Hidden plumbing leaks can quietly cause major damage to your home. Unlike a burst pipe that floods the floor, slow and concealed leaks often happen out of sight, inside walls, under floors, or beneath your yard. Left unchecked, they can rot wood, weaken drywall, grow dangerous mold, and drive up your water bill.

For homeowners in Greenville, Greer, and across the Upstate, catching a leak early means avoiding expensive repairs and protecting your family’s health. At Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air, we’ve seen how something as small as a pinhole in a pipe can snowball into thousands of dollars in damage.

Here’s how you can spot the signs before it’s too late.

Sign #1: Unexpectedly High Water Bills

If your water bill suddenly jumps without any change in your usage habits, a hidden leak might be to blame.

What to look for:

• Compare your current bill to the same month last year.
• Even small leaks can waste hundreds of gallons each month.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that seasonal changes (like watering your lawn in summer) can affect your bill, but if the increase doesn’t make sense, investigate further.

Sign #2: Water Meter Changes When No Water Is Running

Your water meter can be your best leak detector.

The simple test:

1. Turn off all water inside and outside your home (no faucets, appliances, or irrigation running).
2. Locate your water meter (often near the street or sidewalk).
3. Watch the dial or digital reading. If it moves within a few minutes, you likely have a leak.

For slower leaks, leave the water off for two hours and check again, if the reading changes, you’ve got a hidden issue.

Sign #3: Musty or Damp Smells

That faint musty smell you notice in the bathroom, basement, or behind a cabinet? It could be more than humidity, it may be a sign of a hidden leak.

Why it happens:
Water trapped inside walls or under floors creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew. These microorganisms give off a distinct, earthy odor that doesn’t go away with cleaning.

Warning: Mold growth can cause respiratory issues, especially for those with allergies or asthma.

Sign #4: Stains, Bubbling Paint, or Warped Flooring

Water damage often shows itself through changes in your home’s surfaces.

Watch for:

• Yellow or brown stains on ceilings or walls
• Bubbling or peeling paint
• Soft, spongy, or warped flooring
• Cracked or loose tiles in bathrooms or kitchens

If you see any of these changes, especially if they appear suddenly, there’s likely a leak nearby.

Sign #5: Low Water Pressure in Specific Fixtures

A drop in water pressure from one faucet or showerhead could be caused by a clog, but if it happens in multiple fixtures or just in one area of the home, a hidden leak in the supply line may be restricting flow.

Tip: Compare water pressure in different rooms. If the issue is isolated to one area, it’s worth having a plumber inspect that section of piping.

Sign #6: Mold or Mildew Growth in Unusual Places

It’s normal to see a little mildew in the shower, but finding mold in dry areas, like a closet, hallway, or under a window, is a red flag.

Why it matters:
Hidden leaks feed mold colonies that spread quickly. Not only can mold damage your home’s structure, but it can also harm indoor air quality.

If you spot mold in unexpected spots, it’s time to investigate what’s feeding it.

DIY Leak Detection Tips

While some leaks require professional tools to locate, you can try these simple checks before calling in help:

• Food coloring toilet test: Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. Wait 15–30 minutes without flushing. If color appears in the bowl, your toilet is leaking.
• Listen for drips: At night when the house is quiet, walk through and listen near walls, floors, and under sinks.
• Check your crawl space or basement: Look for damp insulation, puddles, or discoloration on joists.
• Inspect under sinks and appliances: Run your hand along pipes for moisture and look for signs of corrosion.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If you suspect a hidden leak but can’t find the source, a licensed plumber has the tools and training to pinpoint the problem without tearing apart your home. At Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air, we use:

• Acoustic leak detection equipment to “hear” leaks through walls and floors
• Thermal imaging cameras to spot temperature differences caused by moisture
• Moisture meters to detect dampness behind drywall or under flooring

Why act fast:

• Reduces water waste (and bills)
• Prevents costly structural damage
• Stops mold growth before it spreads

Whether it’s a slab leak under your foundation or a slow drip inside a wall, early detection is the key to saving money and avoiding headaches.

Protect Your Home Before It’s Too Late

Hidden leaks are sneaky, but they’re not unstoppable. By staying alert to changes in your home, from higher water bills to musty smells, you can catch problems early.

If you think you might have a hidden plumbing leak, don’t wait until the damage is visible. Call Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air today. Our team proudly serves Greenville, Greer, and the surrounding Upstate with fast, accurate leak detection and repair. We’ll find the source, fix it right, and help you protect your biggest investment, your home.

📞 Call us now or schedule online to stop a leak before it becomes a flood.

 

Your HVAC system is the unsung hero of home comfort—keeping you warm through chilly Greenville winters and cool through humid Upstate summers. But like any hardworking appliance, it won’t last forever.

The big question many homeowners face is: Should I repair my HVAC system or replace it entirely? The right answer depends on several factors, from age and repair history to energy costs and comfort levels.

At Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping Greenville and Greer homeowners make this decision for decades. Here’s our guide to knowing when a repair makes sense—and when replacement is the smarter move.

Signs Your HVAC May Just Need Repairs

Sometimes, your system just needs a little TLC from a qualified technician. Here are scenarios where repair might be all you need:

1. Minor Performance Issues

If your system is still relatively young and you’ve noticed minor issues—like a clogged filter, dirty coils, or a faulty thermostat—these are often quick, affordable fixes.

2. System is Less Than 10 Years Old

Modern HVAC systems are built to last about 15–20 years with proper maintenance. If yours is under 10 years old and has been reliable up to this point, a repair is usually the better investment.

3. Isolated Component Failure

Sometimes, a single part fails without affecting the rest of the system. For example:

• A blown capacitor.
• A worn-out blower motor.
• A refrigerant leak that can be repaired and recharged.

If the repair is minor and your system is otherwise in good shape, replacement can wait.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your HVAC System

While repairs can extend your system’s life, there comes a point when replacing it makes more sense—both financially and for your comfort.

1. Your System is 15+ Years Old

Most HVAC systems start losing efficiency and reliability after 15 years, even with regular maintenance. If yours is nearing this age, replacement is often the safer bet to avoid costly emergency breakdowns.

2. Frequent Breakdowns

If you’ve called for HVAC repairs multiple times in the past two years, your system may be on its last legs. Those repair costs can quickly add up—and they don’t guarantee another part won’t fail soon.

3. Rising Energy Bills

Older HVAC units tend to lose efficiency over time, forcing them to work harder and use more energy to maintain comfortable temperatures. If your energy bills are creeping up despite no change in usage, your system could be the culprit.

4. Uneven Heating or Cooling

Hot and cold spots in your home may signal that your system can’t keep up anymore. While duct issues can sometimes be the cause, aging systems often struggle to maintain even comfort.

5. Outdated Refrigerant (R-22 Phaseout)

If your system uses R-22 refrigerant, repairs will become increasingly expensive and impractical. Since production of R-22 has been phased out, replacement is usually the most cost-effective option.

Cost Comparison: Repair vs. Replace

One simple rule of thumb:
If a repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new system, replacement is usually the smarter investment—especially for systems more than 10 years old.

Example:

• Estimated repair: $3,000
• Cost of new, high-efficiency system: $6,000–$8,000

In this case, the repair is close enough in price to a replacement that upgrading makes better financial sense.

When comparing costs, don’t just look at the immediate repair bill. Consider:

• Energy savings with a high-efficiency system.
• Reduced maintenance costs over the next decade.
• Increased comfort and quieter operation.

Energy Efficiency & Comfort Benefits of Replacement

Upgrading to a modern HVAC system isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns—it’s about improving your home’s comfort and efficiency.

Benefits include:

• Lower energy bills: Newer systems meet higher efficiency standards, using less power to heat and cool your home.
• Improved air quality: Advanced filtration and humidity control help keep your air cleaner and healthier.
• Smart thermostat compatibility: Seamless integration for better control and energy savings.
• Quieter operation: Newer units run more quietly, so your comfort doesn’t come with extra noise.

In many cases, these benefits start paying off from day one—especially during Greenville’s hot, humid summers or those unexpected winter cold snaps.

Chisholm’s Process: Honest Advice, Expert Service

At Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we know that replacing an HVAC system is a big decision. That’s why we take the time to walk you through your options with no pushy sales tactics.

Our process includes:

1. Comprehensive inspection: We evaluate your system’s age, condition, and efficiency.
2. Clear recommendations: You’ll know exactly whether a repair or replacement is the most cost-effective choice.
3. Customized solutions: We match you with the right system for your home size, comfort preferences, and budget.
4. Professional installation: Our licensed technicians ensure everything is installed to code for peak performance.
5. Ongoing maintenance: We help you protect your investment and keep your new system running like new.

We’ve been serving Greenville, Greer, and the surrounding Upstate for over 50 years combined, earning trust through honesty, technical skill, and customer-first service.

Conclusion: Don’t Wait for a Total Breakdown

If your HVAC system is acting up, the decision to repair or replace shouldn’t be left until you’re sweating in July or shivering in January. By weighing your system’s age, repair history, energy costs, and comfort level now, you can make a smart choice that saves you money and stress in the long run.

Whether you need a quick repair or a full replacement, Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is here to keep your home comfortable year-round.

📞 Call us today or schedule your appointment online for expert HVAC repair and replacement in Greenville, Greer, and across the Upstate.

 

Few plumbing problems strike fear in a homeowner’s heart like a sewer backup. It’s messy, smelly, and can quickly turn into a costly disaster. Beyond the damage to floors, walls, and belongings, sewage water carries bacteria and contaminants that make cleanup a serious health hazard.

Here in Greenville, Greer, and the rest of Upstate South Carolina, sewer backups are more common than many people realize. Older neighborhoods with aging pipes, tree-lined streets, and periods of heavy rainfall create the perfect recipe for a messy surprise.

The good news? Most backups are preventable with the right care and awareness. Let’s look at what causes them, and what you can do to protect your home.

How Sewer Systems Work in a Home

Every drain in your home, from the kitchen sink to the shower to the toilet, connects to your home’s main sewer line. This underground pipe carries wastewater away from your house and into the municipal sewer system (or to a septic tank if you’re not connected to city sewer).

When everything’s working properly, you hardly notice this process. But if the main sewer line becomes blocked or damaged, wastewater has nowhere to go, and that’s when it can start flowing back into your sinks, tubs, and toilets.

Top Causes of Sewer Backups

1. Tree Root Intrusion

In older neighborhoods around Greenville and Greer, mature trees often have extensive root systems. These roots naturally seek out moisture, and even the smallest crack in a sewer pipe can invite them in. Once inside, roots can grow rapidly, causing blockages or even breaking the pipe apart.

2. Clogs from Grease, Wipes, and Other Debris

Your sewer line is only designed to carry water, human waste, and toilet paper. Anything else is a clog risk. Common offenders include:

• Cooking grease and oil (which solidify in pipes)
• “Flushable” wipes (which don’t break down like toilet paper)
• Feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and dental floss

Over time, these items can build up and completely block the line.

3. Collapsed or Broken Pipes

Many older homes in Upstate SC still have clay or cast iron sewer lines. These materials can deteriorate over decades, leading to cracks, collapses, and misaligned joints. Even PVC pipes can be damaged by shifting soil or construction work.

4. Heavy Rain and Flooding

After a stretch of intense rain, something we get plenty of in the summer, the municipal sewer system can become overwhelmed. When that happens, water can back up into connected homes, especially if the property’s sewer lateral is already partially blocked.

5. City Sewer Problems

Sometimes the issue isn’t on your property at all. If the city’s main sewer line has a blockage or break, backups can occur in nearby homes. In these cases, the city is usually responsible for repairs, but you still have to deal with the mess.

Warning Signs of a Developing Backup

Most sewer backups don’t happen out of nowhere, your plumbing often sends warning signs first. Keep an eye out for:

• Gurgling drains when you run water or flush a toilet.
• Multiple slow drains throughout the house.
• Foul odors coming from sinks, tubs, or floor drains.
• Water backing up in a lower-level fixture when another is in use (e.g., flushing a toilet causes water to rise in the shower).

Catching these signs early can save you from a full-blown backup.

What to Do if You Have a Sewer Backup

If you discover sewage coming up into your home:

1. Stop using all water immediately, this prevents more wastewater from entering the system.
2. Keep people and pets away from the affected area to avoid exposure to bacteria.
3. Shut off the electricity to affected rooms if water levels are high.
4. Call a professional plumber right away, sewer backups are not a DIY job.

At Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we have specialized equipment to locate the blockage, clear it safely, and prevent further damage.

How to Prevent Sewer Backups

Prevention is always better than dealing with a messy cleanup. Here’s how to reduce your risk:

1. Schedule Regular Drain Cleaning

Annual or semi-annual drain cleaning helps remove buildup before it becomes a major clog. We use camera inspections to check the health of your main line.

2. Manage Tree Roots

If you have large trees near your sewer line, regular inspections are essential. In some cases, we can use root-killing treatments to stop growth before it causes damage.

3. Watch What You Flush and Pour

Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Pour grease into a container and throw it in the trash instead of down the drain.

4. Install a Backwater Valve

This device allows wastewater to flow out but blocks it from coming back in during a city sewer overflow.

5. Get Professional Inspections

If your home is older, or you’ve experienced backups before, a professional inspection can catch small problems early, saving you from a costly emergency later.

Call Us!

Sewer backups are messy, costly, and dangerous, but in many cases, they’re preventable. By understanding the common causes, recognizing early warning signs, and scheduling regular inspections, you can protect your home from disaster.

If you live in Greenville, Greer, or anywhere in the Upstate and suspect a problem with your sewer line, don’t wait for it to get worse.

Call Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today for expert sewer and drain service, backed by over 50 years of combined experience and a commitment to protecting your home.

 

Winter in Greenville, Greer, and the surrounding Upstate South Carolina area can be unpredictable. Some years, we enjoy mild, crisp mornings. Other years, a sudden cold snap can drop temperatures into the 20s seemingly overnight. When that happens, the last thing you want is to discover your furnace isn’t working.

Preparing your furnace before winter hits isn’t just about staying warm, it’s about avoiding costly repairs, improving energy efficiency, and making sure your family is safe and comfortable. With over 50 years of combined HVAC experience, Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air knows the difference a little preventive care can make.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting your furnace winter-ready.

Step 1: Change or Clean Your Furnace Filter

Your furnace filter is your first line of defense against dust, dirt, and allergens. Over time, filters get clogged, forcing your furnace to work harder to push warm air through your home. This increases energy usage and shortens the life of your system.

Why it matters:

• Improves airflow
• Reduces strain on your furnace motor
• Keeps indoor air cleaner

How to do it:

1. Turn off your furnace.
2. Locate the filter (usually near the return air duct or blower compartment).
3. If it’s disposable, replace it with one of the same size.
4. If it’s reusable, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning.

Pro Tip: During the peak heating season, check your filter monthly. In many Upstate homes, replacing it every 1–3 months is best.

Step 2: Inspect and Clean Vents & Ducts

Blocked or dirty vents can make your furnace less effective and unevenly heat your home. Over time, dust, pet hair, and even small objects can accumulate in registers and ductwork.

DIY maintenance:

• Walk through your home and make sure all vents are open and free of obstructions like furniture or rugs.
• Vacuum dust from registers using a hose attachment.

When to call a pro:
If you notice excessive dust, visible mold, or pest droppings inside your ducts, it’s time for a professional cleaning. This not only improves air quality but also helps your furnace operate more efficiently.

Step 3: Test the Thermostat

Your thermostat is the “control center” for your furnace. If it’s not working properly, your furnace won’t heat your home effectively.

Quick test:

• Set your thermostat to “heat” mode.
• Increase the temperature 3–5 degrees above your current room temperature.
• Wait to see if the furnace kicks on promptly.

If you experience a delay, fluctuating temperatures, or no response, you may need new batteries, recalibration, or even a thermostat replacement.

Pro Tip: Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat can help you save on energy costs, especially during unpredictable Upstate winters.

Step 4: Listen for Unusual Noises

A healthy furnace typically makes a low, consistent hum when running. If you start hearing rattles, bangs, squeals, or grinding noises, it could be a sign of worn parts, loose components, or airflow problems.

Common sounds and possible causes:

• Banging or popping: Dirty burners or expanding ducts
• Squealing: Worn blower belt or motor bearings
• Rattling: Loose panels or screws

Don’t ignore unusual noises, they’re your furnace’s way of asking for help before a breakdown.

Step 5: Schedule a Professional Furnace Tune-Up

Even if your furnace seems to be running fine, an annual tune-up can catch small issues before they turn into major problems. At Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air, our tune-up service includes:

• Checking and tightening electrical connections
• Cleaning internal components
• Inspecting heat exchangers for cracks (important for preventing carbon monoxide leaks)
• Testing safety controls and thermostat calibration
• Lubricating moving parts

Why it matters:

• Increases system efficiency
• Reduces the risk of mid-winter breakdowns
• Extends the lifespan of your furnace

For Greenville and Greer homeowners, we recommend scheduling your tune-up in early fall so you’re ready before the first cold front.

Bonus Tip: Seal Drafts Around Your Home

Even the best furnace can’t keep your home comfortable if warm air is leaking out and cold air is sneaking in. Before winter hits:

• Check windows and doors for gaps and apply weatherstripping or caulk where needed.
• Inspect attic insulation to make sure it meets recommended levels.
• Close fireplace dampers when not in use.

Sealing drafts helps your furnace run less often, saving you money and keeping your home evenly warm.

When to Call Chisholm for Furnace Service

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call in the pros:

• Furnace struggles to heat your home evenly
• Heating bills suddenly spike without increased usage
• You smell gas or notice signs of carbon monoxide (like headaches or dizziness)
• Your furnace is over 15 years old and showing signs of wear

At Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air, we’re proud to serve homeowners across Greenville, Greer, and the Upstate with honest advice, expert repairs, and thorough maintenance. Our technicians treat your home like it’s their own, arriving on time, respecting your space, and making sure you’re comfortable before we leave.

Be Ready Before the First Freeze

Winter can creep up fast in the Upstate, and furnace problems have a way of showing up at the worst possible time. By taking a few hours now to prepare, and scheduling a professional inspection, you’ll ensure a warm, worry-free season.

If your furnace needs a tune-up, repair, or replacement, call Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air today at [phone number] or schedule your service online. We’re here to keep Greenville, Greer, and the surrounding areas warm, safe, and comfortable all winter long.

Few things ruin a morning faster than stepping into the shower, expecting a warm stream of water, and instead getting a blast of ice-cold reality. Your water heater works quietly in the background every day, but like any appliance, it won’t last forever.

Sometimes, the signs of a failing water heater are obvious, other times, they’re subtle until a breakdown catches you off guard. Recognizing the warning signs early can save you from inconvenient, costly emergencies.

At Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping homeowners across Greenville, Greer, and the Upstate keep their hot water flowing for decades. Here’s how to tell if it’s time to replace your water heater before it leaves you high and dry.

1. Age of Your Water Heater

A water heater’s lifespan depends on the type and how well it’s maintained.

• Tank water heaters typically last 8–12 years.
• Tankless water heaters can run for 15–20 years with proper care.

If your unit is older than these averages, it’s living on borrowed time. Over the years, sediment buildup, corrosion, and general wear and tear cause your heater to work harder and less efficiently.

Pro Tip: You can usually find the manufacturing date on the serial number label. If it’s pushing double digits, it’s worth planning a replacement, before a leak or breakdown forces your hand.

2. Rusty or Discolored Water

If you turn on the hot water and notice a brown, reddish, or yellow tint, it’s a sign that something’s wrong. Rusty water usually means:

• The inside of your tank is corroding.
• Your water lines or plumbing may also have rust.

While a professional plumber can help determine the exact cause, corrosion inside the tank is a one-way ticket to leaks and water damage. Once rust has eaten through the metal, there’s no reliable repair, it’s time for a new water heater.

3. Strange Noises from the Tank

A healthy water heater runs quietly. If yours has started making rumbling, banging, or popping sounds, that’s a red flag.

These noises often come from sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Over time, minerals in your water settle and harden, forcing your heater to work harder to heat the water. The result:

• Reduced efficiency.
• Longer heating times.
• Extra wear and tear on the tank.

Once sediment buildup reaches a certain point, flushing the tank may not solve the problem, and replacing the unit becomes the smarter move.

4. Frequent Repairs

If you’ve had to call a plumber for water heater repairs more than once in the past year, it’s worth asking if you’re throwing good money after bad.

As parts start to fail, repairs can become more frequent, and more expensive. When the cost of fixing your current unit approaches 50% of the price of a new one, it’s usually more cost-effective to replace it.

Example:

• New heating element: $250–$500
• Anode rod replacement: $200–$300
• Pressure relief valve: $150–$250

Add those up, and you’re already halfway to the cost of a brand-new, energy-efficient unit.

5. Inconsistent Water Temperature

One day it’s too hot, the next it’s lukewarm, and sometimes it runs cold halfway through a shower. These fluctuations often point to:

• Failing heating elements.
• Thermostat problems.
• Sediment insulating the water from the heat source.

While certain parts can be replaced, temperature swings in an older unit often indicate it’s nearing the end of its life.

6. Water Around the Base

If you see pooling water around your water heater, it’s a sign of a leak. Even small leaks can quickly worsen, leading to significant water damage and mold growth.

Sometimes leaks come from loose connections or valves that can be fixed. But if water is seeping directly from the tank itself, the inner lining is likely cracked from years of expansion and contraction, meaning replacement is the only option.

Why Timely Replacement Matters

Putting off a water heater replacement might save you money in the short term, but it often leads to:

• Emergency breakdowns at the worst possible time.
• Costly water damage to floors, walls, and belongings.
• Higher monthly utility bills from inefficient heating.

A modern water heater isn’t just a replacement, it’s an upgrade. Today’s models are more energy-efficient, heat water faster, and can even integrate with smart home systems.

Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning – Your Local Experts

At Chisholm, we don’t just swap out your old water heater and call it a day. Our process ensures you get the right solution for your home:

1. Assessment: We evaluate your current unit, water usage, and budget.
2. Recommendation: We explain your options, whether that’s a traditional tank or a high-efficiency tankless model.
3. Installation: Our licensed pros handle everything, from removal to clean-up, so you’re never left with a mess.
4. Follow-Up: We provide guidance on maintenance to maximize your new water heater’s life.

With over 50 years of combined experience serving Greenville, Greer, and the surrounding Upstate, we’ve built our reputation on honesty, quality work, and doing right by our customers.

Final Thoughts

Your water heater might not be the flashiest appliance in your home, but it plays a crucial role in your daily comfort. By watching for these signs and acting quickly, you can avoid sudden breakdowns, reduce repair costs, and enjoy reliable hot water for years to come.

If you’re noticing any of these warning signs, or just want peace of mind, call Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning today. We’ll help you determine the best replacement option so you can get back to warm, worry-free showers.

📞 Call us today or schedule your appointment online to keep your home’s hot water flowing strong.

If you live in Greenville, Greer, or anywhere in Upstate South Carolina, you know our summers aren’t just hot, they’re sticky. That mix of heat and humidity can make your home feel like a sauna if your air conditioning isn’t set just right.

But here’s the tricky part: the colder you set your thermostat, the more your energy bill climbs. So, how do you find the sweet spot between staying cool and keeping your utility costs in check?

Let’s break down the best temperature for air conditioning in our area, along with practical tips to help you stay comfortable without breaking the bank.

The Recommended AC Temperature

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the magic number for summer comfort and efficiency is 78°F, at least when you’re home and awake.

Why 78°F? It’s warm enough to reduce the strain on your AC system but cool enough to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. When your thermostat is set too low (say, 70°F or below), your AC runs almost constantly, which:

• Increases energy costs.
• Adds unnecessary wear and tear on the system.
• Can lead to uneven cooling and higher humidity inside.

Here in Greenville, with summer highs often in the 90s and high humidity levels, 78°F might sound a little warm at first. But paired with good airflow and proper dehumidification, it can feel surprisingly comfortable, and it saves money.

Adjusting for Your Comfort & Lifestyle

While 78°F is a great starting point, comfort is personal. Your ideal setting may vary depending on your daily routine and household needs.

During the Day (When You’re Home)

• Start at 78°F and see how it feels.
• Use ceiling fans to circulate cool air, which can make the space feel up to 4°F cooler without lowering the thermostat.

At Night

• Many people prefer cooler sleeping temperatures. Lowering the thermostat by 2–4 degrees at night can help, especially if you sleep better in a cooler room.
• Try 74–76°F for sleeping comfort without excessive energy use.

When You’re Away

• Bump your thermostat up to 85°F to reduce cooling costs.
• If you have pets, avoid going too high, 80–82°F is usually safe for most animals.

Special Considerations

• Seniors, young children, or those with medical conditions may require slightly cooler indoor temperatures for comfort and safety.
• Households with multiple people may need to find a compromise, or make use of zoned cooling if available.

Humidity & Its Role in Comfort

Here in the Upstate, humidity is just as big a factor as heat. Even at 78°F, high humidity can make the air feel warmer and more uncomfortable.

Your AC does more than cool the air, it also removes moisture. However, if your system isn’t working efficiently, you may notice:

• That clammy feeling indoors.
• Condensation on windows.
• A musty odor from excess indoor moisture.

Keeping humidity in the ideal range (between 30%–50%) can make your home feel more comfortable at higher temperatures. If your AC isn’t keeping humidity in check, you may need a maintenance visit from Chisholm to check for refrigerant issues, clogged coils, or airflow problems.

Tips to Stay Comfortable Without Lowering the Temp Too Much

Lowering the thermostat isn’t the only way to cool off. Here are a few ways to enhance comfort without driving up your power bill:

1. Use Ceiling and Portable Fans
   • Fans create a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler without actually lowering the air temperature.
2. Close Blinds and Curtains During Peak Sun
   • Blocking sunlight during the hottest part of the day can keep your home cooler naturally.
3. Seal Leaks and Add Insulation
   • Keep cool air inside by sealing gaps around windows, doors, and ductwork.
4. Schedule Regular AC Maintenance
   • A well-tuned system runs more efficiently and keeps humidity under control.
5. Cook and Wash Strategically
   • Use ovens, dryers, and dishwashers during cooler hours to avoid adding heat indoors.

Smart Thermostats & Energy Savings

If you want the best of both comfort and efficiency, a smart thermostat is worth considering.

These devices let you:

• Program temperature changes automatically.
• Control settings remotely from your phone.
• Learn your habits and adjust temperatures accordingly.

For example, a smart thermostat can keep your home at 85°F while you’re away during the day and start cooling it back down to 78°F before you get home, all without you touching a button.

Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning can install and set up a smart thermostat that works seamlessly with your AC system, helping you save on your monthly bill without sacrificing comfort.

When to Call an HVAC Professional

If your AC is struggling to keep your home comfortable at a reasonable setting, it’s time to call in the experts.

Signs your system might need attention:

• AC runs constantly but never reaches the set temperature.
• Indoor humidity feels high even when the AC is on.
• Uneven cooling between rooms.
• Unusual noises or weak airflow from vents.

These issues could mean your system needs a tune-up, refrigerant recharge, or even an upgrade to a more efficient unit. Chisholm’s technicians have over 50 years of combined experience serving the Greenville and Greer areas, so we can diagnose and fix the problem quickly.

Bottomline

The best temperature for air conditioning in summer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but 78°F is a great starting point for balancing comfort and savings. Adjust as needed for sleeping, special health needs, and time away from home, and remember that controlling humidity is just as important as lowering the thermostat.

If your AC isn’t keeping you comfortable at a reasonable setting, or you want to upgrade to a smart thermostat for better control, Chisholm Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help.

Stay cool this summer, call Chisholm today at [your phone number] or schedule your service online.