Why Your AC Might Be Running Constantly—and What You Can Do About It

Summers in Shelby, NC are known for their intense heat and humidity, and keeping your home comfortable can feel like a constant battle. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we’ve been helping local homeowners stay cool for decades—and we know exactly what it takes to beat the heat. Whether you're trying to lower your energy bills or simply stay comfortable indoors, here are our top tips for keeping your home cool during Shelby’s hottest months. 1. Invest in a High-Efficiency Air Conditioning System If your air conditioner is more than 10–15 years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Older systems tend to be less efficient and struggle to keep up during peak summer temperatures. Installing a high-efficiency AC unit can drastically improve your comfort while lowering energy costs. Pro Tip: Our team at Bill Shuford Heating & Air can help you choose and install the perfect system for your home’s size, layout, and cooling needs. 2. Schedule Preventative Maintenance A well-maintained AC system runs more efficiently and is less likely to break down when you need it most. Routine maintenance, such as cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical components, can make a big difference in how your system performs. Bonus: Regular tune-ups also extend the life of your system and help catch small issues before they become expensive problems. 3. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat Smart thermostats allow you to create cooling schedules based on your daily routine, helping you reduce energy usage without sacrificing comfort. You can set higher temperatures while you're away and cool things down before you get home. Smart Savings: A properly programmed thermostat can help you cut cooling costs by up to 10% annually. 4. Seal and Insulate Your Home Cool air escapes easily through poorly sealed windows, doors, and ductwork. Ensuring your home is properly sealed and insulated keeps the cool air inside where it belongs—and the hot, humid Shelby air out. Quick Fix: Weatherstripping, caulking, and attic insulation are simple, affordable ways to improve energy efficiency. 5. Close Curtains and Blinds During Peak Sun Hours Sunlight streaming through your windows can significantly raise indoor temperatures. Blocking that heat with curtains, blinds, or reflective window film can help your AC work less and keep your home cooler. 6. Use Ceiling Fans to Improve Airflow Ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature, but they do help circulate cool air more effectively. Make sure your fans are spinning counterclockwise in the summer to create a wind-chill effect that makes rooms feel cooler. Stay Cool with Help from Shelby’s HVAC Experts At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we’re proud to be Shelby’s trusted name in cooling comfort. Whether you need a new AC system, seasonal maintenance, or help with indoor air quality, our experienced team is here to help you stay cool all summer long. Contact us today to schedule a service or request a free estimate on an energy-efficient AC installation. Let’s keep your home comfortable, no matter how hot it gets outside!

As the summer heat rolls into Shelby and the surrounding Cleveland County area, many homeowners brace themselves for rising energy bills. But did you know that a simple spring HVAC tune-up can make a big difference when it comes to keeping your home cool and your energy costs down? At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we’ve seen firsthand how preventive maintenance pays off. Here's how scheduling a spring HVAC tune-up can help you lower your cooling bills this summer—and keep your system running strong all season long. 1. Improve Energy Efficiency When your air conditioner is running at peak performance, it uses less energy to cool your home. A spring tune-up includes essential maintenance like: Cleaning condenser coils Checking refrigerant levels Lubricating moving parts Inspecting electrical components These adjustments help your AC run more efficiently, which translates to lower utility bills throughout the summer. 2. Catch Small Issues Before They Become Big Problems During a tune-up, our certified technicians thoroughly inspect your system for any signs of wear and tear. Addressing minor problems early—like a worn belt or clogged drain line—can prevent unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs later on. Pro tip: A system that runs smoothly also uses less energy to do its job, keeping your monthly cooling costs in check. 3. Extend the Life of Your System Your HVAC system is one of the most important (and costly) investments in your home. Regular maintenance helps reduce the strain on your AC unit, extending its life and delaying the need for a costly replacement. Think of a spring tune-up like a regular oil change for your car—it’s a small investment that keeps everything running better, longer. 4. Get Better, More Consistent Cooling A poorly maintained air conditioner can lead to uneven temperatures, poor airflow, and a system that struggles to keep up with demand—especially during Shelby’s hot and humid summers. A well-maintained system cools your home faster and maintains a more comfortable temperature without running longer than necessary. 5. Take Advantage of Seasonal Specials Spring is the best time to schedule your HVAC maintenance—not only to beat the summer rush but also to take advantage of seasonal service specials from Bill Shuford Heating & Air. It’s a great opportunity to save money on service and energy bills. Schedule Your Spring Tune-Up Today! Don’t wait for the first heatwave to discover that your AC isn’t ready. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we’re proud to help homeowners in Shelby, NC and the surrounding areas stay cool and save money with our expert HVAC services. Call us today at 704-484-0025 or schedule your spring tune-up online to get your AC system in top shape before the summer heat hits! Check out our cooling service page to learn more about how we can keep your Shelby, NC home cool and comfortable all summer long.

Summer in Shelby, NC, is no joke — and the last thing you want is for your air conditioner to break down during the hottest days of the year. Before the heat really sets in, it’s a good idea to make sure your AC system is ready to handle the workload. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we’re here to help you stay cool and comfortable. Here are some of the top signs your AC needs attention before summer kicks into full gear.  1. Your AC Is Blowing Warm Air If your air conditioner is running but blowing warm or room-temperature air, something isn’t right. This could be due to a refrigerant leak, a compressor issue, or a clogged air filter — and all of those need to be checked by a professional. 2. Unusual Noises or Smells Banging, rattling, or grinding sounds are not normal. Neither are musty or burning smells coming from your vents. These could be signs of worn-out parts, electrical issues, or even mold growth inside your system. Don’t ignore these warning signs — they often get worse (and more expensive) the longer you wait. 3. Poor Airflow If some rooms feel cool while others stay hot, or if the air coming from your vents feels weak, your AC system may be struggling. Dirty filters, ductwork issues, or even a failing blower motor could be to blame. 4. Rising Energy Bills Have your energy bills started creeping up even though your usage hasn’t changed? An inefficient AC system might be working harder than it should to cool your home — wasting energy and money in the process. 5. Frequent Cycling On and Off If your system is constantly turning on and off, or only running in short bursts, it may be having trouble maintaining your desired temperature. This could signal a thermostat issue, dirty coils, or other underlying problems. 6. Your AC Is More Than 10 Years Old Even if your older system seems to be working, it may not be running efficiently. Preventative maintenance or a system upgrade can improve comfort and lower your long-term energy costs — especially with modern, energy-efficient models. Schedule a Pre-Summer AC Check-Up The best way to avoid a mid-summer breakdown is to catch issues early. Our team at Bill Shuford Heating & Air offers reliable AC tune-ups, repairs, and full system replacements right here in Shelby, NC. We’ll make sure your home stays cool when it matters most. 📞 Call us today at (704) 484-0025 or schedule your service online to get ahead of the heat!

As the weather in Shelby, NC, begins to warm up, it's time to transition from heating to cooling in your home. Spring is the perfect season to ensure your HVAC system is in top shape before the summer heat sets in. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we want to help you get your system ready so you can enjoy a comfortable and energy-efficient home all season long. Here are some essential spring HVAC maintenance tips to keep in mind. 1. Replace Your Air Filters One of the easiest and most important maintenance tasks is replacing your air filters. Over time, filters accumulate dust and debris, which can reduce airflow and force your system to work harder. A clean filter improves air quality and helps your HVAC system run more efficiently. 2. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up Spring is the ideal time to schedule a professional HVAC tune-up. Our experienced technicians at Bill Shuford Heating & Air will inspect, clean, and optimize your system to ensure it's running at peak performance. Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your unit. Check out our services page to learn more about our professional maintenance service to keep your HVAC system running efficiently. 3. Clean Around Your Outdoor Unit Your outdoor AC unit can collect dirt, leaves, and debris during the fall and winter months. Clear away any obstructions to ensure proper airflow and efficiency. Keeping the area around your unit free from debris helps prevent potential damage and allows your system to operate smoothly. 4. Check Your Thermostat Settings With the changing season, it's a good idea to adjust your thermostat settings for spring. Consider setting your thermostat to energy-efficient temperatures, and if you don’t already have a programmable or smart thermostat, now might be a great time to upgrade for better control and savings. 5. Inspect Your Ductwork Leaky or dirty ducts can reduce efficiency and impact indoor air quality. Inspect your ductwork for visible signs of leaks or buildup. If you notice excessive dust or inconsistent temperatures, professional duct cleaning or sealing may be necessary to improve airflow and efficiency. 6. Test Your Air Conditioning System Before the temperatures rise, test your air conditioning system to ensure it's cooling properly. Turn it on and let it run for a bit to check for any unusual noises or performance issues. If something seems off, it’s best to address it now before summer arrives. Get Ready for Spring with Bill Shuford Heating & Air! Don’t wait until the first hot day of the year to realize your AC isn’t working as it should. Schedule your spring HVAC maintenance with Bill Shuford Heating & Air today and enjoy a worry-free season ahead. Contact us to book your tune-up and keep your home comfortable all year round!

As temperatures drop in Shelby, NC, your home’s heating system becomes essential for comfort. If your furnace is aging or struggling to keep up, now is the perfect time to consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model. A high-efficiency furnace offers numerous benefits, from cost savings to improved indoor air quality. Let’s explore why making the switch this season is a smart investment. 1. Lower Energy Bills One of the most significant advantages of a high-efficiency furnace is the potential for lower utility costs. These modern systems use advanced technology to maximize heat output while consuming less energy. With AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings of 90% or higher, high-efficiency furnaces ensure that more of the fuel you pay for is converted into heat, reducing waste and lowering your monthly heating bills. 2. Enhanced Comfort & Consistent Heating Older furnaces often struggle to maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home. High-efficiency models use advanced heating technology, such as variable-speed blowers and two-stage heating, to provide steady, even warmth. This means fewer cold spots and a more comfortable indoor environment all winter long. 3. Reduced Environmental Impact A high-efficiency furnace helps reduce your carbon footprint. By using less fuel to produce the same amount of heat, these systems decrease greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. If you're looking for ways to make your home more eco-friendly, upgrading your heating system is a great step in the right direction. 4. Quieter Operation If your current furnace is noisy, you’ll appreciate the difference a high-efficiency model can make. Newer furnaces are designed with sound-dampening technology and advanced motors that operate more quietly. This means fewer disruptive noises and a more peaceful home environment. 5. Improved Indoor Air Quality High-efficiency furnaces often come with advanced filtration systems that help remove dust, allergens, and other airborne particles. This leads to cleaner, healthier air in your home, which is especially beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues. 6. Potential Rebates & Incentives Upgrading to an energy-efficient heating system may qualify you for rebates or tax incentives. Many utility companies and government programs offer financial incentives for homeowners who invest in energy-efficient HVAC systems. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we can help you navigate available incentives to maximize your savings. 7. Increased Home Value A high-efficiency furnace is a valuable upgrade that can boost your home’s resale value. Potential buyers are often willing to pay more for a home with modern, energy-efficient systems in place, making this upgrade a wise investment for the future. Upgrade with Bill Shuford Heating & Air At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we specialize in high-efficiency furnace installations for homeowners in Shelby, NC, and surrounding areas. Our experienced technicians can help you choose the best system for your needs, ensuring maximum comfort and efficiency. Don’t wait until your old furnace fails—upgrade today and start enjoying the benefits of a high-efficiency heating system. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

When the temperatures drop in Shelby, NC, your heating system becomes an essential part of keeping your home comfortable. However, like any home appliance, heating systems can encounter problems that disrupt your comfort and increase your energy bills. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we’ve compiled a list of common heating issues and solutions to help you stay warm this season. 1. Uneven Heating in Your Home The Problem: Some rooms feel warm and cozy, while others remain chilly. This is a common issue in homes with aging HVAC systems or poorly designed ductwork. The Solution: Check your vents: Make sure all vents are open and unobstructed by furniture or curtains. Inspect your ductwork: Leaks or blockages in your ducts can lead to uneven airflow. Professional duct sealing or cleaning can resolve this. Consider zoning: Upgrading your system with zoned heating allows you to control the temperature of different areas of your home independently. 2. High Energy Bills The Problem: A sudden spike in your heating bills could indicate that your system is struggling to perform efficiently. The Solution: Replace your air filter: A clogged filter makes your system work harder to heat your home. Schedule a tune-up: Regular maintenance ensures your system runs at peak efficiency. Upgrade to a high-efficiency system: If your unit is over 10-15 years old, consider upgrading to an energy-efficient model. 3. No Heat or Insufficient Heat The Problem: Your heating system runs, but it doesn’t produce enough heat—or any heat at all. The Solution: Check your thermostat: Make sure it’s set to “heat” and the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. Inspect your power source: Ensure the unit is properly connected and the breaker hasn’t tripped. Call a professional: Issues like a failing blower motor or faulty ignitor are best handled by a licensed technician. 4. Strange Noises from Your Heating System The Problem: Banging, rattling, or squealing sounds are a sign that something isn’t right with your system. The Solution: Rattling: This could indicate loose components. Tighten screws or panels if safe to do so. Squealing: A worn-out blower belt or motor bearings may need replacement. Banging: This could be caused by dirty burners or air ducts expanding and contracting. Professional cleaning or repairs can resolve these issues. 5. Short Cycling  The Problem: Your heating system turns on and off frequently without fully heating your home. The Solution: Replace your filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing your system to overheat and shut off. Check your thermostat placement: If your thermostat is near a heat source, it may think your home is warmer than it is. Call for service: Short cycling can also indicate more serious issues, such as a malfunctioning heat exchanger. Prevent Heating Problems with Regular Maintenance The best way to avoid heating issues is with regular maintenance. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we offer comprehensive maintenance services to keep your system running smoothly all season long. Our technicians will inspect, clean, and tune up your heating system to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency. Need Help? Call the Experts! If you’re experiencing heating problems in Shelby, NC, don’t wait for the issue to worsen. The team at Bill Shuford Heating & Air is here to help with expert repairs, maintenance, and installations. Contact us today at 704-484-0025 or visit our contact page to schedule your service. Stay warm and comfortable this winter with reliable service from Bill Shuford Heating & Air!

As the cold weather settles in Shelby, NC, it’s important to keep your home warm while maintaining energy efficiency. Not only will this save you money on heating bills, but it will also contribute to a more comfortable living space. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we understand the challenges of keeping your home cozy during winter. Here are some practical tips to help you stay warm and save energy this season. 1. Regular HVAC Maintenance Your heating system works hard during the colder months, so it's essential to ensure it’s operating at its best. Scheduling regular maintenance for your furnace or heat pump is key to preventing breakdowns and improving energy efficiency. A professional tune-up will help your system run smoothly, keeping your home warm while using less energy. 2. Seal Drafts and Insulate Properly Cold air can sneak into your home through gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and ducts. Take the time to seal these areas with weatherstripping or caulking. Additionally, make sure your attic and walls are well insulated. Proper insulation keeps the warm air inside and reduces the need for your heating system to work overtime. 3. Use a Programmable Thermostat A programmable thermostat is a simple way to save energy without sacrificing comfort. Set your thermostat to lower the temperature when you're away or asleep, and warm up your home just before you return or wake up. This way, you're not heating your home unnecessarily, but you’ll still come back to a warm and comfortable environment. 4. Utilize Ceiling Fans Wisely Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. In winter, set your fan to run clockwise at a low speed. This helps circulate warm air that rises to the ceiling, pushing it back down into the living space. It’s a simple trick that can make your home feel warmer and allow you to lower your thermostat by a few degrees. 5. Close Curtains and Blinds at Night When the sun goes down, your windows can become a source of heat loss. Close curtains or blinds in the evening to help retain warmth. During the day, open them to let in the natural heat from the sun. This small adjustment can make a noticeable difference in your home’s temperature. 6. Cook and Bake to Your Advantage Using your oven not only provides a delicious meal but also helps heat your home. The warmth from the oven can help make your kitchen and nearby rooms feel more comfortable. Just be mindful of safety when using appliances for heating purposes. 7. Check for Leaks in Your Ductwork Leaky ducts can cause warm air to escape, making your HVAC system work harder. Have a professional, like Bill Shuford Heating & Air, inspect your ducts and seal any leaks to ensure that the warm air stays where it’s needed—inside your home. 8. Consider Upgrading Your Heating System If your heating system is old and inefficient, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Modern HVAC systems, such as high-efficiency furnaces or heat pumps, use less energy to heat your home while delivering superior comfort. A new system can be a significant investment, but the long-term savings on your energy bills will make it worthwhile. 9. Use Space Heaters Wisely Space heaters can be a helpful addition to supplement your heating system, especially in rooms that aren’t used as frequently. However, use them cautiously and avoid leaving them on unattended. A space heater can target specific areas without the need to heat your entire home. 10. Perform an Energy Audit An energy audit can help you identify areas where your home may be losing heat. A professional audit will check for insulation issues, air leaks, and inefficiencies in your HVAC system. This insight allows you to make targeted improvements to your home’s energy efficiency. Contact Bill Shuford Heating & Air Staying warm and energy-efficient during the colder months doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these tips, you’ll improve your home’s comfort while saving on energy costs. For more information or to schedule a maintenance check, contact Bill Shuford Heating & Air today. We’re proud to serve the Shelby, NC area and help you stay comfortable all winter long. Call us at 704-484-0025 or visit our services page to learn more!

As the temperatures start to drop in Cleveland County, ensuring your furnace is in top shape is crucial for keeping your home warm and comfortable throughout the winter. Ignoring small issues can lead to bigger problems when you need your heating system the most. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we want to help you spot the signs that your furnace may need repair before the cold sets in. 1. Uneven Heating or Cold Spots If some rooms in your home feel much colder than others, your furnace might not be distributing heat evenly. This could be caused by a failing blower motor, dirty air filters, or ductwork issues. 2. Unusual Noises Banging, rattling, or squealing sounds coming from your furnace are often signs of mechanical problems. These noises could indicate a loose component, a failing blower belt, or other internal issues that require professional attention. 3. Frequent Cycling Does your furnace turn on and off more frequently than usual? Short cycling could be due to a faulty thermostat, airflow restrictions, or an overheating unit. Addressing this issue promptly can prevent further damage. 4. Rising Energy Bills If your energy bills are higher than usual without a change in usage, your furnace may be working inefficiently. Causes could range from clogged filters to worn-out components that make the system work harder to produce heat. 5. Yellow Pilot Light The pilot light on your furnace should burn blue. A yellow or flickering flame may indicate a carbon monoxide issue, which is dangerous for your household. If you notice this, shut off your furnace and contact a professional immediately. 6. Unusual Smells While it's normal for a furnace to emit a slight burning smell when first turned on for the season, persistent odors could signal issues like mold in the ductwork or a gas leak. Don't ignore unusual smells—especially those resembling rotten eggs. 7. Difficulty Starting the Furnace If you’re finding it hard to start your furnace or keep it running, there could be a problem with the thermostat, ignition system, or wiring. This is especially concerning as it may worsen over time. Schedule Your Furnace Repair Today At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we recommend addressing furnace problems early to avoid costly breakdowns during the peak of winter. Our experienced technicians provide reliable furnace repair services throughout Cleveland County to keep your home warm and safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Contact Bill Shuford Heating & Air today to schedule your furnace repair or maintenance appointment. Call us at 704-484-0025 or visit our website our service page to learn more about our heating services. Stay cozy this winter with a furnace you can depend on!

As the seasons change in Shelby, NC, keeping your HVAC system in top shape is essential to ensure your home stays comfortable year-round. Whether it’s during the scorching summer heat or the chillier winter months, your HVAC system works hard to maintain a pleasant indoor environment. However, like any mechanical system, HVAC units can experience common issues, especially if they aren’t properly maintained. Below, we explore some of the most frequent HVAC problems in Shelby homes and how to prevent them. 1. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters One of the simplest yet most overlooked HVAC issues is a dirty air filter. When air filters become clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, they restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder and reduce overall efficiency. This can lead to higher energy bills and even shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system. Prevention Tip: Check and replace your air filters every 1-3 months, especially during peak heating and cooling seasons. Regular filter changes ensure better airflow and improve indoor air quality. 2. Refrigerant Leaks Refrigerant is crucial for cooling your home during Shelby’s hot summers. If your system is low on refrigerant, it won’t cool your home effectively, and the system may overheat or freeze up. Refrigerant leaks can also cause damage to the compressor, which is one of the most expensive components to replace. Prevention Tip: Regularly schedule HVAC maintenance with Bill Shuford Heating & Air. Our technicians can check for refrigerant leaks during routine inspections and repair them before they cause significant damage. 3. Thermostat Issues Thermostat malfunctions can cause your system to run inefficiently, leading to uneven temperatures throughout your home or even system failure. If your thermostat isn’t calibrated correctly or it’s placed in a poor location (like near direct sunlight), it can send incorrect signals to your HVAC system. Prevention Tip: Upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat to better control your home’s temperature. Also, ensure your thermostat is installed in a central location, away from drafts or heat sources, for accurate temperature readings. 4. Blocked or Leaky Ductwork Your HVAC system relies on ductwork to distribute heated or cooled air throughout your home. Blockages, gaps, or leaks in your ducts can cause inconsistent temperatures and force your system to work harder, resulting in higher energy costs and uncomfortable living conditions. Prevention Tip: Have your ductwork inspected and cleaned regularly to ensure there are no blockages or leaks. Sealing any gaps in the ductwork will help maintain efficiency and keep your home comfortable year-round. 5. Frozen Evaporator Coils The evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat from the air inside your home. If it freezes, your system won’t be able to cool your home properly, leading to increased energy consumption and potential system damage. Prevention Tip: Frozen coils often result from poor airflow, typically caused by dirty air filters or low refrigerant levels. Keep your air filters clean and have your system inspected regularly to prevent coil freezing. 6. Faulty Electrical Components Like any system that relies on electricity, your HVAC unit can experience issues with its electrical components. Problems like worn-out wires, damaged capacitors, or tripped circuit breakers can prevent your system from running properly or cause it to shut down entirely. Prevention Tip: Have a professional technician inspect your system’s electrical components during routine maintenance visits. Addressing small issues early on can help prevent costly repairs down the line. 7. Improper Maintenance Many HVAC issues stem from a lack of regular maintenance. Skipping routine maintenance can lead to reduced efficiency, higher energy bills, and costly repairs that could have been avoided. Prevention Tip: The best way to prevent HVAC issues is to schedule bi-annual maintenance with Bill Shuford Heating & Air. During these visits, our experienced technicians will thoroughly inspect and tune up your system to ensure it’s running smoothly and efficiently, no matter the season. Shelby’s weather can be unpredictable, but with a well-maintained HVAC system, you can ensure your home stays comfortable year-round. At Bill Shuford Heating & Air, we offer expert HVAC maintenance, repair, and installation services tailored to meet the specific needs of your home. By addressing common issues early and staying on top of regular maintenance, you can avoid expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your system. If you’re experiencing any of these common HVAC problems or simply want to schedule a maintenance check, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Call Bill Shuford Heating & Air at 704-484-0025 to keep your HVAC system in peak condition. Check out our maintenance service page to learn more about how we can help you prevent some of these common HVAC issues here in Shelby, NC.