If your home is over 50 years old, it's time to take a closer look at your electrical panel. Aging electrical systems can pose significant fire risks, especially when they're not equipped to handle today's electrical demands.

Summer in Little Rock isn’t just hot—it’s hot and humid. With temperatures regularly soaring into the 90s and humidity levels that can make it feel even hotter, keeping your home cool and comfortable becomes essential—not just for your comfort, but for your health and energy bills too. At Bert Black, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners in the Little Rock Metro prepare their HVAC systems for summer’s worst. Here are 8 smart HVAC tips that will help you stay cool, lower your electric bill, and avoid emergency repairs this season. 1. Get a Professional HVAC Tune-Up Before the Peak Heat Start the summer off strong by scheduling a pre-season tune-up. Our certified HVAC techs will clean your coils, check refrigerant levels, inspect ductwork, and test for efficiency and safety. This service ensures your system isn’t working overtime just to keep up—and helps you avoid a breakdown during a heatwave. We recommend Little Rock homeowners have their systems serviced before summer, especially if you live in an older home or haven’t had maintenance in over a year. 2. Change Your Air Filters—Often When was the last time you changed your air filter? A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder and making your home less cool. In Little Rock’s dusty, pollen-filled spring and summers, you should change your filters every 1–2 months, especially if you have pets or allergies. Bert Black can also recommend high-efficiency filters or install a whole-home air purification system for even better indoor air quality. 3. Seal Leaks in Ductwork and Around Doors and Windows Cool air escapes fast through cracks and gaps in your ductwork, windows, and doors. If your AC seems to be running constantly but the house still feels warm, you may be losing air through leaky ducts or unsealed windows. Our HVAC team can inspect your duct system, seal problem areas, and help identify trouble spots in your insulation—common issues in many older Little Rock neighborhoods. 4. Install a Smart Thermostat to Maximize Efficiency A smart thermostat can make a huge difference in how efficiently your HVAC system runs. You can schedule temperature changes throughout the day, cool down the house before you arrive home, or adjust settings remotely during a heatwave. Plus, smart thermostats provide detailed energy reports so you can see how your usage changes over time. Bert Black offers expert installation and integration with your existing system—no guesswork needed. 5. Use Ceiling Fans to Help Circulate Cool Air Ceiling fans don’t cool the air—but they help you feel cooler by moving air across your skin and distributing your AC’s airflow more evenly. Set your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in summer to create a downward breeze. This small adjustment can allow you to bump your thermostat up a few degrees without sacrificing comfort, helping you save on energy bills. 6. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear of Debris Your AC’s outdoor condenser unit needs airflow to function efficiently. Over time, leaves, grass clippings, and debris can block vents and reduce performance. Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit and hose it off occasionally during the summer. If you’re unsure whether your outdoor unit is functioning properly, Bert Black’s HVAC techs can do a quick inspection to make sure it’s not being overworked or showing signs of wear. 7. Consider a Zoning System or Mini-Split for Trouble Spots Many homes built in Little Rock prior to the 1980s often have one room that never seems to cool down—like an upstairs bedroom, sunroom, or home office? It may be time to consider HVAC zoning or adding a ductless mini-split unit to target specific areas. Zoning systems let you control the temperature in different parts of the house independently, reducing strain on your central system. Mini-splits are ideal for converted garages, new additions, or spaces that don’t get good airflow. 8. Know the Signs of a Struggling System—and Act Fast Strange noises, weak airflow, musty smells, or unusually high energy bills? These could be early warning signs that your system is under stress—or about to fail. Don’t wait for a total breakdown in the middle of a 98° day. At Bert Black, we offer fast, honest HVAC repair service for homes across Little Rock. Our techs will diagnose the issue, explain your options, and get your system back to keeping you cool—fast. Stay Cool All Summer—With Help From Bert Black Summer comfort doesn’t happen by accident. It takes the right equipment, regular maintenance, and a team you can trust. Whether you need a simple tune-up, an emergency repair, or a whole new system, Bert Black is here for Little Rock homeowners. Schedule your AC service today or give us a call—and stay cool out there!

If you own a home in Little Rock, you know just how unpredictable the weather can be. One week you’re blasting the AC; the next, you’re digging out your space heater. Whether you live in Downtown, Midtown, or West Little Rock, or north of the river in Maumelle or NLR, a comfortable home isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Here at Bert Black, we’re proud to serve Greater Little Rock with reliable HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and generator solutions. Based on decades of experience, here are 10 ways you can boost the comfort, safety, and efficiency of your Little Rock home this year. 1. Book an HVAC Tune-Up Before Arkansas Heat Hits Little Rock summers bring heat indexes over 100°, and if your air conditioning isn’t operating at peak performance, your home can become uncomfortable fast. A seasonal tune-up ensures your system runs efficiently and can catch small problems before they turn into costly breakdowns. During a visit, our Bert Black HVAC pros will clean coils, check refrigerant levels, test safety controls, and make sure your thermostat is calibrated correctly. This reduces energy waste, extends the life of your unit, and keeps your utility bills in check. We recommend doing this twice a year—before summer and winter—especially if you live in older homes near Capitol View Hillcrest or the Quapaw Quarter. If you own a home in Little Rock, you know just how unpredictable the weather can be. One week you’re blasting the AC; the next, you’re digging out your space heater. Whether you live in Downtown, Midtown, or West Little Rock, or north of the river in Maumelle or NLR, a comfortable home isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Here at Bert Black, we’re proud to serve Greater Little Rock with reliable HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and generator solutions. Based on decades of experience, here are 10 ways you can boost the comfort, safety, and efficiency of your Little Rock home this year. 2. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat That Adjusts to Arkansas’s Mood Swings Little Rock weather can turn on a dime. A smart thermostat gives you control—whether you’re at home, at work downtown, or enjoying some family time at one of Little Rock’s many parks. These devices adapt to your habits and adjust the temperature automatically to keep your space comfortable without overworking your HVAC system. They also help reduce your energy consumption, which is great for your wallet and the environment. At Bert Black, we install models that integrate with most HVAC systems and even allow zoning setups for maximum control. You’ll also enjoy features like voice control, scheduling, and energy usage reports. 3. Switch to a Tankless Water Heater for On-Demand Comfort Hot water shouldn’t be something you have to wait for—or run out of. A tankless water heater provides hot water when you need it, for as long as you need it. That means no more cold surprises after back-to-back showers, laundry loads, or dishwasher cycles. These compact systems take up less space, last longer than traditional tanks, and can reduce your energy bills since they only heat water as needed. Whether you're in a new build near Chenal or a mid-century home in Midtown, our plumbing experts can recommend and install the right system for your home and water usage needs. 4. Fix Leaks and Plumbing Issues Before They Become Emergencies That dripping faucet or gurgling drain might seem minor, but small plumbing issues often signal bigger problems brewing behind the scenes. In many Little Rock homes—especially older ones—plumbing systems may have worn joints, mineral buildup, or outdated materials that need attention. Whether it’s a slab leak in a Broadmoor rancher or low water pressure in a Hillcrest bungalow, our licensed plumbers can identify the root cause and make long-lasting repairs. We also offer camera inspections, leak detection, and repiping services. Tackling these issues early prevents damage to flooring, cabinetry, and even your foundation. 5. Install a Whole-Home Generator Before the Next Outage Thunderstorms, tornadoes, and winter ice storms are all part of life in the Little Rock Metro. And with a fragile power grid, blackouts can happen anytime. A whole-home generator ensures your HVAC, appliances, medical equipment, and security systems stay powered during any outage. Bert Black is a certified installer of Generac and Briggs & Stratton systems, and we handle everything—from helping you choose the right size to installing the fuel source, transfer switch, and routine maintenance. For families in Little Rock and North Little Rock neighborhoods with above ground power lines like the Heights, Hillcrest, Pleasant Valley, or Camack Village, it’s an essential comfort and safety investment. 6. Update Your Electrical System to Modern Standards Flickering lights, overloaded outlets, or an outdated fuse box aren’t just annoying—they’re potential safety hazards. Many Little Rock homes built before 1990 still operate on electrical systems that weren’t designed to support today’s demand for smart devices, appliances, and home automation. Our certified electricians can update panels, install dedicated circuits, and rewire aging systems. We also handle EV charger installations, whole-home surge protectors, and backup generator connections. With Bert Black, you can be sure your electrical system is safe, efficient, and code-compliant. 7. Seal Up Drafts in Windows, Doors, and Attics Homes in neighborhoods like Hillcrest or the Governor’s Mansion District are full of charm—but often lack proper insulation and sealing. Drafty windows and doors let in outside air, making your HVAC system work overtime and creating hot or cold spots throughout the home. You can boost comfort and energy savings by sealing cracks with weather stripping, insulating attic hatches, and upgrading windows when possible. Bert Black’s HVAC team can help identify airflow issues during routine inspections and recommend solutions to help your home retain conditioned air better. 8. Protect Your Electronics with a Whole-Home Surge Protector Little Rock storms can bring unexpected power surges that fry electronics, HVAC components, and appliances. A whole-home surge protector, installed at your main electrical panel, acts as a shield for everything plugged into your home. This is especially important for Little Rock residents who rely on sensitive equipment like CPAP machines, home offices, or smart home devices. Our electricians can install surge protection systems that last for years and provide peace of mind every time lightning flashes or the power flickers. 9. Add HVAC Zoning for Total Comfort Control If one room in your house is always hotter or colder than the others, it might be time to consider HVAC zoning. Zoning systems use smart dampers and thermostats to divide your home into separate comfort zones, each with its own settings. Perfect for multi-story homes in areas like the Heights or Chenal Valley, zoning allows you to control each area’s temperature based on usage. Keep the bedrooms cooler at night, warm the living room during the day, or save energy by turning off zones you’re not using. It’s customizable comfort—and we’ll install it seamlessly. 10. Get the Bert Black Home Team Advantage Let us take the hassle out of home maintenance. When you sign up Bert Black’s Home Team Advantage you get priority service, discounts on repairs, and routine maintenance checks across all major systems—HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and generators. We’ll help you stay ahead of problems, catch small issues early, and make sure your systems are performing at their best. For homeowners in Little Rock who want fewer surprises and more comfort, this is the easiest way to stay on top of it all. Your Home Deserves to Feel Comfortable—Every Day of the Year At Bert Black – AC • Heating • Plumbing • Electric, we don’t just fix problems—we help Little Rock homeowners avoid them altogether. From summer storms to winter freezes, we’ve got your back with expert service, honest advice, and a commitment to your home’s comfort and safety. Call today to schedule your next service or get a free quote.

Power surges can strike anytime—especially during Arkansas storms. Learn why a whole home surge protector is a smart investment for your home's safety and your electronics.

Maintaining your HVAC system is a key aspect of homeownership, especially in regions like Little Rock, Hot Springs Village, and Pine Bluff, AR, where temperature fluctuations demand optimal heating and cooling performance. Understanding the significance of seasonal HVAC maintenance can prevent breakdowns, extend your system's lifespan, and ensure year-round comfort.

Maintaining high indoor air quality levels isn't as daunting as it may seem. Bert Black - AC Heating Plumbing Electric is dedicated to ensuring your home has clean indoor air. Our guide discusses some simple changes that can significantly enhance your home's IAQ.

Learn how to prevent frozen pipes this winter with expert tips and professional pipe insulation services from Bert Black - AC Heating Plumbing Electric in Little Rock, Hot Springs, and Pine Bluff.

Discover how a whole home generator and a high-efficiency HVAC system can save you money, keep you comfortable, and ensure safety during Arkansas’ unpredictable seasons. Learn more today!

Get your home holiday-ready with Bert Black - AC Heating Plumbing Electric! From rooftop electrical for festive lights to carbon monoxide inspections and kitchen upgrades, ensure your home is safe, efficient, and ready for the season. Schedule today!