Heater Service Archives

5 Signs Your Heat Pump Needs Service Before It Leaves You in the Cold

October 14, 2025

When the cold weather rolls into Evansville, the last thing any homeowner wants is a heat pump that quits out of nowhere. I’ve seen it too many times—folks wait until their heat pump stops working completely before calling for help. That usually leads to a much bigger (and more expensive) problem. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we believe in keeping your home comfortable year-round. With just a little attention and timely heat pump service, you can avoid being left in the cold. If you notice any of the signs below, don’t ignore them—your heat pump might be trying to tell you it needs help. 1. Your Home Feels Colder Than Usual If your heat pump is running but your house still feels chilly, that’s a big red flag. You might even catch yourself turning up the thermostat more than usual but not getting any real warmth in return. It’s Not Always the Thermostat’s Fault Sure, sometimes a faulty thermostat could be the reason. But more often, poor heating means your heat pump isn’t working efficiently. It could be a refrigerant issue, clogged air filter, or even a failing compressor. Whatever it is, getting heat pump service early can stop a complete breakdown. 2. Strange Noises Are Coming from the Unit Heat pumps are usually pretty quiet. If yours starts making grinding, squealing, or rattling sounds, that’s a sign something is off. Noises Can Mean Big Trouble Those odd sounds might be caused by loose parts, motor problems, or even something more serious. Ignoring them could lead to permanent damage. When I hear customers mention “new noises,” I always recommend a professional check-up before it turns into a costly repair. 3. Your Energy Bills Are Suddenly Higher Nobody likes opening a utility bill and seeing the price jump unexpectedly. If your energy bills have spiked and nothing else has changed in your home, your heat pump may be working harder than it should. Higher Bills = Lower Efficiency A heat pump that needs servicing has to work overtime to keep up. That burns more energy and eats into your wallet. Getting regular heat pump maintenance keeps everything running smoothly and helps you save in the long run. 4. The System Short Cycles Short cycling is when your heat pump turns on and off too frequently. Instead of running steady and keeping your home at a comfortable temperature, it keeps starting and stopping every few minutes. What Causes Short Cycling? Short cycling could be caused by dirty filters, low refrigerant, or even an improperly sized unit. No matter the cause, short cycling puts a lot of wear and tear on your system. If you notice this happening, it’s time to schedule a heat pump service call right away. 5. There’s Ice on the Outdoor Unit While it’s normal for a little frost to build up on your heat pump during the winter, it should never be completely covered in ice. If it is, your system isn’t defrosting properly. Ice Is More Than Just a Cold Problem An iced-over unit can block airflow and stop the system from working at all. This is one of those problems that can sneak up on you and get worse fast. A trained technician can check the defrost cycle and make sure everything is functioning the way it should. Why You Should Call Brackett for Heat Pump Service We’ve been serving homeowners in Evansville, IN, and the surrounding areas since 1949. As a family-owned and operated business, we’ve built our name on honesty, quality, and doing things the right way—that’s what we call the Brackett Difference. We’re proud to be fully licensed and insured across the tri-state area of Indiana, Illinois, and Kentucky. When you call us for heat pump service, you can count on: Don’t Wait for the Cold to Get Worse Here’s the thing—I always tell customers it’s better to fix small issues before they turn into big problems. If your heat pump is showing even one of these five signs, don’t wait. Schedule a heat pump service with Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing and keep your family warm all winter long. Call Us Today or Book Online We’re just a phone call away. Or, if you’re like me and prefer quick online scheduling, head to our website and book your service today. Let’s make sure your heat pump is ready for whatever winter brings.

What To Do To Prevent a Frozen Heating System This Winter

February 11, 2025

Winter in Evansville, IN can be tough, especially when your heating system decides to freeze up at the worst possible time. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we know how frustrating and inconvenient a frozen heating system can be, especially when you’re just trying to stay warm. Since 1949, we’ve helped homeowners like you keep their homes comfortable by providing reliable HVAC services with integrity and honesty. To help you avoid dealing with a frozen heating system this winter, here are some practical tips to keep your heating running smoothly. How Does a Heating System Freeze Up? When we think of things freezing, furnaces or heat pumps don’t usually come to mind. However, certain parts of your heating system are vulnerable to freezing, especially in extreme cold. If your heat pump operates outside, freezing rain or ice can cover the outdoor unit and block airflow. For furnaces, freezing can happen when pipes connected to the system or condensate drains become clogged or exposed to freezing temperatures. A frozen heating system can cause serious problems, like poor heating efficiency, higher energy bills, and in some cases, a total breakdown. That’s why staying ahead of the cold is so important! Tips to Prevent Your Heating System from Freezing Here are a few simple things you can do to help prevent your heating system from freezing up during the colder months: 1. Keep Your Heat Pump Clear of Snow and Ice If you have a heat pump, it’s important to make sure the outdoor unit stays clear of snow and ice. A blocked unit can’t circulate air properly, which can cause it to freeze. After a heavy snowfall, clear off any buildup around the unit and make sure there’s plenty of open space for airflow. If freezing rain is in the forecast, try covering your heat pump with a tarp before the storm to prevent ice buildup. Just remember to remove it once the storm passes so the system can operate normally. 2. Insulate Pipes and Condensate Lines Pipes and condensate lines that are exposed to freezing temperatures can cause big problems for your heating system. Insulating these lines can help prevent freezing and keep things running smoothly. You can find pipe insulation at most hardware stores, and it’s an easy DIY job. Simply wrap the insulation around any exposed pipes or lines to keep them warm. 3. Maintain Proper Airflow Good airflow is key to preventing your heating system from freezing. Whether you have a furnace or a heat pump, dirty air filters can reduce airflow and cause your system to work harder than it should. Check your air filter every month and replace it if it’s dirty. A clean filter helps your system run efficiently and reduces the risk of freezing issues. 4. Keep Your Home Warm Enough We all want to save on heating bills, but setting your thermostat too low can increase the risk of your heating system freezing. Keep your home at a steady temperature, especially when it’s extremely cold outside. If you’re going out of town, set the thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent pipes and heating components from freezing while you’re away. 5. Schedule Regular Maintenance One of the best ways to prevent a frozen heating system is by keeping up with regular maintenance. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we offer professional heating tune-ups to make sure everything is in top shape before winter hits. Our licensed and insured technicians have extensive experience working with all brands, and as a premier Lennox dealer, we can ensure your system stays reliable all winter long. During a maintenance visit, we’ll check for any potential issues, clean key components, and ensure your system is ready to handle Evansville’s cold winters. What to Do if Your Heating System Freezes Up Even with the best precautions, your heating system may still freeze up during extreme cold. If that happens, here’s what you can do: Trust Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing to Keep Your Home Warm When it comes to keeping your heating system in top shape during the winter, you can count on Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing. As a family-owned and operated business since 1949, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch service with integrity and honesty. Whether you need a heating tune-up, repair, or replacement, our fully licensed and insured team is here for you. If you’re worried about a frozen heating system or just want peace of mind this winter, contact us today. Let’s make sure your home stays warm and comfortable all season long! By following these simple tips, you can help prevent your heating system from freezing up and avoid costly repairs. Stay warm, Evansville! And remember, if you ever need professional HVAC help, Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing is just a call away.

Why Is My Daikin Fit Not Heating?

December 24, 2024

If your Daikin Fit system isn’t heating like it should, I know how frustrating that can be. Especially during cold days, having reliable heat is essential for comfort and peace of mind. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we understand the importance of keeping your home cozy and comfortable. Our family-owned company, serving Evansville, IN, since 1949, has built a solid reputation by providing top-notch service to our customers. Let’s dive into some common reasons why your Daikin Fit may not be heating properly and how to address these issues. Common Reasons Your Daikin Fit Isn’t Heating There are a few main reasons your Daikin Fit might not be warming up your home. Let’s go through each one, so you can understand the possible issues and how to resolve them. 1. Thermostat Settings Need Adjusting It might sound simple, but the thermostat settings can sometimes be the issue. Ensure that your thermostat is set to “Heat” mode and that the temperature is set a few degrees higher than the current room temperature. If it’s set on “Auto” mode, it could be switching between heating and cooling. Setting it specifically to “Heat” will make sure it’s focused on warming your space. If your thermostat isn’t responding or the display seems dim, it might be time to replace the batteries. Dead batteries are a quick and easy fix, and often overlooked. 2. Clogged or Dirty Air Filters One of the most common causes of heating issues is a dirty or clogged air filter. If your filter is full of dust and debris, it can restrict airflow, causing the system to work harder and heat less effectively. Dirty filters not only lower heating efficiency but can also damage other parts of the system over time. To check, remove the filter and hold it up to a light source. If you can’t see much light through it, it’s time to replace it. Regular filter changes every few months can help keep your Daikin Fit running smoothly and heating effectively. 3. Blocked Outdoor Unit The Daikin Fit system relies on an outdoor unit to help with heating, even during winter. Leaves, dirt, or snow could block airflow, making it hard for the system to do its job. Check the outdoor unit to ensure it’s clear of any obstructions. Gently clear away any debris and keep the surrounding area free of clutter. In winter, make sure that snow and ice aren’t covering the unit. Sometimes, snow can accumulate on top of the unit, making it work harder than it should. 4. Refrigerant Levels Are Low The refrigerant level in your Daikin Fit system is crucial for heating. Low refrigerant can lead to issues with both heating and cooling. If you suspect a refrigerant problem, look out for these signs: reduced airflow, longer heating times, or strange noises from the unit. Unlike other DIY fixes, refrigerant issues require professional attention. Handling refrigerant improperly can be dangerous, so if you think this might be the issue, it’s best to give us a call. 5. Faulty or Broken Parts Your Daikin Fit system has several parts that could wear out over time, such as the compressor, fans, or sensors. When one of these components fails, the entire system may struggle to provide the heat you need. Listen for any unusual sounds, like rattling or squeaking, which could indicate a loose or faulty part. If you notice any strange noises or if the unit stops working altogether, it’s time to schedule a repair. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, our team can quickly identify and fix any broken parts, getting your heat back up and running as soon as possible. When to Call for Professional Daikin Fit Repair While some of these issues, like adjusting the thermostat or replacing a filter, can be tackled on your own, others require a professional touch. If your Daikin Fit is still not heating after trying the above solutions, it’s likely that there’s a more serious issue at play. Here are some situations when it’s best to call in a professional: Why Choose Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing? As a family-owned business since 1949, Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing has been committed to serving Evansville, IN, with integrity, honesty, and a focus on excellent service. Our team is highly trained and ready to assist you with any Daikin Fit repair needs. We know having a dependable heating system is very important, especially during a Midwest winter. Brackett is here to help keep your home warm and comfortable in every season. Get Your Daikin Fit Heating Again Today! If your Daikin Fit isn’t heating and you’ve tried the simple fixes without success, it’s time to call the professionals. At Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing, we’re experienced in troubleshooting and repairing Daikin systems. Don’t let a malfunctioning unit leave you in the cold—reach out to us today to get the warmth you deserve back in your home. Whether it’s a quick repair or a more complex issue, our team is ready to provide the service you can trust. Contact Brackett to schedule your Daikin Fit repair and let us help you stay comfortable all season long.

Heat Pump vs. Gas Furnace – Which is Right For You?

January 23, 2024

When it comes to keeping your Evansville, IN home warm and cozy during a chilly Midwestern winter, you have options to choose from. The goal is to have the greatest total comfort possible at a price you can afford. Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing is the leader for quality gas furnaces and heat pumps throughout the Evansville area. We pride ourselves on providing the products and services you need delivered and installed with integrity and professionalism. Two popular home heating choices are the heat pump and gas furnace. In this blog, Brackett will explain the differences between these two types of heating sources. The more information you have, the better you can make an informed choice that works for your needs and budget. What Is a Heat Pump? Some may describe a heat pump as a magical machine that can both heat and cool your home. It works by moving heat from one place to another. When it’s cold outside, the heat pump takes heat from the outside air and brings it inside to warm your home. In the summer, it does the opposite, taking heat from inside your home and moving it outside to keep you cool. What Is a Gas Furnace? A gas furnace is a heating system that uses natural or liquid propane (LP) gas to create heat. It burns the gas in a combustion chamber, and then a fan blows warm air through your home’s ductwork to keep you warm and toasty. These are very simple definitions of a heat pump and a gas furnace. For our purposes, this basic information is enough. Let’s compare the differences between these two options to see which one might be better for your home. 1. Efficiency: When it comes to efficiency, heat pumps may have a slight edge. On one hand, they can be more energy-efficient because they don’t create heat. Heat pumps simply move heat around from place to another. On the other hand, heat pumps run on electricity. If the cost for electrical power is expensive for you, heating your home during a cold winter could be quite expensive. Another issue with a heat pump is their inefficiency when temperatures fall below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Gas furnaces are very efficient but lose some energy in the combustion process. Natural gas tends to be very economical with LP gas being close behind in most areas. Which one you choose for efficiency can vary depending on your specific situation. Contact a Brackett Heating, Air & Plumbing Comfort Specialist today to learn more. 2. Installation: Installing a gas furnace can be a bit more complex and expensive. It requires gas lines, ventilation systems, and a chimney or flue. Heat pumps are generally easier to install because they don’t need these extra components. If you’re considering a new installation, a heat pump might be a more cost-effective choice. 3. Repairs and Maintenance: While heat pumps tend to require less overall maintenance than gas furnaces, every heating system benefits from regular annual maintenance. Inspecting and cleaning your heat pump or gas furnace on a regular basis ensures it’s always re Invest in a Brackett Comfort Club Maintenance Agreement, and you’ll never have to worry about the condition of your heat pump or gas furnace. We offer a precision tune-up and cleaning, a no breakdown guarantee, and more! 4. Replacement: What you choose to replace an old heating system, often depends on what you currently have. If you have a gas furnace, replacing it with another gas furnace is probably the most cost-effective solution. However, if you’re switching from another type of heating system, a heat pump could be a good choice. 5. Environmental Impact: Gas furnaces release a certain amount of carbon emissions. Heat pumps, on the other hand, produce no emissions during operation. If reducing your carbon footprint is important to you, a heat pump is the more environmentally friendly option. 6. Cost: The initial cost of a gas furnace installation is generally a little higher than installing a heat pump. Since they operate efficiently regardless of the temperature outside, gas furnaces may provide a greater return on investment in the long run. The upfront cost to install a heat pump is typically lower, but in our climate with cold winter temperatures, you may end up paying more operating costs. 7. Climate Considerations: The climate where you live can influence your decision. Heat pumps are excellent in moderate climates where winters aren’t extremely cold. They may struggle in very cold regions, so a gas furnace might be a better choice in those areas. An exception to consider, is the benefit of choosing a cold-weather heat pump, which takes the inability to operate in colder temperatures off the table. Some homes may opt to have a dual-fuel system. A heat pump is used until temperatures fall below the temperature threshold of the unit. At that point, the gas furnace would come on to heat the house in its place. 8. Noise Level: Heat pumps tend to be quieter than gas furnaces because they don’t have a combustion process. If you want a quieter heating system, a heat pump might be the way to go. 9. Versatility Since heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, they score big on versatility. A detractor to their frequent use is the lifespan tends to be shorter than that of a furnace. Even with regular maintenance, the average heat pump lasts about 12 to 15 years vs. 15 to 20 years for a furnace. Heat Pump vs. Gas Furnace- Which is better for your home? Now that we’ve compared these two heating systems, which one is better for your home? Unfortunately, there is no black and white answer. The choice depends on your specific situation and preferences. Ultimately, the best choice for your home will depend on your budget, your location, and your personal priorities. Consult with a Professional It’s always a good idea to consult with a heating and cooling professional when deciding which system

The Joy of Giving

January 30, 2019

As some of you in the Tristate have seen we ran a giveaway during December to donate a new Heating and Cooling System to someone in need. After receiving over 75 nominations we printed them out and read all of the stories. Many of the applicants were very deserving but we had to narrow it down to just one. We contacted 5 families and did an in home assessment of their equipment and met with them to hear their needs. One of the families stuck out to me. He had no heat and was keeping the house from freezing by turning on the oven with the door open and using oil space heaters in the room. Even though he had no heat, when I left, he told me that he was thankful for what we were doing and that he knew that there were a lot of needy people and to give it to the family that needed it the most. As I was lying in bed that evening that comment kept playing over and over in my head. When I came in the next day I shared that comment with our team and they agreed that the Wozniak Family was our pick. They had been nominated by their Daughter to receive the free system because they were raising 5 of their grandchildren in a home that hasn’t had heat since last March. The installation posed many obstacles with the house being built in the late 1800’s. They had been renting the house for 11 years before purchasing the house on contract the year before. When they moved to the house, the entire basement was filled with the past renters belongings and trash that they did not take with them when they moved out. When informing them that they had won the system, I talked to Teddy about cleaning out the basement so that we would have room to work. He agreed, but after leaving I didn’t really know if that was going to be a possibility unless he had help. So we contacted Advanced Disposal the next day and asked if they would be interested in partnering with us to help the Wozniak Family out. Joey Scott replied to my email over the weekend and was very excited to help us out on the project. He went to the house to see where the dumpster could be placed and came to the conclusion that a 6 yard dumpster was the largest that could fit on the property. I contacted Theodore and let him know the plan. We arrived at the house the day prior to installation and removed 3 ½ dumpsters of debris out of the basement. We removed the old ceiling from the basement and all of the return ductwork that was loaded with dirt. Only half of the supply ductwork was useable and many of the supply runs had to be replaced with insulated ductwork. The Crawlspace was cleaned and a vapor barrier was installed to keep moisture and odors from the living space. Insulation Board was cut to fit all of the single pane windows in the basement to prevent cold air from entering the home. Water lines were insulated with armoflex insulation to prevent sweating. The entire basement was cleaned and vacuumed out to give all of the children a place that they could feel safe walking into in case of a storm. Lennox had provided a High Efficient Gas Furnace and Air Conditioner to keep them comfortable all year long. After finishing the job that Friday evening, I could tell that the family was so excited and appreciative. There is truly no amount of money that can buy the feeling you get back when you help out someone in need. All the hard work was worth it. Thank you Tristate for the help in finding a Family to help out this Holiday Season. Thank you Lennox for providing the Equipment. Thank you Advanced Disposal for the dumpster so we could clean out the basement. Congratulations to the Wozniak Family, I hope you love your new system. Thanks, Bryce BrackettGeneral ManagerBrackett Heating and Air Conditioning

Brackett Gives Away Furnace to Family In Need

February 9, 2018

Brackett Heating and Air has been keeping the people of the Tri-State comfortable for over 60 years. We love being a part of this community, and that’s why we decided to give away a free furnace to a family in need this past January. We asked the community to send us nominations of a family that was in need of a new furnace this winter. We got hundreds of nominations during the nomination period, and it was clear that we have a very generous community here in Evansville. There were many deserving nominees, but as we looked through the choices, one stood out. We had an overwhelming amount of nominations for Geneva Hicks-Barker. Geneva faced a terrible tragedy over the winter. She lost two grandchildren and her son when a car involved in a police chase crashed into their car. Many friends and community members nominated her, knowing that she had been dealing with furnace problems for some time and wasn’t able to take care of it because of her family tragedy. Her furnace was over 50 years old, and had completely stopped working at the beginning of winter. When our technicians went to Geneva’s house to find a temporary fix before the new unit could be installed, the temperature was in the 40s. But we teamed up with Lennox to install a brand new furnace/coil, air conditioner, thermostat, and air cleaner in Geneva’s house to keep her comfortable all year round. The unit is high efficiency, so it will save the family money on energy bills every month. The family has never had air conditioning in the house, so the new system will be able to help Geneva and her family in every season. “I really feel blessed, I really do. It just lets you know the kind of community you’re in,” she told 14 News when she learned she was the giveaway winner. Bryce Brackett, our General Manager here at Brackett Heating and Air, said when asked about the giveaway, “We just wanted to help out a family.” All of our team at Brackett Heating and Air is proud to have been able to play a part in making life easier and more comfortable for a deserving family.

Your Evansville Home Needs a Heating System That’s Easy to Use

November 1, 2014

Does your Evansville home have a heating system that you love? Some heating systems are so complicated that you’ll feel like you need to break out the manual every time you want to raise or lower the temperature a few degrees. That’s not something you have to live with! Your heating system should be easy to use so you can keep your home comfortable all the time. If you’ve been struggling with a system that’s way too complicated, it’s time to call Brackett Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ll come and install a system that’s perfect for you and your home. Our Evansville heating team will make sure you have the most efficient heating system in your home, too, so you can save money on your monthly energy bills. Plus, we’ll install a thermostat that allows you to easily regulate the temperature of your home. Our team will show you how to use the system, and we’ll make sure you understand every button before we leave. You’ll be able to operate your system with confidence! If you are ready for a heating system that’s easy to use, helps lower your monthly energy bills, and gives you peace of mind (and no frustration!), give us a call. We’re ready to come out to your home and get to work! You’ll love the system that we install for you, and if you ever have any questions about your new system, we’ll be there to get you the answers you need. Call us or use the form on our website to get in touch with us today!

Our Evansville Heating Team Can Help You Save Money on Your Monthly Bills

October 16, 2014

If you are worried about turning on your heating system now that the temperatures are cooling down because you know its going to make your monthly bills go way up, it’s time to call our Evansville heating team. Our crew can help you discover more energy efficient solutions to heat your home and save you money on your monthly bills. We won’t just be saving you a couple dollars here and there, either. Some of our customers have seen savings of up to 25% on their monthly bills! We’ll use tools developed by Lennox to help you discover the best system for heating your home efficiently, using the least amount of energy possible. You can see how quickly the savings from these energy efficient heating solutions can add up when you use our energy savings calculator on our website. If you like what you see, give us a call. We can give you a free estimate on how much the installation will cost you, and how much you’ll save on your monthly bill. Those monthly savings can do to paying off your new system in no time–and after that, those savings go right back into your pocket. While we may have a few more weeks of great autumn weather ahead of us, snow could be headed our way any day. You’ll want to make sure you keep your home and your family warm without draining your bank account. Call us now to get your new system installed before cold weather hits! Make an appointment with us by calling or using the contact form on our website.

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