When the Temperature Has to Be Absolutely Just Right

Charleston AC & Heating FAQs

Helping You Make the Right Decisions for Your Home & Family

Home comfort is critically important. You want to be certain that you are getting the right systems and making the right calls to benefit your home and family, and our team can assist you. We have gathered some of the most common questions our Charleston AC installation technicians have received over our 30+ years of service and answered them below.

When should I replace my system?

It can be tricky to know whether you need to repair your system or to do a complete overhaul. On average, an air conditioning unit can last 12-15 years, while boilers and furnaces have a lifespan of about 15-20 years. It is important to remember, however, that if your unit requires a great deal of repair, or more usage than average, replacing the system may be a good idea.

What brand of equipment should I choose?

When selecting a brand, it is extremely important to be sure that parts and equipment are readily available. The local Heil distributorship maintains millions of dollars in parts and equipment in nearby North Charleston. Many brands, although heavily advertised, may not have parts readily available to you which could result in days or weeks of YOU WAITING for repair.

What is tonnage?

Definition of Tonnage: Tonnage is based on BTU’s. One BTU is equivalent to burning one wooden match stick. One ton of cooling equals 12000 BTU’s. Tonnage is the amount of energy required to heat or cool your space.

Do I need a Carbon Monoxide Detector?

For safety purposes, all homes with a gas appliance should have a carbon monoxide detector.

What does SEER refer to?

SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, measures how energy efficient your system is. These ratings allow you to compare the operating cost of different heating and AC units.

What does a maintenance agreement do? Do I need one?

We recommend these very highly. Most manufacturer warranties instruct that your unit be serviced at least once a year; these agreements are a simple way to insure your home against sudden system failure. Left unchecked, heating and AC systems tend to break down when you use them most – and when you need them most. Preventative maintenance is the cheapest and easiest way to protect against costly repairs or replacements that could have been avoided. With our agreements, you will get twice yearly maintenance calls, discounted parts, and more.

How long does the average system installation take?

Standard installations or replacements of a new HVAC unit can generally be completed in a day or less, though larger than average systems, such as for commercial customers, may take longer.