The Real Benefits of Upgrading to a Smart Thermostat in 2026

Tennessee weather has a way of keeping homeowners on their toes — cold mornings, mild afternoons, and the occasional surprise warm-up even in winter. If you’re constantly adjusting your thermostat to keep up, it may be time for a smarter solution.

For homeowners in Counce, Pickwick, Savannah, and throughout Hardin County, a smart thermostat is one of the easiest upgrades you can make to improve comfort, efficiency, and control without replacing your entire HVAC system.

Comfort That Adjusts to You

Unlike traditional thermostats, smart thermostats learn your routine. Over time, they automatically adjust temperatures based on when you’re home, away, or asleep. That means fewer chilly mornings, fewer overheated afternoons, and a more consistently comfortable home — even as the seasons change.

Lower Energy Bills Without Sacrificing Comfort

Smart thermostats help reduce unnecessary heating and cooling by running your system only when it’s needed. Many homeowners see savings simply by eliminating wasted energy during work hours, overnight, or while traveling.

Some models even provide energy usage insights, helping you understand where small adjustments can lead to real savings.

Control Your Home from Anywhere

Whether you’re running errands in Savannah, spending time near Pickwick Lake, or traveling out of town, smart thermostats let you control your home’s temperature right from your phone. Forgot to turn the heat down before leaving? A quick tap gives you peace of mind — no matter where you are.

A Great Match for Modern HVAC Systems

Smart thermostats pair especially well with today’s high-efficiency heating and cooling systems. They help systems run more smoothly, reduce short cycling, and can even extend the lifespan of your equipment by keeping operation more balanced.

A Small Upgrade That Makes a Big Difference

If you’re looking for a simple way to improve comfort, reduce energy use, and take control of your home environment in 2026, a smart thermostat is a smart place to start.

You can read the full guide on our blog to dive deeper into how smart thermostats work and what to look for when choosing one:
https://bit.ly/491wcM9

Ready to Upgrade Your Comfort?

If you’re considering a smart thermostat — or want to make sure it’s properly installed and set up to work with your HVAC system — we’re here to help.

📞 Call Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning today at 731-689-3651
📍 Serving Counce, Pickwick, Savannah, and all of Hardin County

2026 Energy-Saving Resolutions for a More Comfortable, Efficient Home

A new year is the perfect time to reset habits — not just personally, but at home too. As winter temperatures settle in and energy bills rise across Counce, Savannah, Pickwick, and throughout Hardin County, small changes can make a big difference in comfort and monthly costs.

If one of your goals for 2026 is to save money and use energy more wisely, these simple energy-saving resolutions are a great place to start.

1. Upgrade to LED Lightbulbs

Swapping out old bulbs for LED lighting is one of the easiest upgrades you can make. LED bulbs:

• Last significantly longer

• Use far less electricity

• Come in a wide range of colors and brightness levels

Over time, this small change can noticeably reduce your energy usage — especially during the shorter winter days.

2. Make Turning Off Lights a Habit

It sounds simple, but it adds up. Turning off lights when leaving a room helps cut unnecessary energy use and keeps your home running more efficiently. It’s an easy habit that pays off all year long.

3. Use Smart Plugs for Peace of Mind

Smart plugs take the guesswork out of everyday life. They allow you to:

• Automatically shut off hair tools and heated blankets

• Control devices remotely

• Reduce energy waste from items left plugged in

They’re especially helpful during busy mornings or chilly evenings when it’s easy to forget what’s still on.

4. Upgrade Your Home’s Insulation

Proper insulation plays a huge role in keeping your home comfortable during Tennessee’s changing seasons. Good insulation helps:

• Keep warm air inside during winter

• Reduce strain on your HVAC system

• Lower heating and cooling costs

Many homeowners don’t realize that insulation upgrades may also qualify for energy rebates — making this resolution even more rewarding.

Small Changes, Big Impact in 2026

Energy-saving habits don’t have to be complicated. A few thoughtful upgrades and everyday changes can improve comfort, lower utility bills, and reduce wear on your heating and cooling system.

As we move through winter and prepare for warmer months ahead, now is a great time to look at how your home uses energy — and where it can work smarter.

Old System Out. Daikin FIT In.

A New Year, a New Level of Comfort for Your Home

The new year is here, and with it comes colder mornings, unpredictable winter weather, and the promise of warmer days just around the corner. If your HVAC system struggled through last summer or barely kept up during recent cold snaps, now is the perfect time to think beyond another repair.

Your home deserves an upgrade — and that’s where Daikin FIT comes in.

Why “Repairing” an Old System Often Falls Short

In many homes across Counce, Pickwick, Savannah, and throughout Hardin County, HVAC systems are running well past their prime. While repairs may seem like the quick fix, aging systems often:

• Break down more frequently

• Struggle to maintain even temperatures

• Drive up monthly energy bills

• Can’t keep up with Tennessee’s changing seasons

As winter fades and spring approaches, this is the moment homeowners start noticing airflow issues, uneven heating, and rising costs. Instead of pouring money into an old system, upgrading now can save you stress when summer heat arrives.

What Makes Daikin FIT Different?

Daikin FIT isn’t just a replacement — it’s a comfort transformation.

Here’s what sets it apart:

Ultra-Quiet Operation
Daikin FIT systems are designed to run whisper-quiet, making them ideal for neighborhoods near Pickwick Lake, vacation homes, and residential areas where peace and quiet matter.

Energy Efficiency for Every Season
With inverter technology, Daikin FIT adjusts its output instead of constantly turning on and off. That means:

• More consistent temperatures

• Lower energy bills

• Better performance during both cold winters and hot Tennessee summers

Compact, Flexible Design
The slim, side-discharge design fits where traditional systems won’t — perfect for tight spaces, lake homes, and properties with HOA restrictions.

Reliable Comfort Year-Round
Whether it’s a January cold snap or a July heat wave, Daikin FIT is built to keep your home comfortable without overworking itself.

A Smart Upgrade for the New Year

Winter is one of the best times to plan an HVAC upgrade. Demand is lower than peak summer months, and you’ll be ready before the heat and humidity return. Homeowners searching for “HVAC upgrades near me” or “AC replacement in Hardin County” are choosing Daikin FIT because it delivers comfort, efficiency, and long-term peace of mind.

At Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning, we help homeowners in Counce, Savannah, Pickwick, and surrounding areas choose systems that actually fit their homes and lifestyles — not just whatever is on the shelf.

Is Daikin FIT Right for Your Home?

Daikin FIT is ideal if:

• Your current system is 10–15+ years old

• Repairs are becoming more frequent

• Your energy bills keep climbing

• You want quieter, more even comfort

• You’re planning ahead for summer

If you’ve been Googling “new HVAC system near me” or “energy-efficient heat pump in Hardin County,” this is the upgrade worth considering.

Free Smart Energy Starter Kit Helps Local Businesses Cut Energy Costs

Running a small or mid-sized business comes with plenty of challenges—and rising energy costs shouldn’t be one of them. From lighting and equipment to heating and cooling, energy use plays a major role in monthly operating expenses. The good news? There’s now an easy, no-cost way for eligible businesses to take control of their energy use and lower utility bills.

A FREE Smart Energy Starter Kit is available to help local businesses save up to $375 per year on energy costs—all while improving efficiency and comfort.

Why Energy Efficiency Matters for Small Businesses

Energy expenses often rank among the top operating costs for small and mid-size businesses. Older thermostats, inefficient lighting, and equipment that runs around the clock can quietly drive bills higher month after month.

By upgrading to smarter energy tools, businesses can:

• Reduce unnecessary energy usage

• Gain better control over heating, cooling, and power consumption

• Improve workplace comfort for employees and customers

• Lower long-term operating costs

Best of all, many of these upgrades don’t require expensive renovations or downtime.

What’s Included in the Smart Energy Starter Kit?

The Smart Energy Starter Kit is designed to deliver immediate savings with easy-to-use tools that fit seamlessly into everyday operations.

The kit includes:

• Smart Thermostat – Automatically adjusts heating and cooling for optimal efficiency

• Wi-Fi Smart Plug – Control equipment and devices remotely or on a schedule

• Smart Power Strip – Prevents energy waste from idle electronics

• Five additional energy-saving tools – Designed to reduce standby power use and improve efficiency

Each item works together to help businesses better manage energy consumption without changing how they operate day to day.

Bonus: Free LED Lighting Upgrade

Eligible businesses may also receive a FREE 25-pack of 4-foot LED tubes. Lighting upgrades are one of the fastest ways to reduce energy costs, and LEDs use significantly less electricity than traditional fluorescent bulbs—while lasting longer and improving light quality.

This upgrade alone can lead to noticeable savings, especially in warehouses, offices, retail spaces, and workshops.

How Much Can Businesses Save?

With smart controls, efficient lighting, and reduced energy waste, businesses can save up to $375 per year—sometimes more depending on usage patterns.

Those savings add up quickly, helping improve cash flow and reinvestment opportunities without upfront costs.

Supporting Local Businesses, Strengthening Communities

This program is about more than saving energy—it’s about supporting local businesses and helping communities thrive. Lower energy bills mean more resources for growth, employees, and customers.

When businesses save, the entire community benefits.

How to Get Started

Eligible businesses can claim their FREE Smart Energy Starter Kit and start saving right away.

👉 Get your kit here:
http://tva.me/UeF250XyoEb

Availability is limited, so businesses are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

10 Ways to Save Money on Your Heating Bill

When colder weather sets in, heating costs can quickly become one of the largest expenses on your monthly utility bill. The good news is that there are many effective ways to reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort. From small adjustments to larger home upgrades, these strategies can help keep your home warm while keeping costs under control.

Below are ten proven ways homeowners can lower their heating bills and improve overall energy efficiency.

1. Adjust Your Thermostat Strategically

Lowering your thermostat by just one or two degrees can lead to noticeable savings over the course of a winter. When you’re sleeping or away from home, reducing the temperature even slightly can cut unnecessary energy use.

A programmable or smart thermostat makes this easier by automatically adjusting temperatures based on your schedule.

2. Seal Drafts Around Doors and Windows

Air leaks are one of the most common causes of heat loss. Cold air entering through gaps around doors, windows, and baseboards forces your heating system to work harder.

Weatherstripping, caulking, and draft stoppers are affordable fixes that can make an immediate difference.

3. Upgrade Insulation

Proper insulation helps trap warm air inside during winter and keeps hot air out during summer. If your home lacks adequate insulation—especially in attics or crawl spaces—you could be losing a significant amount of heat.

Adding or upgrading insulation is one of the most effective long-term energy-saving improvements.

4. Maintain Your Heating System

A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently and uses less energy. Regular HVAC maintenance, including filter changes and professional inspections, ensures your system isn’t working harder than necessary.

Dirty filters alone can restrict airflow and increase energy use.

5. Use Zoning to Heat Only the Spaces You Need

Zoning systems allow you to control temperatures in different areas of your home independently. This prevents wasting energy on rooms that aren’t in use and helps maintain consistent comfort throughout the house.

Zoning can be especially useful for multi-level homes or households with varying comfort needs.

6. Take Advantage of Natural Sunlight

During daylight hours, open curtains and blinds on south-facing windows to let in natural warmth from the sun. At night, closing them helps retain heat and reduce cold drafts.

This simple habit can supplement your heating system at no cost.

7. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows

Older windows can be a major source of heat loss. Replacing them with energy-efficient windows can significantly reduce drafts and improve insulation.

While this is a larger investment, it can lead to long-term savings and improved comfort.

8. Improve Ductwork Efficiency

Leaky or poorly insulated ductwork can lose a substantial amount of heated air before it ever reaches your living spaces. Sealing and insulating ducts helps ensure warm air is delivered efficiently throughout your home.

This improvement can also reduce uneven heating from room to room.

9. Consider Upgrading Your HVAC System

Older heating systems tend to be far less efficient than modern models. Upgrading your heating and AC system can dramatically reduce energy consumption while improving comfort and reliability.

Many newer systems are designed to operate efficiently even in colder climates.

10. Schedule a Home Energy Audit

A professional home energy audit provides a clear picture of how your home uses energy and where improvements can have the biggest impact. Audits evaluate insulation, HVAC performance, air leaks, and more—helping homeowners make informed decisions about upgrades.

Start Saving on Heating Costs Today

Lowering your heating bill doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. By combining simple habits with targeted home improvements, you can create a warmer, more energy-efficient home all winter long.

Is Your Home Really Energy Efficient? What a Home Energy Audit Can Reveal About Your HVAC System

If your energy bills seem higher than they should be—or your home never feels quite as comfortable as you expect—you’re not alone. Many homeowners assume rising utility costs are just part of living through hot summers and cold winters. In reality, your HVAC system and the way your home uses energy may be telling a much different story.

That’s where a home energy audit comes in.

A home energy audit is one of the most effective ways to understand how your heating and cooling system impacts energy use, where your home is losing efficiency, and what improvements can make the biggest difference. For homeowners across Alabama, Savannah TN, Corinth MS, and Iuka MS, an audit can uncover hidden issues that quietly drive up monthly costs.

What Is a Home Energy Audit?

A home energy audit is a comprehensive evaluation of how your home uses energy. It looks beyond surface-level issues and focuses on the systems and components that influence comfort, efficiency, and long-term costs.

During an audit, professionals may assess:

• Your HVAC system’s performance and age

• Ductwork condition and potential air leaks

• Insulation levels in attics and walls

• Air infiltration around doors, windows, and vents

• Thermostat settings and system controls

The goal is simple: identify where energy is being wasted and pinpoint practical opportunities to save.

Why Your HVAC System Plays a Major Role

Your HVAC system is typically the largest energy user in your home. If it’s outdated, improperly sized, or struggling to distribute air evenly, it can work harder than necessary—leading to higher bills and inconsistent comfort.

A home energy audit can reveal:

• Inefficient heating and cooling cycles

• Air leaks that force your system to run longer

• Duct issues that waste conditioned air

• Opportunities to upgrade to more efficient equipment

For homeowners in this region, where temperatures can swing from freezing mornings to warm afternoons, HVAC efficiency matters year-round.

Common Problems Energy Audits Uncover

Many energy losses happen quietly, behind walls or above ceilings. Some of the most common findings include:

Leaky ductwork
Small gaps in ducts can leak a surprising amount of heated or cooled air into unconditioned spaces like attics or crawlspaces.

Poor insulation
Inadequate insulation allows heat to escape in winter and enter in summer, forcing your HVAC system to compensate.

Outdated equipment
Older HVAC systems often lack modern efficiency features, such as variable-speed motors or inverter technology.

Air infiltration
Drafts around doors, windows, and utility penetrations can significantly impact comfort and energy use.

How an Energy Audit Helps You Save Money

The value of a home energy audit isn’t just in identifying problems—it’s in helping you prioritize solutions. Instead of guessing where to spend money, you can focus on upgrades that deliver real returns.

Many homeowners find that addressing just a few key issues leads to:

• Lower monthly utility bills

• Improved indoor comfort

• Reduced strain on HVAC equipment

• Longer system lifespan

In some cases, audits also point homeowners toward rebates or incentives tied to energy-efficient upgrades.

When Should You Consider a Home Energy Audit?

A home energy audit is especially helpful if:

• Your energy bills keep rising without explanation

• Some rooms are consistently too hot or too cold

• Your HVAC system runs constantly

• You’re considering upgrading your heating or cooling system

• Your home is older or has never been evaluated for efficiency

Whether you live in a newer build or a decades-old home, an audit can provide clarity and direction.

Turning Insight Into Action

Once you understand how your home uses energy, making smart decisions becomes easier. Sometimes the solution is as simple as sealing ducts or adjusting insulation. Other times, it may involve upgrading to a more efficient HVAC system designed for modern comfort needs.

The key is having reliable information before making changes—and that’s exactly what a home energy audit delivers.

A Smarter Path to Comfort and Efficiency

Energy efficiency isn’t about sacrificing comfort. It’s about making your home work smarter. A home energy audit gives you the knowledge to improve comfort, reduce waste, and control costs—without unnecessary guesswork.

If you’ve ever wondered how efficient your home really is, this is the best place to start.

Cold-Climate Heat Pumps: The Myth-Busting Technology Changing the Way We Heat Homes

For years, homeowners were told the same thing: heat pumps don’t work when it’s cold. If you live in Alabama—or just across the state line in Savannah, Tennessee, Corinth, Mississippi, or Iuka, Mississippi—you’ve probably heard that advice before. When winter arrived, furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters were considered the only reliable ways to stay warm.

That belief is now outdated.

Thanks to major advances in cold-climate heat pump technology, modern systems are designed to provide steady, efficient heat even when outdoor temperatures drop well below what older heat pumps could handle. These systems are reshaping how homeowners think about winter comfort—and helping them lower energy costs at the same time.

What Is a Cold-Climate Heat Pump?

A cold-climate heat pump is a high-efficiency heating and cooling system engineered to operate reliably in lower outdoor temperatures. Instead of creating heat through combustion or electric resistance, heat pumps move heat from outside to inside—even when it’s cold.

While that may sound counterintuitive, heat exists in outdoor air year-round. Modern cold-climate heat pumps use advanced compressors and refrigerant technology to extract that heat efficiently and deliver it indoors.

For homeowners in northwest Alabama, Savannah TN, Corinth MS, and Iuka MS—where winters can swing from mild to sharply cold—this technology provides dependable performance without relying heavily on backup heat.

Why the Old Heat Pump Myths Still Exist

Many of today’s misconceptions come from experiences with heat pumps installed decades ago. Older systems ran at one speed: fully on or fully off. When temperatures dropped, they struggled to keep up and often switched to costly electric resistance heat, driving up energy bills.

Those limitations gave heat pumps a bad reputation in colder weather.

Today’s systems are entirely different.

How Cold-Climate Heat Pumps Handle Winter Weather

Modern cold-climate heat pumps use inverter technology, which allows the system to adjust its output continuously based on demand. Instead of cycling on and off, the system runs steadily at the level needed to maintain comfort.

This results in:

• More consistent indoor temperatures

• Fewer cold spots throughout the home

• Quieter operation

• Improved energy efficiency

Even during winter cold snaps, these systems maintain performance without the constant need for auxiliary heat—something older heat pumps simply couldn’t do.

Energy Efficiency That Pays Off

One of the biggest advantages of cold-climate heat pumps is efficiency. Because they move heat rather than generate it, they use significantly less energy than traditional heating methods.

Homeowners often notice:

• Lower monthly heating bills

• Reduced overall energy use

• Improved comfort with fewer temperature swings

• Long-term savings over the life of the system

In communities like Corinth MS and Iuka MS, where many homes still rely on aging furnaces or baseboard heaters, upgrading to a cold-climate heat pump can be a meaningful step toward better efficiency and comfort.

Year-Round Comfort in One System

Cold-climate heat pumps don’t just handle winter heating—they also provide efficient cooling during hot, humid summers. In Alabama and surrounding areas, that dual capability is a major benefit.

Instead of maintaining separate systems for heating and cooling, homeowners can rely on one high-efficiency solution that adapts to every season.

Are Cold-Climate Heat Pumps a Good Fit for This Region?

Many people assume cold-climate heat pumps are only useful in northern states, but regions like Alabama, southern Tennessee, and northeast Mississippi are actually well-suited for this technology.

They work especially well for:

• Homes with fluctuating winter temperatures

• Homeowners replacing older HVAC systems

• Families looking for quieter, more even heating

• Anyone interested in long-term energy savings

When properly sized and professionally installed, cold-climate heat pumps perform exceptionally well in this area.

Installation Matters

As with any HVAC upgrade, proper installation is critical. Factors like insulation, ductwork, home layout, and system sizing all affect performance. A qualified HVAC professional can ensure the system is designed specifically for your home’s needs and local climate.

This attention to detail makes the difference between a system that simply works—and one that truly delivers comfort and efficiency.

A Smarter Way to Heat Your Home

Cold-climate heat pumps are changing the conversation about winter comfort. They’re efficient, reliable, and built for modern homes—even when temperatures drop.

If you’re considering an HVAC upgrade or looking for smarter ways to stay warm without driving up energy costs, cold-climate heat pump technology is worth exploring.

Learn more about cold-climate heat pumps: https://bit.ly/495WPzt

Winter Is Here: Simple Ways to Stay Warm Without Raising Your Energy Bills

December 21 marks the official first day of winter, and for homeowners across Savannah, Tennessee; Corinth and Iuka, Mississippi; Florence, Alabama; and Counce, Tennessee, that means colder nights, frosty mornings, and heating systems working overtime.

When temperatures drop, it’s easy to assume higher utility bills are unavoidable. But the truth is, small changes around your home can make a noticeable difference in comfort and energy costs. You don’t need to crank the thermostat or invest in major upgrades to stay warm this season. Sometimes, the simplest habits are the most effective.

As we head into the coldest months of the year, here are a few practical, low-cost ways to keep your home cozy while keeping energy use under control.

Use Sunlight to Your Advantage

Even on cold winter days, the sun can be a powerful (and free) heat source.

During daylight hours, open blinds, curtains, and shutters on windows that receive direct sunlight. This allows natural warmth to enter your home and gently raise indoor temperatures without using extra energy.

Once the sun goes down, close those window coverings to help trap the heat inside. Heavy curtains or insulated blinds are especially effective in reducing heat loss overnight.

This simple habit is particularly helpful for homes in Savannah and Corinth, where winter days often bring bright sunshine despite chilly temperatures.

Stop Drafts Before They Steal Your Heat

Drafts are one of the most common reasons homes feel cold even when the heater is running. Gaps under doors, around windows, and near exterior walls allow warm air to escape — and cold air to sneak in.

Adding draft stoppers to exterior doors is an inexpensive fix that can immediately improve comfort. Weather stripping and door sweeps also help seal gaps and keep heat where it belongs.

If certain rooms always feel colder than others, drafts could be the culprit. Addressing them can make your entire home feel more evenly heated without adjusting the thermostat.

Make Use of Residual Heat

After baking or cooking, your oven holds onto warmth. Turning the oven off and leaving the door open once it’s safe to do so can release that residual heat into the surrounding space.

While this won’t heat your entire home, it can add a little extra warmth to kitchens and nearby rooms — especially during evening hours when temperatures drop.

This tip works best as a supplemental measure and should never replace safe heating practices, but it’s a smart way to make use of heat you’ve already paid for.

Lower the Thermostat — Just a Little

One of the most effective ways to save energy in winter is to lower your thermostat by a couple of degrees. Even a small adjustment can reduce heating costs over time.

Instead of turning the heat up, try layering up with sweaters or grabbing a cozy blanket. Many homeowners find they stay just as comfortable with a slightly lower setting — especially when drafts are sealed and sunlight is used effectively.

For families in Iuka and Florence, where winter temperatures can fluctuate, this approach offers flexibility without sacrificing comfort.

Why Small Changes Add Up

Individually, these tips may seem minor. But together, they can significantly reduce how hard your heating system has to work. Less strain on your HVAC system means:

• Lower monthly utility bills

• More consistent indoor temperatures

• Reduced wear and tear on equipment

• Fewer unexpected winter breakdowns

When paired with regular HVAC maintenance, these habits help your system run more efficiently all season long.

Local Homes, Local Solutions

Homes throughout northwest Alabama, southern Tennessee, and northeast Mississippi vary widely in age, layout, and insulation. That’s why one-size-fits-all advice doesn’t always work.

At Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve spent decades helping local homeowners prepare for winter with solutions that fit their specific homes and budgets. From quick efficiency tips to professional tune-ups, our goal is to help you stay comfortable without unnecessary energy waste.

A Comfortable Winter Starts with Smart Choices

Winter doesn’t have to mean skyrocketing utility costs. With a few thoughtful adjustments and energy-smart habits, you can enjoy a warm, comfortable home throughout the coldest months of the year.

If you’re looking for even more ways to save energy — or want professional guidance on improving your home’s efficiency — help is available.

📞 Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning

📍 5910 Hwy 57, Counce, TN 38326
📱 (731) 689-3651

Proudly serving Savannah, TN • Corinth, MS • Iuka, MS • Florence, AL • Counce, TN