regular HVAC Tune-Up The best way to prepare your HVAC system for anything the seasons throw at it is through routine maintenance. Regular tune-ups ensure that both your heating and cooling systems are in top condition, ready to handle the extreme temperature shifts. Here’s what a professional maintenance service includes: Checking refrigerant levels in your air conditioner Cleaning and replacing filters Inspecting coils and cleaning them if needed Testing the thermostat for accuracy Lubricating the motor and moving parts Checking the burner and ignition system in your furnace By getting your system tuned up before summer and winter, you’ll avoid major breakdowns when you need your HVAC the most. 2. Replace Your Air Filter Regularly One of the easiest ways to keep your system running smoothly is by replacing the air filter every 1-3 months. Clogged filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder to heat or cool your home. This can cause unnecessary wear and tear and lead to higher energy bills. Why it matters: Clean filters improve airflow, making your system more efficient. They help keep your home’s air quality high, which is especially important as you keep your windows closed in both winter and summer. Changing filters regularly prevents dust and debris from accumulating in the system. 3. Insulate Your Home to Enhance HVAC Efficiency When temperatures drop or rise outside, your HVAC system works harder to maintain the right temperature indoors. But if your home isn’t well-insulated, it’ll be more difficult for your HVAC system to keep things comfortable. Simple ways to improve insulation: Check your attic for insulation gaps and add more if needed. Seal up cracks around windows and doors with weatherstripping. Consider insulating your ductwork if it’s in an unheated area like your attic or basement. These small fixes help keep the warm or cool air inside, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work overtime. 4. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat If you’re still using a manual thermostat, it might be time to upgrade to a smart thermostat. These thermostats automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule, helping you save energy and money. Plus, many smart thermostats can be controlled remotely from your phone, which means you can adjust the temperature if the weather suddenly changes. Why you’ll love it: Save money by only running your system when you need it. Adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere—whether you're on your way home from work or just lounging on the couch. Get alerts when it's time for a filter change or when your system needs maintenance. 5. Consider Upgrading Your HVAC System If your HVAC system is getting up there in age, it may not be as efficient as it once was. An old system can struggle to keep up with St. Joseph’s temperature extremes, leading to higher energy bills and more frequent breakdowns. Signs you might need a new system: Your HVAC system is over 10 years old You notice higher energy bills Frequent repairs are needed Your system struggles to heat or cool your home evenly Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient system can save you a lot of money in the long run. Plus, newer systems are often quieter and more environmentally friendly. 6. Clean and Maintain the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit Your outdoor HVAC unit works hard, especially in summer when it’s pushing out all that hot air. Make sure there’s nothing blocking airflow around your outdoor unit, like leaves, grass, or debris. You want to keep a clear zone of about 2 feet around the unit. Outdoor unit maintenance tips: Clear away leaves, branches, and other debris from the unit. Trim back any bushes or plants that might be growing too close. Give it a quick visual inspection for any signs of wear or damage. Keeping your unit clear ensures it can do its job efficiently, whether it’s cooling your home in summer or providing ventilation in winter. 7. Improve Indoor Air Quality When the weather changes and we keep the windows shut for longer periods, indoor air quality can take a hit. Your HVAC system can help improve the air in your home, but you may need to add a few extra steps, especially as weather patterns shift. Indoor air quality solutions: Install a whole-home air purifier to help remove allergens, dust, and pet dander. Use a dehumidifier in the summer to control moisture levels and avoid mold growth. Use a humidifier in the winter to add moisture to dry indoor air, helping to prevent respiratory issues. Prepare for the Changing Seasons with Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc. St. Joseph’s weather can be unpredictable, but with a little preparation, your HVAC system can handle whatever comes its way. Whether it’s scheduling a tune-up, replacing your filter, or upgrading your system, a few simple steps can keep your home comfortable year-round. If you’re ready to prepare your HVAC system for the extreme weather changes in St. Joseph, reach out to Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc. We’ve been serving the community since 1991, and we’re here to ensure your home stays comfortable, no matter the season.

