John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

The Importance of Your Home’s Air Quality

We spend a significant portion of our lives indoors, and the quality of the air we breathe in our homes has a major impact on our health and well-being. 

Here at John A. Kinkaid Heating & Cooling, we understand the importance of maintaining good indoor air quality. Our experienced technicians can ensure your HVAC system is functioning optimally to keep your home’s air clean and healthy. 

Air Quality and Your Health

Did you know that indoor air pollution can be two to five times more concentrated than outdoor air pollution? Our homes can harbor a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from cleaning products, furniture, and paint. 

Exposure to these pollutants can trigger allergies and asthma, worsen respiratory problems, and even lead to headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

Taking Control of Your Home’s Air Quality

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to improve your home’s air quality. John A. Kinkaid Heating & Cooling can help you achieve this in several ways:

  • Regular System Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance ensures your HVAC system is operating efficiently and effectively capturing airborne contaminants. Our technicians will clean and inspect your system, ensuring proper airflow and filter performance.
  • Air Filter Options: Air filters play a crucial role in trapping dust, allergens, and other pollutants. There are a variety of air filter options available, each with different filtration capabilities:
    • MERV Rating: MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) is a rating system that indicates an air filter’s ability to capture particles of different sizes. Higher MERV ratings signify greater filtration efficiency. For most homes, a MERV 13 or 14 filter is a good choice, offering a balance between capturing small particles and maintaining good airflow.
    • HEPA Filters: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are the most effective option for capturing airborne particles, including microscopic allergens like dust mites and pollen. HEPA filters are ideal for homes with occupants suffering from allergies or asthma. However, they can restrict airflow slightly, so it’s important to ensure your HVAC system can handle the increased resistance.

We recommend discussing your specific needs and concerns with a John A. Kinkaid technician to determine the most suitable air filter option for your home.

Our Tips for Healthy Indoor Air

Here are some of our tips to promote good air quality in your home:

  • Increase Ventilation: Open windows regularly to allow fresh air to circulate, especially during pleasant weather.
  • Reduce Indoor Pollutants: Minimize the use of harsh cleaning products and air fresheners. Vacuum carpets and rugs regularly, and consider using doormats to trap dirt and debris before it enters your home.
  • Control Humidity: High humidity levels can encourage mold growth. Aim for a relative humidity level between 30% and 50% by using a dehumidifier if necessary.

By working with John A. Kinkaid Heating & Cooling and implementing these simple strategies, you can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for yourself and your family. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance appointment or discuss your air quality concerns.

How to Determine What Filter Size Your HVAC Unit Needs

One important task of being a homeowner is regularly changing your HVAC filter to ensure safe air quality in your home and to protect the unit’s lifespan. Depending on the model and type of unit you have, each HVAC unit will use a different size filter. 

Finding the appropriate filter and changing it per manufacturer guidelines is important to stick with. But how do you get started on replacing your filter? How do you determine which filter size you need? The experts at John A. Kinkaid will break down all of the answers to the most frequently asked filter questions in this guide below.

Start with what you know

If you’ve recently purchased an existing home, chances are the previous owners already have a filter in the unit. Removing this filter can help you to see its size and know which type of replacement to buy. If there is not a filter in the unit, look on the side of the unit. Most models will have the appropriate size listed, including width, length, and depth. If you know the model and manufacturer of the unit or have the owner’s model, this information should also be printed there.

Many of our customers wonder how frequently they will need to replace their HVAC filter. The answer to this question depends on your usage and specific needs. In general, it is a good rule of thumb to aim to replace your filter every 60 to 90 days.

Finding the filter on the unit

The filter in your HVAC unit typically goes in the return air intake. You should see a plate that covers the area that the filter should go into. For large homes, there may be more than one HVAC unit – so be sure to change the filter on both. If you cannot find the filter on your unit or have trouble replacing it, call John A. Kinkaid Heating and Cooling.

As experts in the field, our technicians will be happy to guide on replacing your HVAC filter. It is our goal to provide exceptional customer service for everyone we serve – helping you throughout each step of the way. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment!

When to Replace Your HVAC Filters

hvac filter

Did you know that replacing your HVAC filter is one of the most important components of its operation? Often forgotten, homeowners must regularly replace their HVAC system’s filter. The filter filters out debris, mold, pollen, bacteria, and other debris from the air. 

As such, not replacing your HVAC filter enough could mean the air quality in your home is not healthy. Below, learn more about the importance of replacing your HVAC filters and how often you should do so.

Replacing Your HVAC Filter

Generally, every one to three months is a good time to replace your filter. The frequency may vary depending on how many people are living in the home and if pets are living in the home. If individuals suffering from allergies are living in the home, you may wish to replace your HVAC filter more often to maintain the highest air quality possible.

Suffering from allergy symptoms even inside your home? If so, it might be time to take a look at your filter. Dirty filters mean that allergens are floating around the air in your home which can make allergies and respiratory conditions much worse.

Not sure if it’s time to replace your filter? A check with John A. Kinkaid is also an option to make sure your HVAC unit runs properly. Our expert technicians are experienced in helping customers like you ensure their HVAC unit is functioning optimally and extending its lifespan.

Optimize Unit Efficiency

Regularly replacing your HVAC filter is also important for the unit to run effectively. When your filter is too dirty or clogged, the unit will need to work harder and will require the use of more energy. If you don’t replace your filter regularly, it may ultimately result in higher energy costs as your HVAC unit must work harder.

Better Temperature Control

Many homeowners also do not realize the importance of replacing HVAC filters for temperature control in the home. Especially for summer, a dirty filter can impair your unit’s ability to properly cool the home.
Have questions about keeping your HVAC unit running properly? Contact us today at John A. Kinkaid to schedule an appointment.

Replacing Your Thermostat with a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostat

Smart thermostats are becoming increasingly popular, allowing homeowners to adjust their thermostats remotely. Equipped with the most recent technology, smart thermostats connect through WiFi and allow users to adjust temperature settings remotely from the web or their mobile devices. 

If you’re thinking about upgrading your old thermostat to a smart thermostat, check out this guide to help you learn about the basics.

Benefits of a Smart Thermostat

One of the most obvious benefits of a smart thermostat is the ability to adjust temperature settings in your home from anywhere. This means you can adjust your heating or cooling on your way home from work – so you’ll enter your home at the perfect temperature. Others enjoy the remote control settings to keep the home at a comfortable temperature for pets while away.

Even while in your home, adjusting your smart thermostat from afar can save you a trip downstairs. Whether you’re feeling cold in the middle of the night or simply don’t want to get up from the couch, your thermostat can be controlled right from your smartphone app.

In addition to remote controls, a smart thermostat can also help to save energy and help you cut costs on your monthly bill. When the thermostat senses inactivity in the home, temperatures automatically adjust to help cut costs when no one is in the home. The smart thermostat data can also help you identify where and when you’re using the most energy so you can find new ways to cut costs.

What to Know Before Buying

Before you purchase a smart thermostat, there are a few important considerations to think about first. First and foremost, you’ll want to ensure the compatibility between your HVAC unit and the smart thermostat model you want to purchase. Smart thermostats are compatible with many units, but especially old units may not be compatible. If you’re not sure about connecting your unit, reach out to the HVAC experts at John A. Kinkaid heating and cooling.

The Benefits of Duct Cleaning

Benefits of Duct Cleaning

Like all other parts of your home, your air ducts need cleaning and maintenance too. Despite the benefits of duct cleaning, many homeowners overlook this important task. For those who are especially sensitive to allergens, having your ducts cleaned is even more important as it helps to improve the air quality inside your home.

If you’re not sure about duct cleaning for your home, keep reading. Below, we’ll break down why duct cleaning is so important and dive into some of the benefits of duct cleaning you may not have considered. John A. Kinkaid Heating & Cooling offers exceptional duct cleaning services at reasonable prices.

Benefits of Duct Cleaning: Better Air Quality Inside Your Home

Given how much time we spend in our homes, we must maintain healthy air quality inside the home. The air that circulates throughout the vents in your home is the same air you’re consistently breathing in, so we want to ensure it is free of allergens. 

Having your ducts cleaned ensures that pollutants, such as pet dander and dust, are removed and helps improve the air quality within your home. Other harmful particles might also accumulate in your home’s ducts over time, such as carbon monoxide and pesticides which may result in long-term health problems.

Cleaning your ducts regularly can mean fewer respiratory symptoms and a better quality of life for those with asthma, allergies, or other chronic conditions.

Prolong Your HVAC Unit’s Lifespan

The last thing a homeowner like you wants to hear is that they need to purchase an expensive new HVAC unit. Having dirty ducts means that your unit has to work harder and can cause wear and tear. So, regular duct cleaning can help you keep your HVAC unit in better shape by helping to reduce wear and tear on the unit’s components.

Let Us Help Clean Your Home’s Ducts

Need help finding a trusted professional for your home’s duct cleaning? Our years of expertise and experienced team of friendly staff make us the best choice for a consistent and thorough job. Contact us today by completing an online form or giving us a call to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you improve the air quality in your home!

How to Find the Right HVAC Company for You 

When the time comes to choose an HVAC company, you may discover there are numerous options available in your area. Initially, it might appear that all HVAC companies provide similar services, making it challenging to make a selection.

Of course, price and availability come into play when choosing an HVAC company. But what other factors should you consider? This guide will help you explore how to find the right HVAC company for your needs.

Start with Referrals from Friends or Family

While word-of-mouth referrals may seem outdated, they remain one of the most reliable ways to find a trustworthy HVAC company. Many satisfied customers of John A. Kinkaid Heating and Cooling recommend us to their friends, family, and colleagues. Trusting a company recommended by someone you know can provide peace of mind, ensuring your job will be professionally and correctly handled.

How to Find the Right HVAC Company: Culture and Values

You can learn a lot about an HVAC company by asking the right questions. You may find this information on the company website, but you might also have to dig and speak to someone directly to get the right answers. For example, at John A. Kinkaid Heating and Cooling, we have an enthusiastic atmosphere with a family-oriented vibe. We take our work seriously and strive to maintain a sense of compassion both amongst our staff and the customers we serve.

Although it may seem slightly uncomfortable to ask questions to a prospective company, it can go a long way in helping you to find a company you trust. Reading the company’s “about us” page can also help you learn more about their practices and background.

Experience and Years in Industry

It’s only normal to want to get the best deal on your HVAC services for your home or business. However, be mindful that a deal that seems too good to be true could be worrisome. Always look into the company’s years of experience, reviews, and years in the industry. Our 100+ years of stability in the HVAC industry sets us apart! Learn more by contacting us today.

HVAC Considerations When Buying a New Home

When it comes time to buy a new home, there are plenty of questions you’re bound to have. From the age of the home to which school district it’s in, there are many things buyers know to look out for when shopping around. However, paying attention to the HVAC unit when considering a home is one thing that is often overlooked.

Most homebuyers are not experts in HVAC systems and aren’t quite sure of the right questions to ask. As such, we’ve designed a comprehensive guide of things to pay attention to. We’re experts in all things heating and cooling – and we’re here to help! 

Things to Look for in an HVAC System

On a house tour, one easy thing to pay attention to is the home’s duct system. A duct system impacts how well air blows around your home which could make or break its enjoyment. Circular ducts are often a top choice for efficiency and quiet operation, preferred over rectangular ducts. If ducts need to be cleaned, John A. Kinkaid Heating and Cooling can help!

A house inspection should always review the status of the HVAC system and involve an inspection of the duct. In this, you should be able to identify any potential problems or leaks within the duct system. 

winter hvac maintenance

Age and Efficiency 

If a seller disclosure is provided, be sure to carefully read through the portion about the HVAC system to see when it was installed and if there are any known issues with the unit. Newer HVAC systems installed within the last five to ten years are more likely to have better energy efficiency ratings, which can help keep your monthly energy bill down. Air conditioner, heat pump, and furnace energy efficiencies each are rated on their own scales.

If the home is a decent size square footage, a non-energy efficient HVAC unit could result in some expensive monthly energy bills. Don’t be afraid to ask the seller of the home to provide copies of monthly bills to help you better estimate your expenses.

We Can Help

Understanding the details of HVAC operation and maintenance doesn’t need to come naturally to you as a homeowner. As your trusted HVAC partner, John A. Kinkaid Heating and Cooling is here to help. To learn more about our services, contact us today!

5 Reasons Not to Neglect HVAC Maintenance

Being a homeowner requires more “chores” than you’d think! With busy work schedules and hectic family lives, many homeowners neglect important HVAC maintenance – and we understand why. While it’s easy to forget about regular HVAC maintenance, it’s actually one of the most important tasks you have as a homeowner. Below, learn five reasons why you really don’t want to neglect maintenance for your home’s heating and cooling system.

  1. Extended Lifespan 

It’s no secret that regular HVAC maintenance can extend the lifespan of your unit. At least once a year, your unit should be inspected and serviced by a professional. Our team at John A. Kinkaid is here to help, ensuring the longest possible lifespan for your unit.

  1. Prevent Costly Repairs

Neglecting small issues in your HVAC unit can manifest into larger, more costly problems. That’s why we recommend investing in annual maintenance, which allows us to catch small repairs before they become big problems. If you’ve ever had a major HVAC repair occur, you know these repairs can quickly become expensive.

  1. Safety and Operation

Servicing your home’s HVAC unit is also important for your and your family’s safety. Equipment that has a leak or is not working properly could cause a potential malfunction, which could be unsafe for anyone living in the home.

  1. Better Air Quality

One important role of your home’s HVAC system is to filter the air. Keeping a clean filter will ensure the air within your home is safer and cleaner. Poor air quality in a home could lead to long-term health consequences.

  1. Save Money on Energy Bills

A system that has to work harder will require more energy, which can quickly run up your monthly bill. By servicing your HVAC unit regularly, you’ll help ensure it runs with the most optimal energy efficiency. In turn, this means more money in your pocket.

Let Us Help with HVAC Maintenance

Did you know John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning offers flexible service plans? Ask us about creating a maintenance schedule so you never forget to book an important maintenance appointment. Contact us today to learn more!

Candle Safety for Your HVAC System

Fall is finally here, which means exciting fall leaves and pumpkin spice aroma candles in the air. While candles make an excellent addition to your home’s decor and scent, homeowners should be aware of important candle safety tips before lighting candles. When burning a candle in a home with an HVAC system, take these expert times from John A. Kinkaid into consideration!

Placement of Your Candles  

The placement of your candles throughout your home is more important than you’d think! Before lighting a candle, be sure to place candles away from vents, ducts, and any air intake vents. The heat and airflow while your HVAC runs heat in the cooler months could cause a fire hazard or damage your system. Candles can safely be placed on tables, coffee tables, or other flat, even surfaces.

candle safety

Be Mindful of Flammable Items

While this may seem obvious, it’s worth mentioning as it is exceptionally important. When lighting candles, be aware of surrounding items that may be flammable, such as curtains or other hanging objects. Any drafts from your HVAC system could cause the flame to blow toward these flammable items, posing a serious risk for your home, as well as your health and safety.

Keep an Eye on Candles

It can be easy to light a candle and get immersed in the scent, forgetting to keep an eye on the candle itself. When lighting candles, keep a watchful eye and remain in the room where the candle is lit. Never leave your house without blowing out the candle first. Most candles should not be burned for more than four hours at a time.

Get a Wick Trimmer

A wick trimmer is an easy, inexpensive device that can help you quickly snip wicks to the appropriate length. For the safest environment, keep your wicks trimmed to ¼ of an inch at all times. This means you may need to trim the wick before each use. Wicks that are too long could cause a fire hazard.

Ask Us HVAC Candle Questions

Have questions about lighting candles in your home while running your HVAC system? Speak to the experts at John A. Kinkaid today. We’re happy to help!

Common HVAC Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them

Throughout the summer, we all rely on our air conditioning units to keep us cool and dry during the brutal heat. However, if you’ve noticed your air conditioner struggling to keep up, this might indicate a problem is on the horizon. Before you panic, consider these common HVAC problems and how to troubleshoot them. Of course, John A. Kinkaid Heating and Air Conditioning’s expert technicians are always here to help.

Very Loud Operation  

Is your air conditioning unit making some strange noises? Any type of unusual rattling noises or banging are likely to suggest something is going wrong within your HVAC unit. In some cases, lack of lubrication can be the cause of these issues. In some cases, loose components like screws or bolts could also be the issue. 

If your unit is making noises and you can’t seem to figure out why, we can help. Our technicians can closely identify the root cause of the issues, helping to address concerns before they manifest into more time-consuming and expensive problems.

common HVAC problems

House Doesn’t Seem Cold

Turned your AC all the way down and it still feels warm? If your unit is struggling to cool your home, this might suggest other internal issues within the unit. Decreased efficiency not only leaves your home feeling warm, but can lead to an expensive energy bill. Don’t ignore these issues for too long, or they can become worsened issues. 


Call John A. Kinkaid to inspect your air conditioning unit. Poor efficiency in an HVAC unit could be caused by dirty coils or even refrigerant leaks. In some cases, it may also have to do with issues in the ductwork. With our years of experience and education in heating and cooling, our qualified technicians arrive at your home or business well-equipped to perform a thorough check.

Let Us Help Fix Your HVAC Concerns

Not sure what’s wrong with your air conditioner? We can help. Contact John A. Kinkaid today to schedule an appointment for an air conditioner check-up. We’ll perform an inspection of your unit, providing a clear and detailed explanation and recommendation for a course of action. We can’t wait to help you!