John A. Kinkaid Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

Heater Stopped Working? 3 Common Problems

Heater Stopped Working

Winter has officially arrived. This season marks a time when many of us rely on our HVAC units to stay comfortable. If you’ve been in a situation where your heater stopped working, you already know it’s a major inconvenience. In this post, the experts at Kinkaid provide troubleshooting tips on 3 common heating problems and how to fix them. 

Looking for expert heating repair, Ambler, PA homeowner? Give the team at Kinkaid a ring at (215) 646-5577 or visit us online to book services.     

Common Heating Issues

Homeowners are bound to run into heating troubles, even with regular visits from an HVAC professional. Let’s look at 3 common heating problems and how to troubleshoot them.

Clogged Air Filters

If you’re experiencing weak air flow and/or reduced indoor air quality, it’s a good idea to check your HVAC air filters. An air filter should allow light to shine through when held up to a light source. If it doesn’t, the odds are your unit is having trouble filtering and moving air throughout the system. 

Replace air filters every 30-90 days, depending on your household. You can find information like sizing printed on the frame of your old filter, and most home improvement stores carry standard HVAC air filters. 

Blocked Outdoor Condenser Unit 

If your HVAC system includes an outdoor condenser unit and you notice a loss in heating efficiency, you might want to head outside. The outdoor unit needs at least a 2-ft clearance around it to allow for proper airflow. Trim back any nearby trees, bushes and shrubbery to give your unit the required space. 

It’s also important to carefully remove any leaves, twigs, branches, seeds or nuts that get trapped between the unit’s metal fins. 

Check Your Thermostat 

This one is simple, but it’s often the culprit behind heating headaches. Check to ensure your thermostat is set to ON and that it reflects your desired indoor temperature. This device is responsible for kicking on your unit in the first place, so it’s a good idea to check or replace the batteries if your unit doesn’t seem to turn on when it should. 

Homeowners will also want to pay attention to the placement of a thermostat, keeping it out of direct sunlight and away from sources of unusually hot or cold air.  

Best HVAC Company Ambler PA 

If your heater stopped working and you’re unable to solve the issue at home, have a qualified HVAC technician take a look. Our team is on call and ready to help get your home back on track this winter. Give us a call at (215) 646-5577 or contact us online to book heating services today. 

5 Signs You Need to Replace HVAC Unit

Winter is at the doorstep. As temperatures drop, many of us rely on our HVAC units to keep our homes warm and cozy. A heater on the fritz can take the “merry” right out of the cold months. In this post, our experts discuss 5 signs it’s time to replace HVAC unit Willow Grove homeowners should be on the lookout for. Let’s dive in. 

Replace HVAC Unit: 5 Warning Signs

Depending on the age of your unit, many heating problems can be solved with regular HVAC maintenance or professional HVAC repair. That said, it’s good to know the warning signs of a unit that’s on its way out. That way homeowners can plan for proactive HVAC replacement. 

Keep an eye out for the following:

The Age of Your Unit

On average, HVAC units last 12–17 years. Diligent maintenance can even keep a unit going strong for up to 20 years. If your HVAC system is 15 years or older, consider weighing the cost of frequent repairs against installing a new, energy efficient unit. 

Decreased Heating Efficiency

If you’re keeping up with regular HVAC maintenance but your old unit still struggles to heat or cool your home like it used to, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. A qualified HVAC technician can evaluate your system and recommend the most cost-effective course of action. 

New or Unpleasant Odors

An aging unit may have greater difficulty filtering out air pollutants, or it may become more prone to harboring mold and mildew growth. If musty odors persist despite your best cleaning efforts, have a professional take a look. 

Refrigerant Leaks

When an old unit has a severe refrigerant leak, it can warrant extensive repairs. It’s always wise to weigh the cost of repairing an aging unit against installing a new one. 

New or Odd Noises

Some amount of operational noise is normal, but if you notice new, invasive or strange noises when your old unit runs, it could indicate that essential components like the blower or motor are struggling to keep up. An HVAC pro can let you know replacing a part will fix your troubles, or whether it’s time for an upgrade. 

HVAC Installation in Willow Grove, PA

The team at Kinkaid is proud to offer professional HVAC installation, HVAC repair and HVAC maintenance services. Our technicians will evaluate your home and make the best recommendations for your needs and budget.
Give us a call at (215) 657-1262 or visit us online to get started today. 

5 Ways to Cut Down Your Heating Bill

As the days get shorter and the weather turns cold, one thing is clear: winter is coming. Savvy homeowners are looking for ways to help lower their heating costs this season and we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn 5 ways you can lower your heating bill this cold season.

Looking for expert heating repair, Roslyn PA neighbor? The team at Kinkaid is ready to help. Call (215) 657-1262 or contact us online to get started. 

Lower Heating Costs with These 5 Tips

We all like to stay warm and cozy when temperatures drop, but that doesn’t mean our utility bills need to skyrocket. Homeowners can save big with the following cost-cutting tips:

Turn Down the Thermostat

Lowering the thermostat by just 2–3 degrees will help lower heating costs across the cold season. It’s also wise to lower your desired temp if you are away from home during the day or while you sleep at night. Programmable thermostats make it easy to synchronize temperature changes with your schedule. 

Check Windows and Doors

Air leaks in areas like windows and doors can cause heated air to escape outside or into unused spaces. Keep your heating system extra efficient by performing maintenance on window and door frames, such as updating weather strips or tightening loose hardware.

Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks can also occur in spaces like your air ducts. This allows warm air to escape into unused spaces like the attic before it reaches your living area. An HVAC professional can inspect your ductwork for leaks and seal any problematic areas before you start relying on your heat full time. 

Turn Down the Temp on Your Water Heater

Nothing beats a hot shower, but we don’t need scalding hot water. Lowering the max temperature on your water heater will help prevent your family from using excessively hot water.

Use Your Ceiling Fan

It may seem counterintuitive to run ceiling fans when the heat is on, but it’s wise to remember that heat rises. Homeowners can run ceiling fans on a low setting to help circulate warm air throughout your home more effectively. 

Get Professional HVAC Service From Kinkaid

Kinkaid has proudly served Montgomery, Bucks, Philadelphia and Chester Counties since 1917. We offer residential and commercial installation, maintenance and repair on all makes and models of HVAC equipment. Give us a call or contact us online to get started today!

3 Common Water Heater Problems

We rely on hot water for many essential tasks in the home, especially when it comes to cooking, cleaning and personal hygiene. A lack of hot water can be incredibly disruptive, but understanding your water heater and the causes behind common Ambler water heater repair issues can help you quickly determine the best course of action.

Common Types of Hot Water Heaters

The most common types of water heaters found in home and businesses include:

  • Heat Pump Water Heater — This is a hybrid system that utilizes a tank, typically drawing heat from the air.
  • Conventional Storage Tank Water Heaters — Water is heated and stored inside of an insulated storage tank. Conventional tanked water heaters may be gas or electric operated. 
  • Tankless Water Heaters — Tankless systems heat water on demand, which essentially gives homeowners an infinite hot water capacity.

3 Common Water Heater Problems

Despite the differences between water heater systems, there are common issues that crop up. Let’s investigate.

1. A Lack of Hot Water

If you experience a situation where there is no hot water at all, there may several causes, including:

  • A tripped breaker
  • A blown fuse
  • Thermostat issues
  • Broken or malfunctioning heating elements 
  • Pilot light problems or a faulty thermocouple (if the water heater is gas operated)

Start by checking the thermostat to ensure the system is on and set to the correct temperature. Next, check the electrical panel for a tripped breaker or blown fuse. If you are unable to find the issue, call a local HVAC professional to diagnose the problem.

2. Lukewarm or Insufficient Hot Water

If this issue is chronic, even with regular maintenance, your water heater may simply be too small to keep up with your household’s hot water demands. If water is lukewarm even when waiting in between uses, it’s possible that there is sediment build-up preventing heating elements from properly heating water. A qualified professional can flush and descale the unit.  

3. Discolored Water

If you notice brown, red or rust-colored water only when running hot water, it could indicate the presence of corrosion inside of the water tank. This could be due to a sacrificial anode rod — a component that attracts the electrolytes in tap water and helps prevent tank corrosion — that needs to be replaced. Anode rods typically need to be replaced every 5–10 years. If the corrosion has reached the tank lining, it’s likely time for a water heater replacement.

Call on the Team at Kinkaid

Kinkaid has been in business since 1917, and serving our community remains our top priority to this day. Our experts specialize in Ambler water heater repair, replacement and ongoing maintenance. Give us a call at (215) 646-5577 or visit us online to get started today.

How to Prepare Your HVAC Unit for Fall

As the seasons change, so do our home maintenance requirements. Forward-thinking homeowners know that prevention is key when it comes to home appliances and systems like water heaters, plumbing and HVAC units. If you’re on the hunt for the best HVAC company Ambler residents turn to for heating and air repairs, replacements and maintenance, look no further than John A. Kinkaid Heating and Air Conditioning Inc.

When Should Homeowners Schedule HVAC Maintenance?    

The team at Kinkaid recommends professional HVAC maintenance services twice a year — once in the spring to prepare your A/C unit for the summer, and once in the fall to ensure reliable heating throughout the cold months. Homeowners can take advantage of our annual HVAC tune-up deals or keep up with maintenance needs by enrolling in one of our comprehensive service plans. 

DIY Fall HVAC Maintenance

While regular, professional maintenance services are essential to the health and longevity of your HVAC system, there’s plenty homeowners can do in between visits. To help ensure your unit runs smoothly right when you need it the most, be sure to take care of the following simple fall HVAC maintenance tasks:

  • Change Air Filters — HVAC air filters should be changed every 30–90 days, depending on your lifestyle, location and number of pets in the home. 
  • Change Thermostat Batteries — It all starts with the thermostat. Faulty or dead batteries can often send homeowners on a wild goose chase of troubleshooting, only to find the problem lies with the thermostat. Swap out batteries that have been in use for an extended period of time to help save time and headaches later on. 
  • Clean the Outdoor Unit — Fall is the season when homeowners need to pay the most attention to their outdoor condenser units. Falling leaves, twigs, seeds, nuts and other types of natural debris can get caught in your condenser unit’s metal fins, blocking airflow or potentially causing damage. If any of these make their way into your unit, they can collect moisture, creating a risk for mold growth or corrosion. Be sure to remove any trapped debris, and keep the area around your condenser unit clean, trimming back nearby flora if necessary.

Schedule a Fall HVAC Tune-Up From Kinkaid

When you schedule a fall maintenance visit with the pros at Kinkaid, one of our fully trained, licensed and insured team members will clean and inspect your HVAC unit top to bottom. If any loose or worn parts are identified, we can fix the issue before it causes further damage or a premature system breakdown. 


Kinkaid proudly serves Willow Grove, Ambler, Roslyn and the neighboring areas with air conditioning and heating services. If you need water heater services, we can help with that too! Give us a call at +1 (866) HEAT-106 or contact us online  today to get started.

5 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your A/C Unit

Ambler AC repair

Many Ambler AC repair and maintenance tasks are quick and easy to DIY, such as replacing air filters. Others, not so much. It can be difficult to know when it’s worth investing in extensive A/C repairs and when it’s time to replace your HVAC unit outright. Read on for 5 signs it’s time to replace your A/C unit. 

A/C Replacement: 5 Warning Signs

Annual A/C tune-ups from a professional HVAC technician will go a long way toward extending the life of your unit and preventing major breakdowns. That said, all units reach the end of their lifespan eventually. Keep an eye out for these signs:

  1. Age of Unit

On average, HVAC units have a lifespan of 12–15 years. With proper care and maintenance, a quality unit might even last for up to 20 years. That said, if your unit is more than 12-years-old, it’s time to start thinking about and planning for a replacement. 

  1. Frequent Repairs and Breakdowns

If you find yourself dealing with frequent breakdowns and expensive repairs, a new unit may be more cost-effective in the long run. This is especially true as a unit ages, as it may become necessary to replace multiple component parts. These costs can quickly add up and may not be a wise investment in a unit that is already on the fritz.

  1. Loss of Cooling Efficiency

Even with repairs and regular maintenance, an older unit is likely to become less effective over time. As we fill our homes with modern, heat-generating appliances, aging units may no longer be able to keep up with cooling demands.

  1. Rising Energy Costs

An uptick in utility bills during the warm season could point to a unit in need of replacing. Older units may strain to keep up, using more energy in the process. In some cases, a unit that is improperly sized for the space that it’s in can use more energy than necessary. 

  1. Accessibility 

Those who intend on aging in place or residents who value easy access may want to consider installing a unit that makes regular maintenance tasks (like cleaning or replacing air filters) a breeze. 

Need Ambler AC Repair? Kinkaid Heating and Air Conditioning Can Help! 

Kinkaid has proudly served Montgomery, Bucks, Philadelphia and Chester Counties since 1917. We offer residential and commercial installation, maintenance and repair on all makes and models of HVAC equipment. Give us a call or contact us online to get started today!

What Causes Low Airflow in Your A/C?

what causes low AC airflow

Low or impeded A/C airflow can cause problems ranging from a loss of cooling efficiency to more serious issues, like premature breakdowns. Understanding the reason for low airflow will help you prevent them and understand when it’s time to call a professional. Read on to learn what causes low AC airflow. 

The Signs of Low Airflow in Your A/C 

Low airflow causes your unit to work harder, raising utility costs and increasing wear and tear. Keep an eye out for the following signs:

  • No Air—if no air comes out of your vents when the unit runs, airflow may be completely blocked. 
  • Uneven Cooling—one of the first signs of airflow problems occurs when you experience hot and cold pockets in the home.   
  • Warm Air Blows Out—if warm air blows out instead of cooled air, it’s time to call a pro.

What Causes Low AC Airflow?

Some of the reasons for low airflow have simple fixes, while others warrant professional HVAC services. Let’s take a look:

1. Airflow Around Your Condenser Unit

Your outdoor condenser unit releases warm air removed from your home to the outside. Nearby trees, bushes and shrubbery can encroach on your condenser unit, blocking airflow around it and preventing it from releasing warm air. Trim back surrounding flora to ensure a roughly 2-ft clearance around your condenser at all times. 

2. Clogged Air Filters

Dirty HVAC air filters won’t allow air to pass through your unit efficiently. Air filters need to be replaced (or cleaned, if reusable) every 30-90 days, depending on your climate, lifestyle and the number of pets in the home. 

3. Dirty Air Ducts

The air ducts in your home transport cooled air from your HVAC unit to your air vents. A build-up of dust, mold growth or insect and rodent infestations can clog up your air vents, blocking air flow. Have air ducts inspected and cleaned annually to prevent this issue. 

4. Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant levels are a common cause for airflow issues and indicate a unit that was undercharged to begin with or may point to a refrigerant leak. In either case, you’ll want to call a professional HVAC technician right away. 

5. Dirty Coils

Dirty condenser coils won’t be able to release warm air efficiently. Annual A/C tune-ups will help keep your coils clean and working. 

You Can Always Call on Kinkaid

Kinkaid serves Montgomery, Bucks, Philadelphia and Chester Counties with residential and commercial installation, maintenance and repairs on all makes and models of HVAC equipment. Our expert technicians are fully trained, licensed and insured to take care of all your HVAC needs. Contact us today to get started!

5 Ways to Make Your A/C Unit More Efficient

An HVAC unit is a necessary investment for any homeowner. Keeping up with regular A/C maintenance will help you lower your energy costs and extend the life of your unit by many years. In this post, the HVAC pros at Kinkaid share 5 ways to make your A/C unit more efficient this summer. 

How to Get the Most Out of Your HVAC Unit

Lower utility costs, reduce wear and tear on your system and enjoy cooling efficiency with these tips:

1. Change Air Filters Regularly

Air filters help trap and reduce airborne contaminants like pollen, dust and pet dander. A dirty or clogged air filter will impede airflow in your unit, preventing it from operating efficiently. Air filters should be cleaned (if reusable) or replaced every 30–90 days. The frequency depends on your location and the number of pets in the household.  

2. Seal Air Leaks

Ensure that the spaces around pet doors, windows and entrances are properly sealed or caulked. This prevents cooled air from escaping into unused areas like the attic or outdoors.

3. Install a Smart Thermostat 

A smart thermostat will enable you to set your system’s cooling schedule according to your own and control it from anywhere. By slightly increasing the temperature while you are away during the day, you can save big on utility costs and reduce unnecessary strain on your unit.

4. Run Ceiling Fans on Low

Warm air rises to areas where it may not get pulled into your unit for cooling. This leads to uneven hot or cold pockets throughout your home. A ceiling fan set to run on low doesn’t require much energy and it will help circulate air for even cooling throughout your living space.

5. Schedule Annual Tune-Ups 

An annual A/C tune-up means a qualified HVAC professional will inspect and clean your unit top to bottom. Loose or worn parts can be identified and repaired before they cause expensive problems down the road.

Work with Kinkaid

Kinkaid proudly serves Montgomery, Bucks, Philadelphia and Chester Counties. We offer residential and commercial installation, maintenance and repairs on all makes and models of HVAC equipment. Contact us today to get started!

Replace A/C Filters: Why it Matters

One of the best things you can do for your HVAC system is frequently change or clean its air filters. Clean air filters improve indoor air quality at home and help keep your unit efficient. In this post, the experts at Kinkaid discuss how to replace AC filter FAQs.

The Importance of Clean Air Filters

Air quality is often worse indoors than it is outside. Here’s what the air filters in your home help catch:

  • Dust and dirt
  • Pet hair 
  • Pollen
  • Dander
  • Mold and mold spores
  • Bacteria and other microorganisms
  • Fibers and lint

Air pollutants like these can exacerbate symptoms in allergy and asthma sufferers. If you or others in the home frequently experience runny noses, sneezing, coughing fits, headaches and nausea, poor air quality may be at work (always consult a doctor about symptoms first).

What are MERV Ratings on HVAC Filters?

The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating of an air filter indicates how effective it is. The higher an air filter’s MERV rating is, the smaller the particles it can trap. This means a higher MERV rating means you’re getting a more efficient filter. Residential HVAC units can use air filters with a MERV rating of up to around 12 before it becomes too difficult to push air through (higher MERV ratings, like 20, are typically reserved for medical settings). Your local Kinkaid HVAC technician can recommend the best MERV rating for your home.   

How Do Reusable Air Filters Work?

Washable or reusable air filters are a more eco-friendly option. These typically last for several years before they need to be replaced. Reusable air filters with high MERV rating can be difficult to find. Households where allergies or other respiratory challenges are a concern might benefit from using HEPA-type filters instead. 

How Do I Replace My A/C Air Filter?

You might have one to three (or more) return vents that pull air into your unit to be cooled (depending on the size of your home). To replace an air filter:

  1. Remove the grate in front of the return vent. 
  2. Check the old air filter for sizing (dimensions are often printed on the side of the filter’s frame). 
  3. Insert the new filter, ensuring any arrows printed on the frame point toward your ductwork, where air is being drawn in.  

As a general rule of thumb, replace or clean air filters every 90 days. This number will vary depending on your location, lifestyle and number of pets in the home. Aside from frequently replacing air filters, the best way to keep your unit efficient is to schedule annual maintenance from an HVAC professional.

Call Kinkaid For HVAC Maintenance

Kinkaid proudly serves Montgomery, Bucks, Philadelphia and Chester Counties. We offer residential and commercial installation, maintenance and repairs on all makes and models of HVAC equipment. Contact us today to get started!

5 HVAC Tips for Pet Owners

We love our pets, but all that fur can interfere with HVAC performance. Excessive pet hair and dander can clog up filters and air vents, impeding your unit’s efficiency and the air quality in your home. In today’s post, the experts at Kinkaid provide 5 HVAC tips for pet owners.

HVAC Maintenance with Pets

The following tips will help keep everyone happy and healthy:

1. Replace Air Filters

Dirty air filters keep your unit from running efficiently. Pet owners might need to replace air filters (or clean reusable filters) roughly every 30 days, depending on the number of pets in the home. HEPA-type air filters can be helpful to those who suffer from allergies.

2. Groom Your Pets.

Our pets tend to shed more in the spring and fall to prepare for a change in the weather. Regular grooming will help keep pet hair at bay. Extra attention during their shedding seasons will help ensure your HVAC unit keeps running smoothly.

3. Vacuum Often.

Managing pet hair takes on many forms. Vacuum carpets, couches and bedding frequently to keep pet hair out of your air filters and air ducts.

4. Adjust Your Thermostat.

Our pets are often less sensitive to temperature changes than we are. While it’s important to avoid extreme temperature changes with pets in the home, small changes can save you money over time. Set the thermostat 1–3°F higher in the summertime while you are away during the day to preserve your HVAC unit and save on utility costs. A programmable thermostat makes this easy.

5. Install Pet Doors Properly

Air leaks from pet doors that aren’t properly sealed during installation can drive up utility costs. Ensure pet doors are well caulked (sealed with a waterproof sealant) and secure them when they aren’t being used.

Get an Annual Tune-Up from Kinkaid!

The best way pet owners can prepare their A/C units for the spring and summer is to schedule an annual tune-up from Kinkaid. Our qualified technicians will clean your unit top-to-bottom and inspect it for loose or worn parts. We can also make maintenance recommendations based on your home and the number of pets you have. Kinkaid proudly serves Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware, Philadelphia, and Chester Counties. Contact us today to get started!