As summer temperatures rise across Knoxville and East Tennessee, many homeowners are bracing for higher electric bills. But cutting your energy use doesn't always require a big investment. In fact, a few low- or no-cost changes around your home can add up to significant savings—and keep your HVAC system from working overtime.
At Eco Home Solutions, we’re committed to helping our neighbors stay cool, comfortable, and energy efficient all summer long.
Here are six quick energy efficiency tips you can start using today—without spending a fortune:
1. Change Air Filters Regularly
Dirty air filters restrict airflow and force your HVAC system to work harder. Replace or clean filters monthly to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently.
2. Set Your Thermostat to the Highest Comfortable Temperature
The smaller the temperature difference between inside and outside, the lower your cooling costs. Try keeping your thermostat a few degrees higher when you're home and even higher when you're away.
3. Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat helps you automatically adjust the temperature throughout the day, reducing energy use when you're not home—without sacrificing comfort.
4. Use Fans to Help Cool Off
Ceiling and oscillating fans circulate air and make rooms feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. Just remember: fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when you leave!
5. Close Blinds and Curtains During the Day
Blocking out sunlight helps prevent heat gain indoors, reducing the need for constant air conditioning. Focus on rooms that get direct sun in the afternoon.
6. Seal Cracks Around Doors and Windows
Air leaks let cool air escape and hot air enter. Use weather stripping and caulk to seal up trouble spots and improve your home’s overall efficiency.
Small changes like these can make a big difference. And if you're not sure where to start, Eco Home Solutions can help you identify the biggest opportunities to save—whether that’s improving insulation, upgrading equipment, or just making smarter everyday choices.
Eco Home Solutions is a locally owned company offering heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and whole-home generator services throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee. We provide expert repair, maintenance, and installation services for homes and light commercial buildings.
Founded in 1982 by Mr. Richard Gilmer, we’ve built our reputation on fast, dependable service and eco-friendly practices. Our NATE-certified team is fully trained, drug-free, and EPA-certified—so you can trust us with your home’s comfort and safety.
From HVAC to plumbing and backup power, Eco Home Solutions is proud to be your fastest partner in comfort since 1982.
If your summer energy bills are creeping up, now’s the time to act. Let our experts help you improve your home’s efficiency with quick, practical upgrades that pay off fast.
📞 Call (865) 272-5888 or visit ecohomesolutions.com to schedule your energy efficiency consultation today!
Musty smells in air conditioners can come from clogged filters, moisture, mold, dirty ducts, and broken parts.
Look out for these signs: rising energy bills, uneven heating or cooling, strange noises, frequent repairs, the system's age, poor air quality, lack of comfort, leaks or moisture, outdated tech, and humidity issues at home.
Poor AC airflow can be caused by blocked registers, clogged air filters, duct leaks, fan motor failure, and computer module malfunctions.
Air conditioners cool your home by moving heat from inside to outside. They use refrigerant in a cycle between indoor and outdoor units.
An aging HVAC system uses more energy to keep your home comfortable, raising your bills. Watching your energy bills can show when it's time for maintenance or a new system.
Start by checking if the system is running by looking at the thermostat and fuse box. Then, search for any blockages or clogged air filters that might be stopping the airflow.
If the smell goes away quickly, it's likely okay. But if it doesn't, or if your home's temperature and humidity are off, you should check it out.
Uneven temperatures might mean ductwork problems, old equipment, or an inefficient system. Getting a new, right-sized, and balanced system can fix this and keep your home comfortable.
A capacitor failure can stop the fan motor from running, leading to no airflow from the AC. This issue needs a professional HVAC technician to fix it.
Mold and mildew love the warm, damp places in air conditioners. They grow on parts like the evaporator coil and ducts, causing bad smells.
Noises like banging, rattling, or squealing suggest mechanical issues, like worn parts or loose components. These sounds are serious and could lead to expensive repairs or system failure if ignored.
If the computer module controlling the compressor and fan fails, it can stop the system from blowing air. A technician must replace the faulty module to fix it.
Leaks let in dirt, dust, and mold spores, which can grow and cause bad smells in your ducts.
Older HVAC systems need more repairs to keep working. If repairs happen often, it might be cheaper to get a new, reliable system in the long run.
Without a working fan motor, your AC won't blow air. This issue requires a professional to repair or replace the bad fan motor.
Blocked vents and not enough return air can stop air from moving well. This lets moisture and mold grow, making smells.
Most HVAC systems last 10-15 years, depending on use and care. If your system is getting old, it's time to think about a new, energy-saving model.
Clogged or leaking ducts can block airflow, making the AC run but not cool the air. You might need professional duct cleaning and repair to fix this.
Problems like clogged drains, bad insulation, or sealing issues can cause water to build up. This creates a place for mold and mildew to grow, leading to bad smells.
If you're always adjusting the thermostat or feeling uncomfortable, your system might not be working right. A new, efficient system can give you better control over your home's climate.
If your AC doesn't cool or blow air, it might have a coil or compressor issue, like a refrigerant leak or a failed compressor. This causes no airflow and cooling.
Experts use special cleaners, antimicrobial treatments, and thorough cleaning to get rid of mold and mildew. This helps stop them from coming back.
Regular maintenance, like tune-ups, filter changes, and inspections, can catch and fix problems early. This can save you from big repairs or replacing your system too soon. It also makes your system last longer and work better.
Trying DIY repairs can damage your air conditioning system more. It's wise to call a trusted HVAC contractor for quick and correct repairs to avoid bigger, more expensive issues.
Cleaning your ducts gets rid of dust, dirt, and harmful stuff that can make your air smell bad and lower its quality.
New HVAC tech improves energy use, performance, and comfort. Old systems miss out on these benefits. Upgrading to a newer system can save energy and make your home more comfortable.
Regular tune-ups and cleaning by a professional HVAC technician keep your air conditioning running efficiently. This helps avoid airflow issues.
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