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.