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(843) 708-8735
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Home of the $0 FREE Service Call Club | 0% Interest for 24 Months

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Summer storms in Charleston can come on fast and hit hard. While we often think about protecting our homes and vehicles, the HVAC system is easy to overlook. With high winds, heavy rain, and power surges, a summer storm can put a lot of stress on your heating and cooling equipment. That kind of damage isn’t just a hassle. It can leave your home uncomfortable right when you need relief the most.

Your HVAC system works hard to keep your home at the right temperature year-round, and it deserves protection during storm season. From outdoor unit damage to sudden shutdowns, these weather events can cause problems that are both costly and inconvenient. Taking the right steps before, during, and after a storm hits Charleston can help you avoid bigger issues later and keep your system running smoothly.

Understanding Summer Storms In Charleston

Living in Charleston means hot, humid summers that often bring sudden and intense storms. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, and they usually involve strong winds, heavy rainfall, and plenty of lightning. On top of that, the storm season overlaps with hurricane season, which can bring even more extreme weather into the mix.

These conditions can do serious harm to HVAC systems, especially those with outdoor units exposed to the elements. Here’s how summer storms can impact Charleston heating and air systems specifically:

– Power Outages: Storms often knock out electricity. A sudden loss of power can shut off your HVAC system in the middle of use, which can damage its internal parts if it restarts in the wrong way.

– Power Surges: Electrical surges during lightning strikes or when power is restored can wreck your system’s circuit boards.

– Flooding: Heavy rainfall can collect around your outdoor unit, especially if your yard doesn’t drain well. Constant exposure to water can impact both the inside and outside of the unit.

– Debris Damage: Branches, trash, and other objects can get blown into your system, denting the casing or damaging the fan blades and coils.

One example that comes up often is a homeowner who left lawn chairs and garden tools near their system before a summer storm. Winds blew several items into the large fan blades, bending them and leaving the unit stuck. Repairs like this mean being left without cool air in the middle of a hot Charleston day, and they’re preventable.

Even if your system keeps working after a storm, small bits of damage can build over time. Acting early helps prevent breakdowns and helps catch small problems before they grow into costly repairs.

Preparing Your HVAC System For Storms

The best way to limit damage is to prepare your HVAC system before you ever see storm clouds. Taking a few simple actions ahead of time can go a long way in keeping both comfort and costs in check.

Here’s what Charleston homeowners should do before the next storm:

1. Clear the area around your outdoor unit. Trim shrubs, rake leaves, and make sure there’s nothing like toys, tools, or decorations that could blow into the unit.

2. Tie down or store outdoor furniture. Lightweight chairs and tables can get swept up in strong winds and crash into your HVAC system.

3. Schedule a storm-season inspection. Having a local professional check your equipment at the start of summer helps spot any weak spots or wear that might lead to problems during a storm.

4. Install a surge protector. This adds a layer of defense that can shield your HVAC system from unexpected electrical spikes.

5. Consider a backup power source. A generator can keep your system running even if the neighborhood loses power, helping maintain indoor comfort and air circulation.

Planning ahead might take a little time, but it’s easier to deal with storm prep on a sunny day than in the middle of an emergency. A few precautions now can save you from losing your cool later.

Protecting Your HVAC System During a Storm

As a storm approaches, there are steps you can take to shield your HVAC system from the brunt of the weather. First, it’s a good idea to turn off your system at the thermostat to avoid damage from power surges. This will help keep the internal components safe from potential harm when the electricity fluctuates during the storm.

Next, cover your outdoor unit. Use a breathable fabric cover, which can protect against flying debris while still allowing moisture to escape. Be careful to avoid using plastic or anything that traps moisture, as this can lead to rust or mold. During the storm, keep a safe distance from windows and doors and monitor your system from inside your home. If the weather conditions become severe, keep yourself informed through local news or weather apps.

Post-Storm Maintenance and Inspection

Once the storm has passed and it’s safe to go outside, take a few minutes to check your HVAC system. Start by looking for any visible debris or damage around your outdoor unit. This includes leaves, branches, or anything else that might have been blown over during the storm. Clearing these items away ensures proper airflow and prevents clogging or blockage.

Examine your system for any signs of damage, such as bent fins, loose wires, or water pooling around the unit. While you can handle some of this inspection on your own, a professional check-up is also wise to ensure nothing has been damaged internally. Getting a trained eye on your system can reveal hidden issues that might not be immediately obvious but could lead to costly repairs down the line.

Ensuring Long-Term Protection

Protecting your HVAC system from summer storms isn’t just about immediate actions. Ongoing maintenance and occasional upgrades can offer long-term safety for your system. Regular check-ups during the storm season can catch small issues before they escalate into major problems. Consider also upgrading your system with advanced protective measures like surge protectors and improved drainage systems.

One way to think about this is like weatherproofing a home. Just as you would strengthen your windows or secure your roofing to withstand storms, adding these features to your HVAC system provides that extra layer of security. They act as a shield, preventing electrical and water damage, keeping your equipment running smoothly no matter what the weather throws at you.

Stay Safe and Comfortable in Any Weather

By taking these steps, you’re not just protecting your HVAC system. You’re also helping to ensure your home remains a sanctuary during turbulent storms. Each precaution you take adds to the overall durability of your heating and air system. It’s all about planning ahead and taking thoughtful steps to deal with Charleston’s summer storm season.

Remember, while a little prep work goes a long way, knowing when to call in the pros is equally important. Trained experts can often spot potential issues and determine the best solutions more effectively. With a well-protected HVAC system, you can focus on enjoying the summer, knowing your home comfort is secured.

As you navigate the challenges of protecting your HVAC system during Charleston’s unpredictable summer storms, it’s smart to have a local team you can rely on for maintenance and repairs. Learn how Coastal Carolina Comfort can help you stay comfortable year-round with dependable Charleston heating and air services tailored to your home. Get in touch today to schedule expert support that keeps your system storm-ready.

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Hvac Repair In Summerville
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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
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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

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