Summer in Gaston County means long days, backyard barbecues, and — unfortunately — higher energy bills. At Native Air, we know how important it is to stay comfortable without draining your wallet. That’s why we’ve put together this list of practical, cost-saving tips to help you lower your energy bills while keeping your home cool all summer long. 1. Schedule a Professional AC Tune-Up One of the best ways to keep your energy bills in check is by ensuring your air conditioning system is running at peak efficiency. A professional tune-up from Native Air can identify small issues before they turn into big problems, optimize airflow, and improve overall performance. Regular maintenance can reduce energy usage by up to 15%! 2. Change Your Air Filters Regularly Dirty or clogged filters restrict airflow, making your HVAC system work harder — and use more energy. We recommend checking your filters every 30–60 days, especially during the summer when your AC runs more frequently. Clean filters not only improve efficiency but also enhance indoor air quality. 3. Use a Smart Thermostat A programmable or smart thermostat allows you to set schedules that align with your daily routine. Raise the temperature a few degrees when you’re not home or asleep, and let the thermostat automatically adjust. Native Air can help install and set up the right thermostat for your home in Lowell or anywhere in Gaston County. 4. Seal Leaky Ductwork and Gaps Leaks in your ductwork or gaps around windows and doors can let cool air escape — and hot air in. Native Air offers duct inspections and sealing services to help keep your conditioned air right where it belongs. Proper sealing can significantly reduce your cooling costs over time. 5. Close Curtains During Peak Sun Hours Sunlight streaming through your windows may look pretty, but it also heats up your home quickly. Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially on south- and west-facing windows. This small change can lower indoor temperatures and reduce AC usage. 6. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely Ceiling fans don’t cool the air, but they make you feel cooler by circulating it. Run fans counterclockwise during the summer to create a breeze effect, which allows you to raise your thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. 7. Consider an Energy-Efficient Upgrade If your HVAC system is more than 10–15 years old, it might be time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model. Native Air offers high-efficiency air conditioners and heat pumps tailored to the specific climate needs of homes in Gaston County. We can help you determine the right solution for your budget and comfort goals. Check out our air conditioner product page to learn about some of the energy efficient cooling products we carry and install here at Native Air in Lowell, NC. Let Native Air Help You Stay Cool and Save At Native Air, we’re proud to help our neighbors in Lowell, Gastonia, Belmont, and all across Gaston County keep their homes cool while saving money. Whether you need a summer AC tune-up, thermostat upgrade, or full system replacement, our friendly HVAC team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your service or get a free estimate — and take control of your summer energy bills the smart way!

Spring is the perfect time to give your HVAC system some attention before the hot summer months arrive. While the weather in Lowell, NC, is still mild, it’s important to make sure your air conditioner is in good shape. You don’t want to wait until the heat of summer to find out your AC is malfunctioning! At Native Air, we’ve seen it all when it comes to air conditioning problems, and we want to help you catch any issues before they turn into costly repairs. Here are some common signs your air conditioner might need repair this spring. 1. Your AC Isn’t Blowing Cool Air One of the most obvious signs that your air conditioner needs attention is if it’s not blowing cold air. If your unit is running but the air coming from the vents is warm or lukewarm, this could indicate an issue with the refrigerant or the compressor. This is a problem that should be addressed right away to prevent further damage. 2. Strange Noises Coming from the Unit If your air conditioner is making unusual sounds such as grinding, squealing, or rattling, it could mean there’s an issue with a fan, belt, or another internal component. While some noise is normal, loud or unusual sounds can be a sign of something more serious that could lead to a breakdown. 3. Water Leaks Around the AC Unit AC units produce condensation, but if you notice water pooling around your system, there may be a drainage issue or a refrigerant leak. Both of these problems can cause significant damage to your system and your home if not addressed in time. 4. Weak Airflow or Poor Circulation If the airflow from your AC is weak, or if certain areas of your home aren’t cooling down properly, this could indicate clogged filters, a malfunctioning blower fan, or ductwork issues. Low airflow puts additional strain on your AC, making it work harder and leading to higher energy bills. 5. Increased Energy Bills Have your energy bills been steadily increasing, even though your usage hasn’t changed? An inefficient air conditioner can cause your utility bills to spike. If your AC unit is older or running inefficiently, it could be using more energy than necessary to cool your home. Regular maintenance or repairs could help bring those costs down. 6. Foul or Musty Odors from the Vents If you notice unpleasant odors, like a musty smell or burning scent, coming from your air vents, something is wrong with your system. A musty smell could indicate mold or mildew growing in the ductwork or around the evaporator coils. A burning smell could be a sign of an electrical issue or overheating, which is a serious concern. 7. The AC Unit Is Constantly Cycling On and Off If your air conditioner keeps turning on and off in short bursts, this is known as short-cycling. It could be caused by a malfunctioning thermostat, clogged filters, or a refrigerant issue. This not only affects your comfort but also increases wear and tear on the system, leading to potential breakdowns. 8. Your Thermostat Isn’t Responding If your thermostat is acting up—whether it’s not displaying the correct temperature or it’s unresponsive—it could be a sign of a deeper issue. Your thermostat controls the cooling cycles, and problems here could lead to inconsistent temperatures and energy inefficiency. Why You Should Address AC Problems Now If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to schedule a service call with Native Air right away. Taking care of repairs in the spring before the summer heat hits will ensure your AC system is ready to keep you cool and comfortable all season long. Plus, addressing problems early can help you avoid costly repairs or even a complete system replacement. Ready to Schedule an AC Repair in Lowell, NC? Don’t wait until your AC breaks down in the middle of summer! At Native Air, we specialize in AC repairs, maintenance, and installations in Lowell, NC, and surrounding areas. Our experienced technicians will diagnose the problem quickly and get your system running smoothly again. Contact us today to schedule your spring AC inspection or repair! Check out our air conditioning service page to learn more about how we can keep your Lowell, NC home cool and comfortable all spring and summer long.