(843) 708-8735
GET A QUICK QUOTE

Home of the $0 FREE Service Call Club | 0% Interest for 24 Months

Transparent Logo
(843) 708-8735
GET A QUICK QUOTE

Home of the $0 FREE Service Call Club | 0% Interest for 24 Months

Transparent Logo
(843) 708-8735
GET A QUICK QUOTE

Home of the $0 FREE Service Call Club | 0% Interest for 24 Months

Transparent Logo

When temperatures climb in Charleston, your air conditioner becomes more than just a comfort—it’s a necessity. Hot and humid days can push your system to its limits, especially if it’s already working overtime. Keeping your AC running the way it should during extreme heat doesn’t just keep your home cooler, it can also help reduce the chances of unexpected failures and rising indoor temperatures.

High heat can catch homeowners off guard if their system isn’t in top shape. Even newer units can run into problems without regular maintenance or small adjustments. Whether you’re dealing with a heatwave or just several warm days in a row, knowing how to keep your AC performing at its best can save you from a lot of stress, sweat, and last-minute emergency calls.

Common AC Challenges In Extreme Heat

Hot weather naturally puts more pressure on your AC system. The longer it runs without breaks, the harder it has to work to keep things cool. This extra demand can snowball into bigger problems if you’re not watching for the signs.

Here are a few common issues your AC might face in extreme heat:

– Increased strain on the system: When temperatures outside soar, your AC has to work harder and longer to push indoor temps down. That added strain can wear out parts faster, from the fan motor to the compressor. It’s not just fatigue. It’s a real threat to long-term function.

– Reduced cooling capacity: Even a well-functioning system can start to struggle when it’s constantly battling peak summer heat. You may notice warmer spots around the house or your system running nonstop without much of a drop in temperature.

– Risk of overheating: AC systems are a lot like cars. If they run too hard for too long, they can overheat. When that happens, one component failing can easily lead to another, often when you least expect it.

For example, one Charleston homeowner noticed their AC blowing warm air even though the unit was on. It turned out a clogged air filter mixed with high outdoor heat caused the system to lock up to protect itself. Something simple ended up cutting off cooling altogether.

Getting ahead of these common problems can mean the difference between enjoying a cool home and scrambling to schedule an emergency repair during the busiest season.

Steps To Ensure Optimal Performance

When your AC is fighting off a heatwave, even the smallest adjustment can help keep it from crashing. If you want your system to hang in there for the long haul, regular care and small preventative actions are a great place to start.

Here’s a list of easy but important ways to get the most out of your AC during high heat:

1. Schedule a maintenance check-up: An experienced technician can catch early signs of wear, recharge refrigerant if needed, and get ahead of any issues before they’re forced into emergency territory.

2. Clear debris around your outdoor unit: Trim bushes, remove leaves, and give the unit breathing room. Restricted airflow makes it run harder and hotter than it should.

3. Replace or clean air filters: A clogged filter cuts down airflow and makes your AC feel like it’s working with a stuffy nose. Fresh filters help your home cool down faster and keep air cleaner.

4. Adjust your thermostat settings: Setting your thermostat in the mid-to-high 70s can help balance comfort with performance. A programmable thermostat can tweak temps based on when you’re home or away.

5. Seal your doors and windows: Even the best AC unit can’t win against a leaky home. Check weather stripping and minimize air loss throughout the house.

These small steps can help ease the load on your system and extend its performance during long, hot spells. Being proactive now can help prevent bigger headaches later, especially when demand for repairs is at its highest.

When To Seek Emergency AC Repair

Sometimes, even with the best care, AC systems can hit a snag, especially during a relentless heatwave. Knowing when to call in the experts can save you a lot of trouble. Watch out for signs that your AC might be in trouble.

If your AC is blowing warm air, making unusual noises, or the airflow seems weaker than usual, these could be red flags. If your system shuts down and just won’t cool the home anymore, it’s a clear signal that something’s wrong. Another clue is if you’ve suddenly got rising electricity bills without a change in usage. That can mean the AC is working harder than it should be, and it’s best not to wait for a full failure.

Getting professional help promptly offers several benefits. Early intervention by a skilled technician can prevent small issues from turning into big, costly repairs. Repairs done in time also help restore the system’s efficiency, keeping your Charleston home comfortable without sending energy bills through the roof.

Preparing For Future Heatwaves

Looking ahead, it helps to be ready before the next round of heat rolls in. One of the first things to consider is upgrading to a more energy-efficient system. Today’s models are better at cooling and use less power, which is great on both performance and your monthly bills.

Another smart move is getting on a preventative maintenance schedule. That means regular check-ups to keep your system running right and spot trouble early. You wouldn’t go years without servicing your car, and your AC needs that same kind of attention to keep up with Charleston’s summer demands.

Homeowners can also learn a few best practices to stretch their AC’s performance. Things like keeping curtains closed during the hottest hours, running ceiling fans to boost circulation, and setting your thermostat around your daily schedule add up over time. These small changes protect your AC from overwork and increase home comfort too.

The goal is simple: stay ahead of potential breakdowns and catch wear-and-tear before it becomes a summer emergency.

Keeping Your Charleston Home Cool And Comfortable

Dealing with Charleston’s summer heat can be tricky, but it’s far from impossible. Keeping your AC running smoothly in high temperatures takes a mix of regular attention and quick action when problems show up.

Routine care like filter changes and system check-ups can go a long way in keeping your home cool. So can knowing when to step back and let an expert handle an issue before it turns into something bigger. These actions help give your AC the support it needs to keep performing all season long.

By planning ahead and paying attention to how your system is doing, you can stay cool and avoid surprise breakdowns. Charleston summers don’t hold back, but with a little effort and the right service partner, your home doesn’t have to sweat it.

If your AC starts acting up during a Charleston heatwave, getting quick help makes all the difference. Coastal Carolina Comfort is here with dependable support for emergency AC repair to get your home cool again as fast as possible. Whether your system suddenly shuts down or just isn’t cooling like it used to, our team is ready to step in. Reach out today and let us help keep your home comfortable when it matters most.

Share This Post

Get 10% Off Your First Service and a FREE Quote


More To Explore

Hvac Repair In Summerville
HVAC

The Summerville HVAC Maintenance Checklist

The Summerville HVAC Maintenance Checklist That Prevents 90% of Repairs Regular HVAC maintenance prevents up to 90% of common repairs and extends system lifespan by 5-7 years. Summerville homeowners should perform monthly tasks (filter checks, vent clearing, thermostat monitoring), seasonal tasks (condensate drain treatment, outdoor unit cleaning, refrigerant line inspection), and schedule professional tune-ups twice yearly—in spring before cooling season and fall before heating season. The Lowcountry’s extreme humidity, extended cooling season, and airborne particulates demand more frequent maintenance than national guidelines suggest. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, breaks down less often, and keeps your home comfortable year-round. Introduction: The Cheapest Repair Is the One You Never Need Here’s a number that should get your attention: 90%. That’s the percentage of HVAC repairs that could have been prevented with proper maintenance. Nine out of ten service calls we make in Summerville are for problems that didn’t have to happen. Clogged filters that caused compressors to overheat. Condensate drains that backed up and flooded ceilings. Capacitors that failed because coils were too dirty to dissipate heat. Refrigerant leaks that started as minor corrosion nobody caught. Every one of these repairs cost the homeowner hundreds—sometimes thousands—of dollars. And every one of them was preventable. At Coastal Carolina Comfort, we’ve maintained HVAC systems across the Lowcountry for over a decade. We’ve seen what neglect does to equipment in our climate. We’ve also seen homeowners who follow a simple maintenance routine go 10+ years without a single major repair. This guide gives you that routine. It’s specifically designed for Summerville’s climate—not generic advice written for somewhere with mild summers and low humidity. Follow this checklist, and you’ll dramatically reduce your repair bills, extend your system’s life, and stay comfortable no matter what the Lowcountry weather throws at you. Why Summerville Systems Need More Maintenance Before we dive into the checklist, let’s talk about why maintenance matters more here than almost anywhere else. The Extended Cooling Season In Minneapolis, an AC might run 4 months per year. In Summerville, we’re cooling 8-9 months—sometimes longer. That’s twice the operating hours, twice the wear, and twice the opportunity for problems to develop. A system that runs from April through November accumulates wear equivalent to nearly two years of operation in a milder climate. Maintenance intervals need to reflect that reality. The Humidity Factor Summerville’s average humidity hovers around 70-80% year-round. During summer mornings, it regularly exceeds 90%. This humidity: Forces your system to work harder (dehumidification uses significant energy) Creates ideal conditions for biological growth in drain lines and on coils Accelerates corrosion on electrical components and refrigerant lines Causes condensate drain clogs—one of the most common service calls we see Related: Learn how Summerville’s humidity damages HVAC systems Airborne Particulates Between pollen season (which feels like it lasts 8 months here), coastal salt air, and general Lowcountry dust, your system filters more particulates than systems in cleaner environments. Filters clog faster, coils get dirtier, and airflow restrictions develop more quickly. The Bottom Line National maintenance guidelines assume average conditions. Summerville doesn’t have average conditions—we have extreme conditions. Your maintenance routine needs to account for that. Monthly Maintenance Tasks These quick tasks take 10-15 minutes and should become habit. Do them on the same day each month—the first Saturday, the day you pay your mortgage, whatever helps you remember. 1. Check and Replace Your Air Filter This is the single most important thing you can do for your HVAC system. A clogged filter: Restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder Causes evaporator coils to freeze Leads to compressor overheating and failure Increases energy consumption by 5-15% Reduces indoor air quality How to check: Locate your filter (return air grille, air handler, or dedicated filter slot) Remove the filter and hold it up to light If you can’t see light through it clearly, replace it If it’s visibly gray or caked with debris, replace it immediately Summerville-specific guidance: During peak cooling season (May-September), check weekly and replace every 30-45 days During shoulder seasons, check monthly and replace every 45-60 days During pollen season (spring), you may need to replace every 2-3 weeks After storms or high-wind events, check immediately Filter recommendations: Use pleated filters rated MERV 8-11 for best balance of filtration and airflow Avoid fiberglass filters (minimal filtration) and ultra-high MERV ratings (can restrict airflow) Buy filters in bulk—you’ll use 8-12 per year in Summerville 2. Clear Supply and Return Vents Blocked vents disrupt airflow balance and force your system to work harder. Monthly walkthrough: Check all supply vents (where air blows out) for obstructions Check all return vents (where air is pulled in) for blockages Move furniture, curtains, rugs, or stored items that block airflow Vacuum vent covers to remove dust buildup Ensure all vents are open (closing vents doesn’t save energy—it creates pressure imbalances) 3. Monitor Thermostat Performance Your thermostat is the brain of your HVAC system. Small issues here cause big problems. Monthly checks: Verify the display is clear and responsive Confirm the temperature reading seems accurate (compare to a separate thermometer) Check that the system responds when you adjust settings Replace batteries annually (or when the low battery indicator appears) For smart thermostats, ensure WiFi connection is stable Warning signs: Temperature swings greater than 2-3 degrees from setpoint System not responding to setting changes Blank or flickering display “Auxiliary heat” running frequently (for heat pump systems) 4. Listen and Observe Your system tells you when something’s wrong—if you’re paying attention. Monthly awareness check: Listen for unusual noises (grinding, squealing, banging, clicking) Notice any unusual odors from vents Feel for weak airflow or temperature inconsistencies Watch for water around the indoor unit Check for ice on refrigerant lines (visible at the outdoor unit) Related: Know the 5 warning signs your AC is about to break down Seasonal Maintenance Tasks These tasks should be performed quarterly or at the start of each season. They’re more involved than monthly tasks but still manageable for most homeowners. Spring: Prepare for Cooling Season Complete these tasks in

Derrick Hall January 28, 2026
Hvac Repair Vs Replacement
Air Conditioning

HVAC Repair vs. Replacement

HVAC Repair vs. Replacement: A Summerville Homeowner’s Decision Guide Deciding between HVAC repair and replacement comes down to four key factors: the cost of repair relative to replacement (use the 50% rule—if repairs exceed half the cost of a new system, replace), the age of your equipment (systems over 15 years old are usually better replaced), refrigerant type (R-22 systems should be replaced due to phase-out costs), and repair frequency (multiple repairs per year signal it’s time). Summerville homeowners should also factor in energy efficiency gains, available rebates, and the demanding Lowcountry climate that shortens system lifespans compared to national averages. The Question Every Homeowner Dreads Your HVAC technician just delivered the news: your system needs a major repair. Maybe it’s a compressor. Maybe it’s a coil leak. Whatever it is, the number has four digits, and now you’re facing the question every Summerville homeowner eventually confronts. Do I fix it, or do I replace the whole thing? It’s not an easy decision. Repair feels like the cheaper option—until you’re repairing again six months later. Replacement feels like the responsible choice—until you see the price tag. And everyone from your neighbor to your brother-in-law has an opinion. At Coastal Carolina Comfort, we’ve guided thousands of Lowcountry homeowners through this exact decision. We’ve seen people waste money repairing systems that should have been replaced years ago. We’ve also seen people replace perfectly good equipment because someone talked them into it. This guide will give you the framework to make the right decision for your situation—not based on sales pressure, but on facts, math, and what actually makes sense for your home and budget. The 50% Rule: Your Starting Point The most reliable rule of thumb in the HVAC industry is simple: If the repair costs more than 50% of what a new system would cost, replace instead of repair. Here’s why this works: The Math Behind the Rule Let’s say a new HVAC system for your Summerville home costs $8,000 installed. Using the 50% rule: Repair cost under $4,000: Repair is likely the better value Repair cost over $4,000: Replacement makes more financial sense But this isn’t just about today’s repair. It’s about what comes next. A system that needs a $3,500 repair today is likely to need another significant repair within 1-2 years. That’s the nature of aging equipment—when major components fail, others are usually close behind. So that $3,500 repair might actually cost you $3,500 + $1,200 + $800 over the next two years. Suddenly you’ve spent $5,500 and still have an old, inefficient system. When to Adjust the Rule The 50% rule is a starting point, not an absolute. Adjust based on: System age: For systems under 8 years old, you might stretch to 60-70% before replacing—they likely have more good years ahead. For systems over 12 years old, consider replacing at 30-40% of replacement cost. Repair history: If this is the first major repair on a well-maintained system, lean toward repair. If it’s the third repair this year, lean toward replacement regardless of cost. Component involved: Some repairs (capacitor, contactor, fan motor) are normal wear items that don’t indicate broader system failure. Others (compressor, evaporator coil) often signal the beginning of the end. The Age Factor: How Old Is Too Old? System age is the second most important factor in your decision. Average HVAC Lifespan National average: 15-20 years with proper maintenance Summerville reality: 12-16 years is more typical Why the difference? Our systems work harder. A Summerville AC runs 8-9 months per year, often 12+ hours per day during summer. Compare that to a system in Minneapolis that might run 4 months per year. More operating hours means faster wear. Age-Based Decision Framework Under 8 years old: Almost always repair unless the cost exceeds 50% of replacement. These systems have significant life remaining. 8-12 years old: Evaluate carefully. Major repairs may be worthwhile, but start planning for eventual replacement. This is a good time to begin saving. 12-15 years old: Lean toward replacement for major repairs. The system is in its final years, and repair money is often better invested in new equipment. Over 15 years old: Replace for any significant repair. Even if the repair is relatively affordable, you’re likely facing additional failures soon. The efficiency gains alone often justify replacement. The Warranty Consideration Most HVAC systems come with: 5-10 year compressor warranty 5-10 year parts warranty 1 year labor warranty (sometimes extended by the installer) If your system is still under warranty, repair almost always makes sense—your out-of-pocket cost is limited to labor and any non-covered parts. Check your paperwork or call your installer to verify warranty status before making any decisions. The R-22 Refrigerant Problem If your system uses R-22 refrigerant (also called Freon or HCFC-22), this single factor may make your decision for you. What Happened to R-22 R-22 was the standard air conditioning refrigerant for decades. However, due to its ozone-depleting properties, the EPA phased it out: 2010: No new R-22 systems could be manufactured 2020: Production and import of R-22 banned entirely This means all R-22 available today is either recycled or reclaimed from decommissioned systems. Supply is limited and shrinking every year. The Cost Impact R-22 prices have skyrocketed: 2010: Approximately $10-15 per pound 2020: Approximately $50-75 per pound 2026: $100-200+ per pound depending on availability A typical residential AC system holds 6-12 pounds of refrigerant. If your R-22 system develops a leak, you’re looking at: Leak repair: $200-$1,000+ depending on location Refrigerant recharge: $600-$2,400+ for a full charge Total cost: Often $1,000-$3,000+ for a single repair And here’s the kicker—if it leaks once, it will likely leak again. You could face these costs repeatedly. How to Know If You Have R-22 Check the data plate on your outdoor unit. Look for: “R-22” or “HCFC-22” = R-22 system (consider replacement) “R-410A” or “Puron” = Modern refrigerant (repair may make sense) If your system was installed before 2010, it almost certainly uses R-22. Systems installed 2010-2015 could be either. Systems installed after 2015 are virtually all R-410A. Our Recommendation If you have an R-22 system that needs any refrigerant-related repair, replace

Derrick Hall January 28, 2026

SCHEDULE A $0 FREE SERVICE CALL AND GET A FREE QUOTE


GET A FREE ESTIMATE and schedule service


GET A FREE ESTIMATE and schedule service