John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

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!

Reasons to Use a Professional HVAC Company

No homeowner wants to find out their home needs HVAC work. When it comes to heating and cooling issues, trusting a professional HVAC company can help save you time, effort, and a lot of hassle. Your home’s HVAC system is likely to use gas or electricity to function, which can also cause unsafe conditions for people who are inexperienced in HVAC repairs.

professional HVAC company

Although it may be tempting to cut costs and try to repair your HVAC unit yourself, the safety risk is not worth it! Instead, trusting a professional HVAC company like John A. Kinkaid can help offer the support and advice you need, ensuring a safe and quality HVAC repair or replacement. Below, learn more reasons why it’s always best to trust the experts when it comes to your HVAC needs.

Get Advice & Guidance

If your home has an old or broken HVAC unit, there are many scenarios that could have occurred. When you use an experienced HVAC company, you’ll get the advice and guidance you need to make the smartest decision. Whether it’s repairing or replacement of your unit, the professional team at John A. Kinkaid has the expertise and years of experience to help steer you in the right direction. This advice and guidance can mean a cost-saving, too!

Assurance

A DIY attempt to repair an HVAC unit could result in a lot of havoc. If you’re not entirely sure what you’re doing, you may lack the assurance you need throughout the process. Many people attempt to perform repairs only to get stuck and feel concerned about the safety and operation of their unit. Instead, trusting a professional HVAC repair and replacement company from the start helps give you the peace of mind you need, while ensuring your home will be optimally cooled or heated to your preferences.

Long-Term Support

If you choose to replace your HVAC unit, maintenance is a very important component to ensuring you get the maximum lifespan out of your new unit. John A. Kinkaid offers long-term support with a variety of service plans to help you take the best care of your unit. Consider a service plan investment in the longevity of your unit, helping you to maximize your investment.

Let Us Help!

Ready to get started? Our team of expert heating and cooling specialists can’t wait to help! Contact us today to learn more of the exciting benefits of working with us as your expert HVAC company.

Using Your Ceiling Fan Effectively

As we enter the warm summer months, many people are using their ceiling fans more frequently. While it may seem easy to simply use a ceiling fan, there are some tips and tricks that can help you get the most out of your fan. Below, check out some tips to help you use your ceiling fan more effectively this summer, from the heating and cooling experts at John A. Kinkaid!

Rotation of the Fan Blades

Did you know that most fans can actually change directions? Many ceiling fans have a switch that allows you to change the direction the blades go. During the warm summer months, it’s recommended to set the fan counterclockwise to create a cooling effect. On the other hand, running the fan in a clockwise fashion during the colder months will help circulate warm air throughout the room.

Positioning of Furniture in Room

The position of your furniture in a room can also impact how well your fan works. When considering furniture positioning, ensure there’s enough space between the ceiling fan and other objects. This helps to prevent obstructions that can interfere with the fan’s airflow and efficiency. 

ceiling fan

Turn the Fan Off when Leaving the Room

If you’re not in a room, be sure to turn off your ceiling fan before leaving. This helps conserve energy and help reduce your monthly energy bills. Leaving fans running in every room throughout the summer can quickly increase your energy usage.

Don’t Forget to Clean the Blades

When was the last time you cleaned your ceiling fan blades? This easy-to-forget spot is often missed, even during household deep cleanings. Dust and debris that accumulates on your fan blades can circulate within the area, causing worsened allergies or other respiratory symptoms. Incorporate fan blade cleaning into your cleaning schedule to help ensure cleaner air quality.

To properly clean your blades, use a damp cloth or a soft brush to gently wipe each blade.

We Can Help

Want to learn more ways to maximize the cooling of your home this summer? The experts at John A. Kinkaid can help. As experts in air conditioning,  we can help you find new ways to maximize your home’s cooling and enhance energy efficiency!

Using Your Ceiling Fan in Combination with your HVAC Unit

With the hot summer approaching, it comes the time of year that most homeowners dread. The brutal summer months can leave homeowners with pricey air conditioning bills, especially those with older HVAC units that do not function optimally. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to prepare for the heat to keep your energy bill to a minimum.

Using your Ceiling Fan

Does your home have ceiling fans in rooms like bedrooms or living spaces? If so, you’ll want to take advantage of these throughout the summer. One recommended tip is to set your thermostat a few degrees higher in the heat and turn the ceiling fan on high.

While the fan can’t actually cool the air, the motion of air movement can make it feel like it’s cooler than it actually is (saving you money on cooling your home). This option is great to cool the room you’re currently in, without the need to pay to cool the entire home.

Using Fans when Sleeping

Many people find it difficult to sleep in hot environments, causing them to need to adjust their thermostat way down at night. To avoid this, try using the fan when sleeping to promote good air flow, as well as using light layers like a top sheet instead of a heavy comforter. 

Fans set to lower speeds may not produce the cooling effect like on high, however, it can still help produce extra circulation throughout the room.

Upgrade your HVAC System

Upgrading your HVAC system to an energy-efficient unit can help you save money on air conditioning throughout the warm summer months. Not sure where to start? Let the heating and cooling experts at John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning help. We can help you assess if a HVAC repair or replacement is the best choice to improve the air conditioning in your home.

Ready to get started? Request an appointment today by completing an online form or giving us a call. We look forward to helping you reduce your monthly energy bill and have a cool and comfortable home all summer long!

The Benefits of Upgrading Your HVAC System

As we head into the spring and summer seasons, warmer weather is upon us. Many people enjoy the springtime temperatures, which allow them to stop using heating or air conditioning for a few months. However, with the brutal summer temperatures just around the corner, it’s important to ensure your HVAC system is prepared to properly cool your home.

Before summer hits, it is a great time to update an old or inefficient HVAC system. Below, explore some top reasons why you can benefit from updating your old HVAC system. At John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning, we have the knowledge and expertise to help you select the best energy-efficient HVAC system for your home!

Enjoy the Summer in Comfort

With temperatures in the summer months frequently over 90 degrees, your HVAC system will need to work harder to cool your home. An old or outdated system may no longer be able to effectively cool your home, leaving to less-than-desirable temperatures throughout the home. In addition, older HVAC systems may have uneven cooling in each room, causing some rooms to be colder than others.

If it’s time to replace your unit, consider doing so now to enjoy a comfortable summer. If you’re not sure what HVAC unit is best for you, ask one of our heating and cooling experts to help you. 

Quiet Operation 

Older HVAC units can be noisy, especially when they have to work hard in the summer months. If you’ve found your unit to be making strange noises, it may be time to consider a replacement. Newer HVAC units are designed to run more efficiently, leaving you with a quieter home. A new unit can make your home more comfortable, without noisy distractions.

Enhance Your Home’s Value

If you’re planning on selling your home, an outdated HVAC system can be a red flag for buyers. Not only will you benefit from a cooler home, but upgrading your system is a smart investment to make selling your home easier. 

Ready to upgrade your HVAC system this summer? Give us a call at John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning. We look forward to helping you upgrade your unit and experience the many benefits of a newer HVAC system!

How to Fix Uneven Heating and Cooling in Your Home

Uneven heating or cooling throughout your home can be extremely frustrating. As a homeowner, you want your home’s temperature to be consistent as you move around your home from room to room. However, many homeowners deal with the constant frustration of uneven heating and/or cooling throughout the home. But why does this common problem occur?

Common Reasons for Uneven Heating or Cooling

1. Dirty Air Filters

Dirty air filters can impair your heating and cooling system’s ability to function properly. When your air filter becomes dirty with air particles, pollen, dust, and other debris, your system must work harder in order to circulate air throughout your home. 

If you’ve noticed uneven heating or cooling, it may be worth checking your air filter. Air filters should be cleaned and/or replaced regularly to ensure the optimal functioning of your HVAC unit.

2. Windows or Drafts

Have you made sure all of the windows throughout the home are closed? While it may seem obvious, it’s common for homeowners to miss small openings or drafts in windows. Even small window openings can allow air to enter your home, affecting the temperature in a specific room in your home.

3. Old HVAC Systems

While HVAC systems are known for their longevity, they certainly don’t last forever. If your unit is greater than 15 years old, uneven heating or cooling might be a sign it’s time to consider a replacement. As HVAC systems age, they may not be able to keep up with your heating and cooling demands.

4. Leaking or Blocked Ductwork

If a leak or a block occurs in your home’s ductwork, this can also impair the ability of the unit to evenly heat or cool your home. Check to ensure your vents are wide open and are not obstructed by any household items like furniture. John A. Kinkaid Heating & Cooling can also help you check for leaking or blocked ductwork during your appointment. 

Let Us Help You with Uneven Heating or Cooling

Can’t seem to troubleshoot why your home’s temperatures are uneven? We can help! Schedule an appointment online or by giving us a call. Our experienced technicians will be happy to help you determine the cause of uneven heating and cooling throughout your home.

What Makes John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning Different?

When homeowners search for an HVAC company in the area, they’re quickly overwhelmed with dozens of companies. While many may claim they’re experts, this is not always the case. At John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning, we set ourselves apart from our competitors by following up on every one of our claims.

At John A. Kinkaid, we mean it when we say experience. With over 100 years of stability in the industry, our family-oriented business delivers the expertise you’re looking for. Our compassionate team understands the value of your home, treating every home like it’s our own. Throughout each step of the process, we keep our customers in-the-know and provide guidance and education on all things HVAC.

Since 1917, we’ve proudly served households and businesses in Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware, Philadelphia, and Chester counties. Through our years in the industry, we’ve earned a reputation as a reliable and professional HVAC company, offering exceptional value to our customers.

In addition to providing exceptional HVAC services, we believe in giving back to our local community. Check out our community page to learn more about our involvement with local organizations and groups.

Looking for a one-stop shop for all of your HVAC needs? We’ve got you covered. Our services include:

Comprehensive Array of HVAC Services

  • Air Conditioning: Repair, preventative maintenance, installation
  • Heating: Repairs, emergency repairs, installation
  • Duct Cleaning
  • Water Heaters

Have other HVAC services? Ask us if we can help by contacting a member of our team. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have and help walk you through the service process.


The John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning Difference

We understand paying for these services can be difficult for some households. As such, we offer flexible payment and financing options to help better serve our customers. 

When you choose us for any of your HVAC needs, you’re choosing more than just a service. Each customer benefits from the extensive knowledge and expertise of our HVAC team. 

Ready to get started and see the John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning difference for yourself? Request an appointment online today!

3 Tips for Better Indoor Air Quality

While you often hear all about ways to reduce outdoor air pollution, it’s important not to forget the importance of the air we breathe inside our homes too. With the rise in work-from-home or hybrid work arrangements, Americans are spending more time in their homes than ever before. As such, it’s vital that homeowners take measures to keep their indoor air quality as high as possible. To help you get started, check out these three ways you can improve your home’s air quality!

3 Easy to Improve Your Home’s Air Quality

These three easy ways to improve your home’s air quality are just a few of the small measures you can take that make a huge difference in creating an environment with cleaner air.

1. Use Your Cooking Vents

Cooking vents located about your stovetop have an important purpose! If you usually forget to use this feature, it’s time to start! Gas stoves contain harmful chemicals that are released into the air during cooking. To help keep you home’s air cleaner, always turn on vents when cooking and open windows to improve ventilation.

2. Add Indoor Plants

Did you know that indoor plants serve more of a purpose than decor? Indoor houseplants can help trap pull contaminants out of the air. For example, try adding small plants around your home such as ferns. You’ll make your home look great while keeping it healthier!

3. Get Your Carpets and Rugs Cleaned

Keeping your home’s carpets and rugs is important to the air quality of the environment. While regular vacuuming is important, professional carpet and rug cleaning is a good idea at least once per year. By doing this, you’ll remove layers of imbedded dirt and debris and improve your home’s air quality.

Let Us Help You Keep Your Air Clean

Want to learn more ways to keep your home’s air clean and healthy? John A. Kinkaid Heating and Air Conditioning can help! Our HVAC professionals have all the tips, tricks, and knowledge to keep your home’s air clean and healthy. Contact us today by phone or email to learn more about how we can help you improve your home’s air quality.

HVAC Energy Saving Tips to Consider this Holiday Season

From finding the perfect presents to decorating your home for Christmas, the holiday season comes with many tasks. In addition to the never-ending list of tasks, the holiday season comes with serious expenses! While you’re spending money left and right on holiday activities, saving money on your energy bill doesn’t need to be difficult. This holiday season, check out these HVAC energy-saving tips to help you cut costs.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Saving money on HVAC costs during the holiday season is easy when you use a programmable thermostat. If you’re hosting gatherings for family or friends this season, create a customizable schedule to ensure your home is at the perfect temperature when you have guests over. For times of the day when you’ll be way, save money and conserve energy by adjusting the temperatures down.

If you’re planning on leaving for a vacation, set your HVAC system to a lower temperature to help cut costs. Know when you’re coming home? Set your schedule to warm your heat up an hour before you return home. This ensures your home will be comfy and cozy when arrive, without wasting money on unused heating.

Sealing Windows and Doors

Windows and doors must be properly sealed in order for your home to retain its heat. If there are areas where heat can escape, you’ll end up spending more to heat your home to the desired temperature. There are several ways homeowners can seal-proof their windows and doors, such as weatherstripping and window film.

Upgrade your HVAC System

Older HVAC systems simply do not offer the energy-saving benefits as newer systems. If your system is over 15 to 20 years old, it may be time to upgrade your HVAC system. Upgrading can offer you serious energy-saving benefits, which will pay off in the long term. That means more money to spend on holiday shopping!

Let Us Help You Save on HVAC Costs this Winter

At John A. Kinaid Heating and Air Conditioning, we want to help you save the most money on your HVAC bill this holiday season. Got questions about how to implement some of these tips in your home? We’d be happy to perform an HVAC assessment to ensure your system is operating at the highest energy efficiency. Contact us today at our toll-free number, 1-866-HEAT-106, and we’ll be happy to answer all of your energy-saving questions!