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Winter is in full swing here in Johnson County, Kansas! For homeowners, this means cranking up the heat to stay cozy. But how can you ensure your home stays warm without breaking the bank on energy bills? We’ve got you covered with expert tips to maximize your heating efficiency and comfort this season.

Common Heating Challenges in Johnson County Homes

In Johnson County, many homes face unique heating challenges during the winter months. From older furnaces struggling to keep up with demand to drafty windows that let cold air seep in, staying comfortable can be a battle. Add fluctuating Kansas temperatures to the mix, and it’s clear why proactive heating maintenance is so important.

5 Easy Heating Tips for Winter Comfort

Here are five simple steps you can take to keep your home warm and energy-efficient this winter:

1. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up

Routine furnace maintenance is essential for keeping your heating system running efficiently. A professional tune-up can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensure your furnace operates at peak performance all winter long. Plus, a well-maintained furnace can save you money on energy bills.

2. Seal Drafts and Insulate

Drafty windows and poorly insulated doors can significantly impact your home’s heating. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal any gaps, and consider adding insulation to your attic to keep warm air from escaping.

3. Use a Programmable Thermostat

Investing in a programmable thermostat is a game-changer. Set it to lower the temperature while you’re asleep or away from home and raise it just before you return. This small adjustment can lead to big energy savings.

4. Clean or Replace Furnace Filters

Dirty furnace filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder and less efficiently. Check your filters monthly and replace them as needed to keep your furnace in top condition.

5. Keep Vents and Registers Clear

Ensure all vents and registers are free of obstructions, such as furniture or rugs. Blocked vents can hinder airflow and cause uneven heating throughout your home.

Why Regular Maintenance is Key

Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs and ensure your heating system lasts for years to come. A professional inspection can identify potential issues before they become major problems, keeping your home warm and safe all season long.

Take Advantage of Our $49 Service Call Special

Don’t wait until you’re left in the cold! At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning of Johnson County, we’re offering $49 service calls for furnace diagnostics this month. Whether your system needs a quick fix or a full tune-up, our expert technicians are here to help.

Stay Warm, Stay Safe

Winter in Johnson County can be unpredictable, but your heating doesn’t have to be. Follow these tips to keep your home comfortable and your energy bills under control. And remember, we’re just a call away if you need professional assistance.

Call us today at 913-ONE-HOUR or click the link below to schedule your $49 service call and ensure your home stays warm all winter long!

At One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning of Johnson County, we believe that true success is measured not just by the services we provide but by the impact we have on our community. That’s why, in 2024, we’ve dedicated our Fridays to making a difference at Kansas City Hospice House, a place that offers compassion and comfort to patients and their families during challenging times.

What is Kansas City Hospice House?

Kansas City Hospice House is part of Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care, an organization committed to bringing expert care, peace of mind, comfort, guidance, and hope to people affected by life-limiting illnesses or grief. Their services include hospice care, palliative care, pediatric care, and grief support through the Solace House. The Hospice House itself is a sanctuary for patients who may need additional care and support in their final days. It provides a calming, home-like environment where families can focus on their loved ones while having access to professional medical care.

Patients typically stay at the Hospice House for 3-4 days, a crucial period that allows them to spend their remaining time surrounded by loved ones in a tranquil setting. It’s an alternative to the clinical atmosphere of a hospital, offering a more personal and compassionate experience. Beyond medical care, the Hospice House fosters a sense of dignity, community, and connection during a challenging time.

A Tradition of Giving Back

Every Friday, three of our team members volunteer their time at Kansas City Hospice House to support their incredible mission. Our volunteers engage in a variety of activities, all designed to bring joy and comfort to the residents and their families. From baking homemade treats to creating Chiefs-themed hearts for patients’ doors, our team is committed to brightening each Friday. Additionally, we’ve spent time painting birdhouses, changing out air filters, and helping with landscaping to beautify the outdoor spaces around the Hospice House.

Join Us in Supporting Kansas City Hospice House

We’re proud to support the Kansas City Hospice House, but their mission depends on the generosity of the entire community. If you’d like to learn more about their work or find ways to get involved, visit their website at kchospice.org. Together, we can make a lasting difference.

A Commitment to Community

As we look ahead to 2025, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning of Johnson County remains committed to serving both your home comfort needs and the greater good of our community. Whether it’s through expert HVAC services or heartfelt volunteering, our goal is always the same: to create a positive impact in the lives of those around us.

Volunteer Photo Gallery

We’re excited to showcase some of our team’s memorable moments from volunteering throughout the year. Scroll through our photo gallery to see how we’ve been making a difference at Kansas City Hospice House—one Friday at a time!

One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning, located in Olathe, Kansas, has been named a 2024 Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave business, the annual awards program that recognizes local businesses loved by neighbors.

“This year’s Neighborhood Fave businesses represent the outstanding service providers, local spots and eateries that are an essential part of our everyday lives,” said Nirav Tolia, Chief Executive Officer of Nextdoor. “We’re thrilled to celebrate these important members of the community, but more importantly, being a Neighborhood Fave is good for business. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners.”

Selected by volume of neighbor ‘Faves’ and recommendations on the platform from the past year, the Neighborhood Faves awards recognizes the most beloved local businesses on Nextdoor. Used by one in three households in the US, Nextdoor is the essential neighborhood network where neighbors, public agencies, and businesses connect around local information that matters.  In a May 2023 Nextdoor survey, 94% of Nextdoor neighbors report valuing recommendations for products, services, and businesses from their Nextdoor neighbors and Neighborhood Faves winners receive six times more recommendations on their respective Business Pages.

“We are grateful to our clients for nominating us for this significant award. Being named as a Nextdoor “Neighborhood Favorite” is an honor that we share with our entire team. We have a wonderful group of technicians and administrative staff that work incredibly hard to provide the best service possible to our neighbors here in Johnson County.” – Jonathan Blachly, owner of One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning

The complete list of winning businesses is available at nextdoor.com/favorites. Join the neighborhood network by downloading the Nextdoor app in your favorite  app store  or visiting nextdoor.com.

Is Your Air Conditioner Acting Up? It Might Be the Capacitor

Summer heat can be brutal, and an air conditioner not cooling properly is the last thing you need. One of the most common culprits behind a struggling AC unit is a failing capacitor. Here’s why this happens and how you can prevent it…

What is an AC Capacitor?

An air conditioner capacitor is a small but crucial component that stores electrical energy. This energy is then released to help start the compressor and fan motors. Without a functioning capacitor, your AC unit simply won’t turn on or will struggle to operate efficiently.

Why Does the Capacitor Fail?

Capacitors have a lifespan, typically between 5 and 10 years. Over time, the internal components degrade, leading to reduced performance and eventual failure. Other factors that can accelerate capacitor failure include:

• Power surges: Sudden spikes in electricity can damage the capacitor.
  
• Overheating: Extreme temperatures can shorten the capacitor’s life.
  
• Age of the unit: Older air conditioners are more likely to experience capacitor issues.

Signs of a Bad Capacitor

If you suspect your capacitor might be failing, look for these common symptoms:

• Compressor doesn’t start: The most obvious sign is when the compressor fails to kick in.
• Humming noise: A humming sound coming from the outdoor unit could indicate a capacitor problem.
• Reduced cooling efficiency: If your AC is running but not cooling as effectively as before, it might be a capacitor issue.

Preventing Capacitor Failure

While you can’t completely prevent capacitor failure, there are steps you can take to extend its lifespan:

• Regular maintenance: Schedule annual tune-ups for your AC unit. A professional can inspect the capacitor and identify potential issues early on.
  
• Surge protection: Install a surge protector to shield your AC unit from power spikes.
  
• Proper care: Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of debris to prevent overheating.

Important note: Working with electricity can be dangerous. It’s best to call a professional HVAC technician.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on residential furnace repairs in Olathe, Kansas. We hope to be your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of maintaining a reliable heating system in the heart of the Midwest.

As temperatures plummet during the winter months, ensuring your furnace operates at peak efficiency becomes essential for a cozy and comfortable home. In this blog post, we’ll delve into common furnace issues that Olathe residents often encounter. We explore DIY checks to troubleshoot problems, and offer insights into when it’s time to call in professional help.

Whether you’re a homeowner seeking preventative maintenance tips or grappling with a sudden heating breakdown, our guide aims to empower you with the knowledge to keep your furnace running smoothly in the face of Kansas’s chilly weather.

What are the most common furnace problems?

In Olathe, residents often encounter common furnace problems that can disrupt their home heating systems.

1. One prevalent issue is a malfunctioning thermostat, which can lead to inconsistent heating or no heat at all.

2. Faulty ignitors or pilot lights are also frequent culprits, causing the furnace to fail to ignite and produce warmth.

3. Another common problem is dirty or clogged filters, hindering proper airflow and reducing the efficiency of the heating system.

4. Additionally, issues with the blower motor, such as wear and tear or electrical failures, may result in inadequate circulation of heated air throughout the home.

Olathe’s cold winters emphasize the importance of addressing these common furnace problems promptly to ensure residents stay warm and comfortable in their homes. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent these issues and keep residential heating systems running smoothly during the chilly seasons.

Regularly replacing or cleaning the air filter is a simple but crucial maintenance task that can prevent such issues and help keep the furnace operating efficiently. It’s recommended to check and replace the air filter at least every few months, especially during peak heating seasons.

What can do yourself if your furnace is not working?

If your furnace is not working, there are several checks you can perform yourself before calling a professional. Keep in mind that if you’re not comfortable or familiar with these tasks, it’s always advisable to seek assistance from a qualified technician. Here are some furnace checks you can do:

1. Thermostat Settings: Ensure that the thermostat is set to the desired temperature and mode (heating). Replace the thermostat batteries if needed.
2. Power Supply: Check if the furnace is receiving power. Make sure the circuit breaker for the furnace is not tripped, and verify that the furnace switch is turned on.
3. Air Filter: Inspect the air filter and replace it if it’s dirty or clogged. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and lead to various issues.
4. Fuel Supply: For gas furnaces, confirm that the gas supply is turned on. If you suspect a gas leak, leave your home immediately and contact the gas company.
5. Vents and Registers: Make sure all vents and registers are open and unobstructed. Blocked vents can impede airflow.
6. Condensate Drain: If your furnace has a condensate drain, ensure it is not clogged. A blocked drain can cause the furnace to shut down.
7. Inspect Flue and Exhaust Pipe: Check for any blockages or obstructions in the flue or exhaust pipe. Blocked vents can be a safety hazard.

If, after performing these checks, your furnace still doesn’t work, it’s recommended to contact a licensed HVAC professional to diagnose and address the issue. Safety is paramount when dealing with heating systems, so exercise caution and seek professional help if needed.

What is the typical lifespan of a furnace?

The typical lifespan of a furnace varies depending on factors such as the type of furnace, the quality of its installation, and how well it’s maintained. On average, a gas furnace can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. However, if a furnace is never maintained we have seen them needing major repairs or even replacement after just 10 years.

Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and the quality of installation play crucial roles in extending a furnace’s lifespan. If a furnace is well-maintained and experiences minimal wear and tear, it is more likely to operate efficiently for a longer duration.

Additionally, factors like energy efficiency and technological advancements may prompt homeowners to upgrade their furnaces before the end of their expected lifespan.