Charleston, SC HVAC Service & Installation

Fall has arrived in Charleston — the mornings are cooler, the air feels a little crisper, and your heating system is about to move from “just in case” to “you’ll need it.” Even though deep winter freezes may be rare here, that doesn’t mean your HVAC system should skip a tune-up. A few smart checks now will help you stay comfortable, efficient, and avoid surprises later. 1. Transition Smart: The Heat Pump Mode Swap Many homes in the Lowcountry rely on a heat pump for both cooling and heating. During the fall, it’s an ideal time to make sure the system transitions cleanly. Switch your thermostat to “heat” and let the system run for a short period, watching for odd noises or poor performance. Clear debris away from your outdoor unit — leaves or pine straw can block airflow and reduce efficiency now and when it really matters. Confirm the outdoor unit has at least 2 ft of clearance and that the fan is unobstructed. A smooth transition now keeps your system ready for days when you’ll need the heat — without waiting until it’s inconvenient. 2. Moisture, Humidity & Air Quality: A Fall Primer Charleston’s fall air can feel comfortable, but indoor comfort still depends on airflow and humidity. Check if your home feels cold while the thermostat is set at a comfortable temperature. It could be due to drafts, blocked returns, or the fan being on “On” instead of “Auto.” As cooler nights set in, keep an eye on indoor humidity. Too low (under ~40%) and your home may feel colder; too high (over ~50%) and you risk mold or allergens becoming an issue. Clean or replace filters now — during the switch from cooling to heating, a clogged filter magnifies load and can bring inefficiency. 3. Thermostat Strategy for the Seasonal Shift Right now, you could be heating in the morning, cooling during the day, and heating again at night. That roller-coaster can confuse older systems. Set your fan to “Auto” so that the blower only runs when the system actively heats — this saves energy and prevents unnecessary wear. If you have a smart or programmable thermostat, create a schedule: slightly lower set-point while you’re out, bump it when you’re home. Ensure the thermostat isn’t placed near a cold draft or hot sunlight — location still matters. 4. Seal the Gaps: Small Leaks (Big Impact) Even mild fall nights can expose insulation and air-leak issues. Inspect around doors and windows for drafts and add weather-stripping if needed. Verify attic access panels or crawl-space vents are properly sealed for the season. Walk into each room that always feels colder — it may signal leaky ducts or imbalanced airflow that’s easier to rectify now than during full-wind-chill winter. Why Terrace Heating & Air Is Your Fall HVAC Partner Local to Charleston, we know how Lowcountry weather behaves — including those “almost cold” days that still demand efficient heating. Full-service team: whether you have a heat pump, furnace, or hybrid system, we handle installation, maintenance, and repairs. Trusted since 1993: We’ve helped Charleston homeowners keep comfort high and costs low through seasons. Fall in Charleston isn’t just a “heater test” moment — it’s a chance to optimize comfort before the true cooler streak comes. By switching to heating mode now, managing airflow and humidity, scheduling your thermostat smartly, and sealing gaps, you’ll set your home up for easier, more efficient comfort. If you’d like help verifying your system’s readiness or want to schedule a fall inspection , call Terrace Heating & Air at 843-762-3639 . Let’s make sure your home is ready for whatever the season brings.

As fall settles into the Lowcountry, mornings are cooler, evenings are crisp, and the air conditioning finally gets a well-earned break. But before you flip your system to “heat” and forget about it, it’s worth taking a few simple steps to make sure your heat pump is running at peak efficiency for the months ahead. Here in Charleston, we rely on our heat pumps year-round — for both cooling and heating — and that means a little seasonal attention goes a long way toward lower bills and better comfort. Switch Modes Smoothly Your heat pump works differently than a traditional furnace. When it transitions from cooling to heating, it’s normal to hear a few new sounds or feel slightly cooler air from the vents at first. However, if your system struggles to reach temperature or runs constantly, that’s a sign it could use a tune-up. Before the first truly chilly week arrives, switch your thermostat to “heat” and let the system run for 10–15 minutes to make sure everything transitions smoothly. Adjust Your Thermostat Settings for the Season Fall is a perfect time to rethink thermostat habits: Set a comfortable base temperature — around 68°F when you’re home and awake. Use a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust when you’re asleep or away. Avoid setting the temperature too high too fast; gradual changes prevent your system from switching into less-efficient “auxiliary heat” mode. These small adjustments can reduce energy use significantly without sacrificing comfort. Clear Around Your Outdoor Unit Falling leaves, pine needles, and yard debris can collect around your outdoor unit, restricting airflow. Take a few minutes to: Trim back vegetation within two feet of the unit Gently rinse away dirt or debris with a garden hose Check for signs of damage or corrosion after hurricane season Good airflow helps your system exchange heat efficiently — a key factor in keeping energy costs low. Check Insulation and Weatherstripping Even in our mild Charleston winters, poor insulation can make your system work harder than it should. Inspect: Weatherstripping around doors and windows Attic insulation, especially above living spaces Drafts near baseboards or crawlspaces A few quick fixes (like new door seals or outlet gaskets) can keep warm air inside — and your heat pump from cycling on and off too often. Schedule a Fall Maintenance Check Your heat pump works double duty all year long, so professional maintenance twice a year is best. A fall tune-up ensures: Heating coils and defrost cycles are working properly Refrigerant levels are balanced Electrical connections are tight Backup heat strips (if you have them) are tested before you need them A well-maintained system can save you up to 25% on energy costs — and avoid the stress of a cold-morning breakdown. Charleston’s fall and winter may not bring snow, but our heat pumps still earn their keep. A little preparation now can mean steady comfort and lower utility bills all season long. Whether you need a quick system check, thermostat upgrade, or help improving your home’s energy efficiency, Terrace Heating & Air is here to help you stay cozy without waste. 📞 Call us today at (843) 762-3639 or schedule your fall service online to get ahead before the real chill arrives.