three outdoor AC units

Why AC Sizing Matters

August 7, 2025 | Air Conditioning

Don’t Fall into the Trap of Buying an Oversized Unit Homeowners tend to keep their air conditioning units for a long time. Yet, if saving money is your goal, it could pay to weigh the operating costs of your aging, less-efficient unit against the savings of upgrading to a new, efficient unit. Why Is a […]

Two Black Hills HVAC techs

Extending the Lifespan of Your Mini-Split With Regular Deep Cleaning

March 27, 2025 | Air ConditioningAir Quality

Ductless mini-splits are a popular choice in Olympia for efficient, customizable comfort. However, without regular maintenance, dust and debris can reduce efficiency and shorten their lifespan. The good news is that deep cleaning can extend the life of your system by 3 to 5 years. In this blog, we’ll cover: Why Deep Cleaning Matters for […]

AC furnace tech talk to customer

Understanding the Cost of HVAC Repairs vs. Replacement

March 26, 2025 | Air Conditioning

Why So Many Systems Break at the Same Time Most systems aren’t tested before they’re turned on. This means that the first time you and your neighbors need your AC, it might fail during the first major heatwave. When your HVAC system starts acting up, you’re faced with a crucial decision: should you repair or […]

HVAC tech shaking hands with client

Getting Your AC Ready For The Cooling Season

February 17, 2025 | Air Conditioning

Keeping your home comfortable during the in-between seasons can be tricky. Temperatures will fluctuate more often between spring and summer than they will during any other time of the year. Some days will be hotter than others. But these are the signs that summer is just around the corner. Here at Black Hills Inc, Heating […]

house diagram with the words How do I Find My HVAC Intake?

How Do I Find My HVAC Intake?

November 18, 2023 | Air Conditioning

Your HVAC system contains numerous vents that blow hot or cold air into your rooms, distributing the air throughout your home. But where does your HVAC get the air in the first place? Your HVAC system must get the air either from inside or outside the home. All HVAC systems have at least one return […]

Do I Need Separate Heating and Cooling Systems Cartoon

Do I Need Separate Heating and Cooling Systems?

February 24, 2023 | Air ConditioningHeat PumpHeating

In the United States, most people use a furnace to heat their homes. Central air conditioners are pretty much standard when it comes to cooling them. But are separate heating and cooling systems always necessary?  Depending on where you live, you may use only one system for half of the year, yet have to pay […]

ductwork with words How Much Does Metal Ductwork Cost?

How Much Does Metal Ductwork Cost?

February 10, 2023 | Air Conditioning

As of 2023, the average air duct replacement cost is between $1,400 and $5,600. Prices continue to rise, especially as the cost of raw materials such as steel. The material is one of the largest factors affecting the cost of installing ductwork. Here, we’ll address the question, “How much does metal ductwork cost?” and other […]

attic ductwork with words tips for installing ductwork in an old house

Tips for Installing Ductwork in an Old House

January 27, 2023 | Air ConditioningHeating

Old homes can be charming but often lack the comfort and convenience of modern heating and cooling systems. Updating your HVAC unit usually requires installing bulky air ducts. While the property may not have been designed for ductwork, there are options for you to reap the benefits of a fully conditioned space. Installing ductwork in […]

AC refrigerant with the words how to know you need an AC refrigerant recharge

How to Know You Need an AC Refrigerant Recharge

January 13, 2023 | Air Conditioning

Your air conditioner will need to be “recharged” if it’s low on refrigerant. The process includes adding coolant, pressurizing the system and checking for leaks. After all, an AC doesn’t burn up refrigerant. It circulates through a closed system. If it’s low, there’s almost certainly a problem. But how do you know an AC refrigerant […]

AC refrigerant canisters with words what happens if you put R410A in R22 System

What Happens If You Put R410A in an R22 System?

December 23, 2022 | Air Conditioning

One sign that it’s time for an AC replacement is when your system still uses R22 refrigerant. Also known as Freon, R22 was banned due to its contribution to ozone layer depletion and ecological harm. Freon is becoming scarcer and more expensive as a result. The new standard, R410A, is more environmentally friendly but cannot […]