Deep Dive of Derek Cole's article: https://www.simmonsonehour.com/blog/s... Episode 678 of the Home & Life Comfort PodcastSnowstorms always bring the same heat pump worries:Is that steam normal?Why is there ice on the outdoor unit?Why does it feel like it’s blowing cool air?And what does “Aux Heat” actually mean?In this deep dive, I break down what’s normal winter heat pump behavior… and what are true warning signs that you need to call a professional.Most heat pumps will frost up during freezing weather and then clear themselves off with a defrost cycle. That can look dramatic — steam, longer run times, even Aux Heat turning on — but it’s often completely normal.But there is a line between normal winter operation and a real mechanical problem.In this video, we cover:Why heat pumps ice up after snow and sleetWhat the defrost cycle is (and why steam is usually NOT smoke)Why your system may run nonstop during extreme coldWhat Aux Heat means — and when it’s expectedWhen NOT to switch to Emergency HeatThe real warning signs: solid ice encasement, fan failure, falling indoor tempsIf your heat pump is acting up after the storm, this video will help you know when to relax… and when to pick up the phone.📍Serving the Sandhills and surrounding areas: Fayetteville, Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Laurinburg, Lumberton, Sanford, and beyond.If you have questions, drop them in the comments — happy to help.

This "Why Your Power Bill Keeps Going Up" article's DEEP DIVE identifies several hidden factors that cause residential electricity costs to rise even when a homeowner’s habits remain the same. The primary culprits are mechanical degradation and internal debris, which force heating and cooling units to work harder and consume more power to maintain standard temperatures.

Additionally, the text explains that structural issues like settling insulation or air leaks allow treated air to escape, further increasing the workload on the system. External variables, such as rising utility rates and minor weather shifts, also contribute to the compounding expenses seen on monthly statements.

Ultimately, the source emphasizes that proactive maintenance and regular filter changes are essential strategies for preventing these gradual efficiency losses. The author concludes that high bills serve as a warning sign that a home's climate control system requires professional attention or optimization.

You didn’t change the thermostat.
You didn’t add square footage.
You didn’t start running the system more.

So why is your power bill higher?

In this episode, Derek Cole breaks down the real reasons energy bills keep climbing in homes that feel exactly the same. The truth is, rising power bills usually aren’t caused by one big failure. They’re caused by small, hidden efficiency losses that build up over time.

We talk about how aging HVAC systems quietly use more electricity, how airflow and dirt affect energy costs, why homes slowly lose their ability to hold comfort, and how rising utility rates amplify all of it.

No scare tactics. No sales pitch. Just honest explanations from years in the field to help homeowners understand what their house is telling them — before the bill becomes the wake-up call.

If you’ve ever looked at your energy bill and thought, “Nothing changed,” this episode is for you.

This guide outlines essential troubleshooting steps for homeowners to take when their heating system fails to activate. To avoid unnecessary service costs, individuals should first verify that thermostat settings are correct and confirm the circuit breaker has not tripped. Additionally, maintaining a clean air filter is vital for preventing the system from overheating and shutting down automatically. While basic checks are encouraged, the source warns against repeatedly resetting breakers or attempting complex mechanical repairs. Ultimately, the text emphasizes that consistent professional maintenance is the most effective way to prevent sudden breakdowns and extend the life of expensive HVAC equipment. Overlooking these simple tasks can turn a minor issue into a costly emergency repair. Here is Derek's Video: • No Heat? Start Here | What Homeowners Shou... The article: https://www.simmonsonehour.com/blog/n...

Your heat stops working and panic sets in. Before you assume the worst—or spend money you might not need to—there are a few simple things every homeowner should check first.

In this episode of the Home & Life Comfort Podcast, we walk through the most common reasons a heating system stops working, what you can safely check on your own, and when it’s time to call a professional. No scare tactics. Just straight answers to help you get warm again.

If you want your HVAC system to last longer, run better, and cost less to operate, there’s one habit that matters more than anything else. In this episode, Derek Cole breaks it down simply—what actually hurts HVAC systems, why most homeowners don’t see it happening, and the one thing that consistently makes the biggest difference.

In this deep-dive, we tackle Derek Cole's 2026 outlook and we break down the massive shifts coming to the HVAC industry in 2026. If you’re still using the "Wait Until It Breaks" method, you might be in for a costly surprise.From smart, self-monitoring systems to non-negotiable indoor air quality (IAQ) standards, the way we heat and cool our homes is changing. Learn how to transition from reactive repairs to proactive home comfort design.In this video, we cover:The Death of the "Wait Until It Breaks" Mindset: Why procrastination is punishing your wallet.High-Efficiency Standards: What the new minimum requirements mean for your monthly bills.The Rise of Smart AC: How proactive monitoring prevents preventable breakdowns.Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): Why clean air is now a non-negotiable part of home comfort.Planning by Design: How to ensure your system is correctly sized and installed for 2026."Comfort, efficiency, and clean air don't happen by accident—they happen by design." — Derek ColeAbout Derek Cole: Derek is a seasoned HVAC professional with almost 25 years of experience helping homeowners in Fayetteville, Pinehurst, and Laurinburg stay comfortable. Known for his straight talk and commitment to customer education, Derek leads the award-winning team at Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning.Connect with us: 🌐 Website: SimmonsOneHour.com 📍 Serving: Laurinburg, Fayetteville, Pinehurst, & surrounding areas. 📞 Need help? Call us at 910-276-2790Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more expert home comfort tips!#HVAC #HomeImprovement #EnergyEfficiency #DerekCole #SimmonsOneHour #IndoorAirQuality #SmartHome #2026Outlook #HomeMaintenance--Derek Cole is the General Manager of Simmons One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning®, an independently owned and operated franchise based in Laurinburg, North Carolina since 1953. He has been in the HVAC industry since 2001 and has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise Player Spotlight. Derek has also been seen on CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, and Bloomberg Business sharing about home comfort tips.

Most homeowners aren’t ready for what HVAC will look like in 2026.

Energy costs are rising. Systems are getting smarter and more complex. And the old “wait until it breaks” mindset is about to get a lot more expensive.

In this episode, Derek Cole breaks down the real changes coming to home heating and cooling — what’s becoming non-negotiable, what will cost more, and how homeowners can stay comfortable by planning ahead.

No hype. No scare tactics. Just straight truth from the field.