Air Conditioning Archives - Simmons Heating & Cooling

What Homeowners Should Know About SEER2 Ratings and How They Affect Energy Bills

September 7, 2026

Many homeowners wonder what a SEER2 rating is. SEER2 measures the seasonal cooling efficiency of central air conditioners and heat pumps. A higher rating means equipment can provide the same cooling output while using less electricity under standardized conditions. That can support lower energy bills during Chesapeake’s hot, humid summers. However, SEER2 does not predict an exact monthly bill. Savings also depend on system sizing, installation quality, thermostat settings, home efficiency, and cooling habits. Understanding these factors can help you compare new systems. Explore our AC services for professional cooling guidance in Chesapeake.

Why Is My Upstairs Hot and My Downstairs Cold? Fixes for Multi-Level Homes in Virginia

July 1, 2026

If your upstairs feels hot while your downstairs stays cool, you’re dealing with a common problem in multi-level homes. This issue is especially noticeable during Chesapeake’s hot and humid summers when upper floors absorb additional heat from the roof and attic. While some temperature variation between floors is normal, significant differences often point to airflow, ductwork, insulation, or cooling system concerns. The good news is that uneven temperatures can often be traced to a specific cause. Understanding why your upstairs is warmer than your downstairs can help you determine whether it’s time to schedule service with Simmons Heating & Cooling.

Do You Have an Oversized or Undersized AC? How to Tell and Why It Matters

May 1, 2026

Accurate sizing is essential to long-term air conditioning performance. The cooling output of your AC not only affects comfort but also energy efficiency, day-to-day expenses, and long-term costs. Let’s explore how to tell if your AC is oversized or undersized, along with the consequences and potential solutions. The Signs You Have an Oversized or Undersized AC A central AC will typically cycle for 10 to 15 minutes, while an undersized AC may run for 20 or more. You may notice the extended cycling even more during late afternoon or when there’s significant sunlight. It’s not uncommon to experience

HVAC Issues Coastal Homes Face and How to Prevent Them

April 1, 2026

Living near the coast comes with a lot to love, but it can be hard on your HVAC system. Salt in the air, heavy moisture, and strong weather shifts can wear on equipment faster than many homeowners expect. At Simmons Heating & Cooling, in Chesapeake, VA, we help homeowners protect their systems from the conditions that come with coastal living. Salt Air Can Wear Down Outdoor Equipment Fast Coastal air does not treat outdoor HVAC equipment gently. Salt moves through the air and settles on the condenser coil, cabinet, and other metal parts. Once that buildup starts, corrosion can

What to Do if Your AC Fails Unexpectedly in the Heat

August 1, 2025

Most residential AC systems will work reliably for at least 15 years with proper care. Unfortunately, however, they don’t always choose an opportune time to fail. They may quit in the middle of the summer, right when you need them most. When that happens, it’s easy to panic. To help avoid that, here is an overview of what to do when your AC fails unexpectedly. What Is an AC Emergency? Whenever your AC fails, you’ll probably think it’s an emergency. However, not every circumstance calls for immediate—and more costly—emergency repairs. To avoid unnecessary costs, it’s a

How to Stay Cool During a Summer Power Outage in Virginia

June 3, 2025

If the power goes out in your Chesapeake, VA home, indoor temperatures can climb quickly, creating a potentially dangerous situation. Extreme heat is more than just uncomfortable. When indoor temperatures rise above 85°F, the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke increases, especially for older adults, young children, and people with underlying health conditions. In severe cases, indoor temperatures can exceed 100°F within hours, putting everyone in the home at risk. Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take to stay as cool as possible until the power is restored. Read on for tips from our

Common AC Issues That Can Be Avoided With Regular Maintenance

August 13, 2024

When summer temperatures are at their highest in Corona, CA, this is when air conditioning systems are working the hardest to keep your home cool. Unfortunately, complex systems like ACs require ongoing upkeep to keep them working properly. When homeowners neglect regular system maintenance by a professional HVAC technician, various issues can occur. Ignoring Maintenance and AC Issues When regular AC maintenance isn’t performed by a professional, these are some of the common issues that can happen: Refrigerant Leak Refrigerant is a crucial part of the cooling process for your home’s

The Pros And Cons of Different Types of AC Units

May 13, 2024

Whether you need to replace your home’s existing cooling system or are looking for your very first one, it can be overwhelming to narrow down your options. From central air conditioning systems to heat pumps, each one comes with its own pros and cons. By learning about each one, you will be better informed when deciding what unit to purchase. Central Air Conditioning One of the most popular home cooling systems is central air conditioning. This system relies on already-established ductwork to circulate air throughout your home. It consists of two main units, which are the

My Air Conditioner is Dripping—What Do I Do?

August 16, 2023

If you’ve ever felt the sudden shock of cold water dripping on your head in the middle of summer when you least expect it, then you know that feeling of panic all too well. And while most cases don’t involve a full-on flood in your home, they do usually mean that you have an air conditioner issue that needs attention. 1. Check the Drain Pan and Clear Any Debris The drain pan is part of your air conditioner where condensation collects and is eventually released through the drainage system. When the pan becomes blocked with

5 Ways to Determine the Best Size HVAC System for Your Home

May 20, 2022

When the weather starts to change, you probably begin thinking about turning on your cooling or heating system for the first time. But before you do that, you need to make sure that your current HVAC system is the right size for your home. If it is too small, it will not be able to heat your house adequately. On the other hand, if it is too big, it will waste energy and cost more money to operate. Here are some tips on choosing the best-sized HVAC system for your property. 1. Size of Your Home

Category Air Conditioning

What Homeowners Should Know About SEER2 Ratings and How They Affect Energy Bills

Why Is My Upstairs Hot and My Downstairs Cold? Fixes for Multi-Level Homes in Virginia

Do You Have an Oversized or Undersized AC? How to Tell and Why It Matters

HVAC Issues Coastal Homes Face and How to Prevent Them

What to Do if Your AC Fails Unexpectedly in the Heat

How to Stay Cool During a Summer Power Outage in Virginia

Common AC Issues That Can Be Avoided With Regular Maintenance

The Pros And Cons of Different Types of AC Units

My Air Conditioner is Dripping—What Do I Do?

5 Ways to Determine the Best Size HVAC System for Your Home

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