Commonly Asked Air Conditioning Questions & Answers

If you’ve noticed that your heat pump is blowing cold air instead of keeping your Charleston home warm, you’re not alone. Many homeowners experience this issue, especially during the cooler months. Before you panic, there are several possible reasons why your heat pump isn’t performing as expected. Terrace Heating & Air is here to help you troubleshoot the problem and get your home back to a comfortable temperature. 1. Your Heat Pump Is in Defrost Mode Heat pumps work by transferring heat from the outside air into your home. When temperatures drop, frost can build up on the outdoor unit, triggering the system’s defrost mode. During this cycle, your heat pump may temporarily blow cooler air inside while it works to melt the ice outside. If this happens, give it a few minutes to complete the cycle and return to normal heating mode. 2. The Thermostat Is Set Incorrectly Sometimes, the issue is as simple as an incorrect thermostat setting. Double-check that your thermostat is set to “heat” rather than “cool” or “auto.” Also, make sure the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. If your thermostat has malfunctioned, it may need recalibration or replacement. 3. Refrigerant Levels Are Low Your heat pump relies on refrigerant to transfer heat effectively. If there’s a refrigerant leak or the levels are too low, the system won’t be able to generate warm air efficiently. A professional HVAC technician from Terrace Heating & Air can check for leaks and recharge the refrigerant if needed. 4. Dirty Air Filters or Coils A clogged air filter or dirty coils can restrict airflow, making it harder for your heat pump to distribute warm air throughout your home. Regular maintenance, including changing air filters and cleaning the indoor and outdoor coils, can help prevent this issue. 5. Outdoor Temperature Is Too Low Heat pumps are most efficient in moderate temperatures, but they can struggle when the temperature drops too low. If Charleston experiences an unusually cold spell, your heat pump may need extra support from a supplemental heating system, like electric resistance heating or a furnace. 6. Ductwork Issues Leaky or poorly insulated ductwork can cause heat loss before the warm air even reaches your living space. If some rooms feel colder than others, it may be time to have your ducts inspected and sealed to improve efficiency. 7. Mechanical Issues or Component Failure If none of the above issues seem to be the culprit, there could be a mechanical problem with the heat pump itself. A faulty compressor, reversing valve, or another internal component may need repair or replacement. Professional diagnosis is essential to pinpoint and fix these issues effectively. When to Call a Professional While some troubleshooting steps, like checking your thermostat and changing filters, can be done yourself, other problems require expert attention. If your heat pump continues to blow cold air, makes strange noises, or isn’t heating your home properly, it’s time to call in the professionals at Terrace Heating & Air. Our experienced technicians will diagnose the issue and provide the necessary repairs to restore your comfort. Schedule Your Heat Pump Service Today Don’t let a malfunctioning heat pump leave you in the cold. Contact Terrace Heating & Air today for expert heat pump repair and maintenance services in Charleston, SC. Call us or schedule an appointment online to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long!

Winter in Charleston may not bring the freezing temperatures of northern states, but staying warm during the colder months can still be a challenge — and it can come with higher energy bills. At Terrace Heating & Air, we understand the importance of keeping your home comfortable without breaking the bank. Here are some practical tips to save money on heating bills this winter while staying cozy in Charleston's unique climate. 1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up Your heating system works hard to keep you comfortable, and regular maintenance ensures it runs efficiently. A professional tune-up can identify and fix potential issues, improve efficiency, and prevent costly breakdowns. At Terrace Heating & Air, we’re here to keep your HVAC system in peak condition. 2. Seal Drafts and Insulate Drafty windows and doors can let warm air escape, forcing your heater to work overtime. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal gaps around windows and doors. Adding insulation to your attic or crawl space can also prevent heat loss and lower your energy bills. 3. Use a Programmable Thermostat A programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day. Lower the temperature while you’re asleep or away from home to save energy. Smart thermostats even let you adjust settings remotely, giving you more control over your heating costs. Check out some of the smart thermostats we carry and install today! 4. Take Advantage of Charleston’s Sunlight Charleston’s sunny winter days can help naturally heat your home. Open your curtains or blinds during the day to let the sunlight in, and close them at night to keep the warmth inside. 5. Replace or Clean Air Filters Dirty air filters reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency, making it work harder to heat your home. Replace or clean your filters every 1-3 months to ensure proper airflow and system performance. 6. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer! Switch them to rotate clockwise during the winter at a low speed. This helps push warm air that rises back down into the living space, improving comfort and reducing heating costs. 7. Bundle Up and Use Space Heaters Strategically Instead of heating the entire house, focus on the rooms you use most. A space heater can keep small areas warm and comfortable without raising the thermostat for your whole home. Remember to use space heaters safely and follow manufacturer guidelines. 8. Upgrade Your Heating System If your heating system is more than 10-15 years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Modern systems are significantly more energy-efficient, which can lead to long-term savings. Our team at Terrace Heating & Air can help you find the right energy-efficient system for your home. 9. Take Advantage of Energy Audits An energy audit can identify areas where your home is losing heat and suggest improvements. Our experts can evaluate your home’s heating efficiency and recommend cost-saving solutions tailored to Charleston’s climate. Conclusion Saving money on heating bills this winter doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort. By following these tips and relying on Terrace Heating & Air for professional HVAC services, you can keep your home warm and your energy costs under control. If you’re ready to schedule a tune-up or explore energy-efficient heating solutions, contact us today! Let us help you stay cozy and save money this winter in Charleston.

Living in Charleston, SC, means enjoying mild winters compared to other parts of the country. However, when temperatures drop, having a reliable heating system is essential for keeping your home comfortable. At Terrace Heating & Air, we’ve helped countless Charleston homeowners address common heating problems, and we’re here to help you do the same. Below, we’ll explore some of the most frequent heating issues in Charleston homes and how to prevent them. 1. Uneven Heating Charleston’s older homes often struggle with uneven heating, leaving some rooms feeling too warm while others remain chilly. This issue can stem from poor insulation, leaky ducts, or an improperly sized HVAC system. Prevention Tips: Schedule a professional energy audit to identify insulation or ductwork issues. Seal and insulate your ducts. Ensure your HVAC system is properly sized for your home. 2. Short Cycling Short cycling occurs when your heating system turns on and off frequently without completing a full heating cycle. This not only makes your home less comfortable but also increases energy bills and wear on your system. Prevention Tips: Replace dirty or clogged air filters regularly. Schedule annual maintenance to ensure your system runs efficiently. Consult a professional if your system is oversized or undersized for your home. 3. Pilot Light or Ignition Problems Gas furnaces can experience issues with their pilot light or electronic ignition. If these components malfunction, your furnace may struggle to produce heat. Prevention Tips: Keep the area around your furnace clean and free of debris. Schedule regular inspections to identify and resolve ignition issues early. Contact a professional if you notice persistent problems with your pilot light or ignition system. 4. Thermostat Malfunctions A malfunctioning thermostat can cause your heating system to run inefficiently, leading to inconsistent temperatures throughout your home. Prevention Tips: Upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control. Replace batteries in your thermostat regularly. Have a technician inspect and calibrate your thermostat during routine maintenance. 5. Dirty or Clogged Filters One of the most common heating issues is dirty or clogged air filters. This can restrict airflow, reduce efficiency, and strain your system. Prevention Tips: Check and replace your air filters every 1-3 months. Use high-quality filters suited to your system’s requirements. 6. Wear and Tear on Components Over time, components of your heating system can wear down, leading to breakdowns or reduced performance. This is especially common in systems that are not regularly maintained. Prevention Tips: Schedule annual maintenance to identify and address worn components. Address minor issues promptly to avoid larger, costlier repairs. 7. Ductwork Leaks Leaky ducts can cause heated air to escape before it reaches your living spaces, making your system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Prevention Tips: Have your ductwork inspected for leaks or damage. Seal leaks with professional-grade materials. Insulate ducts in unconditioned spaces. 8. Heat Pump Problems Heat pumps are popular in Charleston due to their efficiency, but they can experience issues like frozen coils or refrigerant leaks, especially during colder months. Prevention Tips: Keep the outdoor unit clear of debris and ice. Schedule regular maintenance to check for refrigerant leaks and clean coils. Ensure proper airflow by maintaining clean filters and clear vents. Trust Terrace Heating & Air for Your Heating Needs No one wants to deal with heating issues during Charleston’s chilly winter nights. By staying proactive and scheduling regular maintenance, you can prevent many common problems and keep your system running smoothly. At Terrace Heating & Air, we’re dedicated to helping Charleston homeowners stay warm and comfortable year-round. If you’re experiencing heating issues or want to schedule preventative maintenance, contact us today!

As the cool weather of winter begins to creep in, now is the perfect time to make sure your HVAC system is ready to handle the seasonal change. With the harsh winter chill right around the corner, the last thing you want is for your heating system to break down when you need it most. Before the temperatures drop, take the time to inspect your HVAC system for warning signs that it may need a repair. Here are some of the most common indicators that your system may require attention: 1. Unusual Noises If your heating system starts making strange noises such as banging, grinding, or squealing, it’s a sign that something is wrong. These sounds could indicate loose or worn parts, a failing motor, or issues with your ductwork. Don’t ignore these noises, as they often get worse over time and could lead to a complete system failure. 2. Inconsistent Heating Does it feel like certain rooms in your home are colder than others? If your system is only heating part of your home or providing uneven warmth, it could be an issue with your thermostat, ductwork, or even a malfunctioning component within the HVAC unit itself. A professional technician can diagnose the cause and restore consistent comfort throughout your space. 3. Higher Energy Bills If you notice a sudden increase in your heating bills without an increase in usage, it may be due to an inefficient system. An HVAC system that is struggling to function properly has to work harder, using more energy to maintain the desired temperature. This is a sign that something in the system may need repair, such as a clogged filter, malfunctioning thermostat, or aging components. 4. Weak Airflow A noticeable drop in airflow from your vents is another sign that your HVAC system may need repairs. Weak airflow can occur for a variety of reasons, such as dirty filters, clogged ducts, or a malfunctioning blower motor. When the airflow is weak, your home won’t heat properly, and your system will have to work overtime to meet the desired temperature, leading to higher energy bills and further damage. 5. Frequent Cycling If your system is frequently turning on and off, it may be a sign of an underlying issue, such as an electrical problem, a faulty thermostat, or dirty filters. Frequent cycling can also cause unnecessary wear and tear on your system, shortening its lifespan and leading to expensive repairs down the road. 6. System Won’t Turn On This one seems obvious, but it’s always worth mentioning. If your HVAC system refuses to start up or doesn’t respond to thermostat settings, you may have a more serious issue at hand. Whether it’s a broken ignition system, electrical failure, or faulty thermostat, don’t delay in contacting a professional to get it fixed before the winter cold sets in. 7. Unpleasant Odors Strange odors emanating from your HVAC system can be a sign of an issue. A musty or moldy smell could point to excess moisture in your system, which is common in areas like Charleston, SC, where humidity levels are high. If you notice a burning smell, it could indicate something is overheating, and that could be a fire hazard. 8. System Age Finally, if your HVAC system is nearing the end of its lifespan (typically 15-20 years), it may be more prone to breakdowns, inefficiency, and costly repairs. If you’ve noticed several small problems or it’s simply been a while since the last servicing, it may be time to consider a replacement before the system gives out during the coldest months of the year. Call Terrace Heating & Air for HVAC Repairs in Charleston, SC It’s always better to catch a problem early before it becomes a major issue. At Terrace Heating & Air, we’re committed to keeping your HVAC system running smoothly all winter long. Our team of certified technicians can provide expert diagnostics and repairs to ensure your heating system is ready to keep you warm and comfortable all season. Contact us today to schedule a checkup and make sure your HVAC system is prepared for the winter chill!

When winter arrives in Charleston, SC, the chilly air might prompt you to consider the best way to heat your home. With Charleston’s relatively mild winter climate, you don’t need the same level of heating as folks up north, but you still want a reliable and efficient system to stay comfortable. Two popular heating options are heat pumps and furnaces—but which one is the best choice for Charleston’s mild winters? At Terrace Heating & Air, we’re here to help you compare these options to find what’s right for your home. Understanding Heat Pumps Heat pumps work by transferring heat instead of generating it. In winter, they pull heat from the outdoor air and bring it inside. Because Charleston rarely experiences extreme cold, heat pumps can often find enough warmth in the air to keep your home cozy. They’re highly efficient, especially in mild climates, making them a popular choice in the Southeast. Benefits of a Heat Pump in Charleston: Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps can be three to four times more efficient than traditional electric heating, as they use electricity mainly to move heat, not create it. Dual Functionality: A heat pump can also cool your home in the summer, making it a year-round solution. Environmentally Friendly: Heat pumps produce fewer carbon emissions than fossil fuel-burning systems, making them a more eco-friendly choice. The Pros and Cons of Furnaces Furnaces are a more traditional heating solution, typically using natural gas, oil, or electricity to generate heat. For colder climates, furnaces are often preferred because they can produce higher levels of warmth more quickly. In Charleston, however, the intense heat output of a furnace might be overkill on milder winter days. Benefits of a Furnace in Charleston: Fast Heat Output: When temperatures drop quickly, a furnace can heat your home faster than a heat pump. Warmer Indoor Air: Furnaces deliver higher temperatures at the vent, creating a “warmer” feel compared to heat pumps. Longevity: With proper maintenance, gas furnaces typically have a longer lifespan than most heat pumps, often lasting 20+ years. Challenges of a Furnace in Charleston: Higher Energy Use: Furnaces, particularly electric ones, can be less efficient than heat pumps, leading to higher energy costs. No Cooling Capability: A furnace is only for heating, so you would still need an air conditioning unit to stay cool in the summer. Choosing the Right Option for Your Home Given Charleston’s mild winters, a heat pump might be the better choice for energy efficiency, cost savings, and year-round functionality. Heat pumps can handle Charleston’s winter lows and can be a more economical and eco-friendly solution. However, if you prefer faster heating or already have a furnace that’s in good working order, you may decide to stick with it. If you’re unsure about which system would best meet your needs, our experienced team at Terrace Heating & Air can help. We offer personalized consultations to recommend the ideal heating system for Charleston’s unique climate, your budget, and your comfort preferences. Whether you choose a heat pump or a furnace, we’ll make sure your home stays warm, efficient, and ready for whatever winter brings. Ready to Upgrade or Install a New Heating System? Contact Terrace Heating & Air! Our team at Terrace Heating & Air is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the best heating solution for your Charleston home. Check out our products page to learn more about some of the energy efficient heat pumps and furnaces we carry and install here at Terrace Heating & Air in Charleston, SC!

As the summer heat starts to fade and the cooler breezes of fall make their way to Charleston, now is the perfect time to ensure your HVAC system is ready for the change in seasons. At Terrace Heating & Air, we know how important it is for Charleston homeowners to transition smoothly from cooling to heating without any interruptions. With some simple maintenance steps, you can make sure your system performs efficiently all season long, keeping your home comfortable while also saving on energy costs. 1. Change Your Air Filters The transition to fall is an ideal time to replace your HVAC filters. After working overtime during the hot summer months, filters can become clogged with dust, pollen, and debris. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder than it needs to. Swapping out your filters ensures better air quality and allows your HVAC system to function efficiently. 2. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up Regular HVAC maintenance is the key to prolonging the life of your system, especially after a busy summer cooling season. A professional tune-up from Terrace Heating & Air will include inspecting the system for potential issues, lubricating moving parts, tightening electrical connections, and testing overall performance. This preventive measure will help avoid unexpected breakdowns and ensure your system is prepared for the colder weather ahead. 3. Check Your Thermostat Settings With cooler temperatures approaching, it’s time to adjust your thermostat settings for fall. If you haven’t already, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices allow you to set temperature schedules that align with your daily routine, helping to reduce energy usage and save on your utility bills. 4. Inspect Your Outdoor Unit Charleston’s humid and coastal climate can cause wear and tear on your HVAC’s outdoor unit. Take a moment to check the outdoor condenser for any signs of damage, debris, or overgrown vegetation. Clear away any leaves, dirt, or branches that may have gathered around the unit, as this can block airflow and reduce efficiency. 5. Seal Air Leaks Fall is also a great time to check your home for drafts or leaks around doors, windows, and vents. Sealing these gaps with weather stripping or caulking will prevent warm air from escaping and keep your HVAC system from working harder to maintain a consistent temperature. 6. Test Your Heating System Before the first cold snap hits Charleston, it’s wise to test your heating system. Turn on your furnace or heat pump and let it run for a bit to ensure it’s operating properly. If you notice any unusual noises, smells, or lack of warmth, give Terrace Heating & Air a call to address the issue before the cooler temperatures arrive. 7. Check Your Ductwork Over the summer, your ducts may accumulate dust, debris, or even mold due to Charleston’s humid climate. Clean ducts improve airflow and indoor air quality while helping your HVAC system run more efficiently. If you suspect your ductwork needs cleaning or repairs, contact our team to perform a thorough inspection. By taking a few simple steps to prepare your HVAC system for Charleston’s fall weather, you can ensure your home remains cozy and efficient throughout the season. At Terrace Heating & Air, we’re here to help with all your HVAC maintenance needs. Whether you need a seasonal tune-up, a new thermostat, or repairs, our experienced team is just a call away. Don’t wait until the cold sets in—schedule your fall maintenance with us today! Visit our contact page to schedule your next heating and air conditioning maintenance service.

Charleston’s warm, humid summers and mild winters present a unique challenge for HVAC systems. These fluctuating conditions make regular maintenance crucial for keeping your heating and cooling system running efficiently year-round. At Terrace Heating & Air, we understand the importance of HVAC care in Charleston’s climate, and we’re here to explain how regular maintenance can help save you money in the long run. Improve Energy Efficiency The high humidity and coastal air of Charleston can cause wear and tear on HVAC systems faster than in other areas. Regular maintenance ensures that your system operates at peak efficiency, which means it uses less energy to maintain your desired temperature. Clean coils, properly sealed ducts, and well-maintained parts reduce the strain on your system, lowering your monthly energy bills. Prevent Costly Repairs Regular maintenance allows HVAC technicians to catch small issues before they become big problems. Neglecting your system can lead to breakdowns, which often happen at the worst possible times—like in the middle of a sweltering Charleston summer. By scheduling routine maintenance, you can address minor repairs early on, preventing expensive emergency repairs or system replacements. Extend the Lifespan of Your System Your HVAC system is a significant investment, and regular maintenance helps protect that investment. Without proper care, Charleston’s climate can shorten the lifespan of your unit, forcing you to replace it sooner than expected. Regular tune-ups keep your system running smoothly, ensuring it lasts for many years and saving you the cost of premature replacements. Improve Indoor Air Quality The coastal environment can introduce salt, sand, and excess moisture into your HVAC system, negatively affecting your home’s indoor air quality. Regular maintenance includes cleaning and replacing filters, ensuring that your system continues to provide fresh, clean air to your home. This not only benefits your health but also prevents the buildup of debris that could lead to system malfunctions. Avoid High Seasonal Demand Costs In Charleston, HVAC contractors experience a surge in service calls during peak seasons—especially in the heat of summer. By scheduling regular maintenance during the off-season, you can avoid the higher costs and longer wait times associated with emergency repairs during peak demand. At Terrace Heating & Air, we emphasize the importance of regular HVAC maintenance to keep your system running efficiently, improve indoor air quality, and save you money in Charleston’s unique climate. By staying proactive with your HVAC care, you can enjoy lower energy bills, fewer unexpected repairs, and a longer-lasting system. Contact us today to schedule your next maintenance appointment and start reaping the benefits of a well-maintained HVAC system or check out our maintenance service page to learn more.

As summer heats up in Charleston, SC, having a reliable air conditioning system is essential for staying comfortable. With so many options available, how do you choose the right AC system for your home? At Terrace Heating & Air, we’re here to guide you through the process. Assess Your Home’s Needs Before selecting an AC unit, consider the size of your home, the number of rooms, and your cooling needs. A system that’s too small won’t cool effectively, while one that’s too large will waste energy and money. Conduct a Load Calculation A professional load calculation considers factors like square footage, insulation, and window size. This ensures you choose a system that fits your home perfectly. Terrace Heating & Air offers load calculations to help you determine what size air conditioning unit your Charleston, SC home is in need of. Explore Your Options There are several types of AC systems available. Here’s a quick overview: Central Air Conditioning: Ideal for larger homes, central air systems use ducts to circulate cool air. They provide consistent temperatures throughout the house. Ductless Mini-Splits: These are perfect for homes without ductwork. Mini-splits offer zoned cooling, allowing you to control temperatures in individual rooms. Window Units: Best for smaller spaces or single rooms, window units are affordable and easy to install but less efficient for whole-house cooling. Portable Air Conditioners: These are versatile and can be moved from room to room, but they’re not as efficient as built-in systems. Consider Energy Efficiency Look for units with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. Higher SEER ratings mean better energy efficiency, which translates to lower utility bills. Think About Advanced Features Modern AC systems come with a range of features to enhance comfort and convenience: Smart Thermostats: Allow you to control your system remotely and optimize energy use. Variable Speed Compressors: Adjust cooling power to match your needs, improving efficiency. Dehumidification Modes: Essential for Charleston’s humid climate, helping maintain a comfortable indoor environment. Plan for Maintenance Regular maintenance is key to keeping your AC system running efficiently. Consider signing up for a maintenance plan to ensure your unit stays in top condition. Why Choose Terrace Heating & Air? At Terrace Heating & Air, we have years of experience helping Charleston residents find the perfect AC solutions. Our team of experts is ready to assist you with choosing, installing, and maintaining your air conditioning system. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your home stays cool all summer long! By following these tips and working with professionals, you can choose an AC system that meets your needs and keeps your home comfortable throughout Charleston’s hottest months. Check out our products page to learn more about some of the energy efficient air conditioners we carry and install here at Terrace Heating & Air.

As summer approaches in Charleston, the rising temperatures and humidity can make your home unbearably hot without a well-functioning HVAC system. At Terrace Heating & Air, we understand the importance of staying cool and comfortable during the hottest months. Here’s a comprehensive guide to preparing your HVAC system for Charleston's summer heat. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up The first step in getting your HVAC system ready for summer is scheduling a professional tune-up. Our skilled technicians at Terrace Heating & Air will inspect, clean, and fine-tune your system to ensure it’s operating at peak efficiency. During the tune-up, we’ll check for any potential issues that could lead to breakdowns during the hottest days of the year. Replace or Clean Air Filters Air filters play a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality and system efficiency. Over time, filters can become clogged with dust, pollen, and other debris, reducing airflow and forcing your system to work harder. Replace or clean your air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and the type of filter you have. Clean filters ensure better air circulation and improved system performance. Clean the Outdoor Unit Your HVAC system’s outdoor unit can accumulate dirt, leaves, and other debris, which can obstruct airflow and reduce efficiency. Make sure to clear away any debris from around the unit and gently clean the fins and coils. Turn off the power to the unit before performing any cleaning to avoid injury. Regular maintenance of the outdoor unit helps keep your system running smoothly. Check Thermostat Settings Ensure your thermostat is set to the correct mode for cooling and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices can help you optimize your cooling schedule, saving energy and money by reducing usage when you’re not home. A well-programmed thermostat can make a significant difference in your comfort and energy bills. By following these steps, you can prepare your HVAC system to handle Charleston’s summer heat efficiently. At Terrace Heating & Air, we’re here to help with all your HVAC needs. Contact us today to schedule a tune-up or learn more about our services. Stay cool and comfortable this summer with a reliable HVAC system you can trust! Check out our air conditioning service page to learn more about how we can keep your Charleston, SC home cool and comfortable this summer.