Homeownership Basics

Yes, the holidays can put extra strain on your HVAC system. Increased occupancy, holiday cooking, and extra decorations can all contribute to a higher heat load, making your system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. This can be particularly noticeable if your system is older or hasn't been properly maintained. 

No, a bigger HVAC system is not necessarily better. In fact, an oversized HVAC system can lead to problems like short cycling, uneven cooling, higher energy bills, and reduced dehumidification. It's crucial to have an HVAC system that is appropriately sized for your home's specific needs based on factors like square footage, insulation, and local climate. 

HVAC financing allows homeowners to spread out the cost of a new or replacement heating and cooling system over time with monthly payments, rather than paying a large upfront sum. This can make a new HVAC system more affordable and manageable within a budget, especially when unexpected system failures occur. Victory Mechanical Group offers financing through Green Sky including zero percent options for qualified buyers.

Leaves clogging drains is a common problem, especially during the autumn season, and can lead to flooding and other major issues with your home's plumbing. To prevent and address this, it's important to regularly clear gutters and downspouts, use drain guards, and avoid blowing leaves into storm drains. If a clog occurs, try manual removal, flushing with a hose, or using a plumbing snake. In severe cases, professional help may be needed. 

If you rely on a heating or cooling system that uses R22 refrigerant, an ozone-depleting substance (ODS), you may be in for a surprise during your next service visit. As of January 1, 2020, production and import of R22 refrigerant will be illegal in the United States. Of course, continued use of your air conditioner (AC) or heat pump system using R22 refrigerant is allowed. However, it does mean that if your AC or heat pump system needs a repair that involves refrigerant, you

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or looking to move, purchasing a new home is an exciting time. Although you may fall in love with the layout and aesthetic of a home, a dream may quickly turn into a nightmare if you don’t know the history of the inner workings of the home before you sign the dotted line.

Trees are beautiful and provide a variety of benefits for a home. However, the complex root systems for trees travel far in search of moisture. Tree roots can break your water and sewer pipes as they grow. Learning the signs of tree root damage to your pipes can help you identify the problem as early as possible and avoid serious plumbing problems. Click the link below to learn more on how to protect your home now and long into the future.

When your AC is out before a technician arrives, focus on staying cool and preparing for the repair. Try to stay on the lowest level of your home, as heat rises. Use fans, close blinds and curtains to block sunlight, and avoid using heat-generating appliances. Consider taking a cold shower or using a damp towel for cooling. Before the technician arrives, ensure clear access to the AC unit and note any details about the issue (noise, leaks, etc.). 

Hiring a licensed and insured HVAC or plumbing company offers crucial legal, financial, and quality-of-service protections. It ensures the company is qualified, adheres to regulations, and carries insurance to cover potential damages or injuries during the job, saving you from potential liabilities and costly repairs. 

HVAC systems work hardest during peak seasons, like the heat of summer or the chill of winter. Scheduling maintenance before these high-demand periods is the key to continuous performance. You can maximize your energy savings by scheduling maintenance before the heating or cooling season begins instead of getting a tune-up halfway through the summer or winter. Scheduling maintenance in spring or fall can help ensure you enter summer or winter with a unit that's primed to oper

A well-maintained HVAC system can be expected to last between 15 and 25 years. However, the lifespan can vary significantly based on factors like usage, climate, maintenance, and the type of system. 

Whether your house needs a sump pump depends on several factors, including your location, the type of soil around your foundation, and whether your basement or crawl space has experienced flooding or moisture issues. If you live in an area with frequent rainfall or snowmelt, or if your property is prone to flooding, a sump pump can be a valuable addition to protect your home from water damage. 

In a house, an air filter, usually part of the HVAC system, primarily works to clean the air by trapping dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles. This helps improve indoor air quality and protects the HVAC system components from damage. 

Generally, most HVAC companies will not install equipment that you purchase yourself, especially online, because of warranty and liability issues. They prefer to supply and install the equipment themselves to ensure it's properly warranted and installed according to their standards and purchased from reputable sources at the best price! Click the button below to learn more about why purchasing your own parts may cost you more in the long run.

No, chemical drain cleaners are generally not safe and can pose risks to your health and your home's plumbing. While they may seem like a quick fix for clogged drains, they can cause serious damage to pipes, irritate skin and eyes, and release harmful fumes. 

HVAC warranties typically cover the cost of replacement parts due to manufacturer defects, but often exclude labor costs. There are typically two main types of HVAC warranties: manufacturer warranties and labor warranties. Manufacturer warranties cover parts, while labor warranties, often offered by HVAC companies, cover the cost of labor for repairs. 

Although the differences may be subtle among top-tier brands, there is a difference between them. While all HVAC systems essentially perform the same function (heating and cooling), some brands excel in specific areas like durability, efficiency, or noise levels. Installation quality and maintenance, however, often have a greater impact on system performance and longevity than the brand itself. 

An air conditioner freezing up is usually caused by poor airflow or low refrigerant levels. Restricted airflow, often due to a dirty air filter or blocked vents, can cause the evaporator coil to get too cold and freeze. Low refrigerant, potentially due to a leak, can also lead to freezing. 

Hard water is water that contains a high concentration of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. Kansas City has one of the hardest water in the nation, according to a 2025 survey. These minerals enter the water as it passes through rock formations like limestone and chalk. While not a health hazard, hard water can cause various inconveniences and aesthetic issues. 

To lower energy costs during summer cooling, it's important to prioritize optimizing your HVAC system, manage your thermostat effectively, and reduce heat gain through insulation and shading. This includes regular maintenance, sealing air leaks, using fans, and adjusting window coverings.