Getting Your AC Installation In Before The End Of Summertime Temps: 6 Things To Know For Lowcountry Families

With Labor Day behind us and fall coming on quickly, there are an endless amount of things on a Lowcountry family’s to-do list.

From school back in sessions and all of the events that come along with that, to planning fall activities, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed this time of year.

However, many of those activities can be hampered if your air conditioning system isn’t running properly or is on its last legs.

Whether your system outright breaks down or it’s struggling to keep up with the temperature and humidity outside, it’s something that will weigh on your mind until you have a solution in place.

With all of the things most parents have on their mind this time of year, having to worry about your air conditioning or heat pump system failing is not one that you’ll want to carry into the fall.

While cooler temps may be on the way, getting yourself equipped with a new system before they get here has several advantages.

Perhaps the biggest pro for getting a new system into place is getting it off of your extensive to-do list. As mentioned above, many family to-do lists are clogged up this time of year, and it’s one of the easier items to get done (more on that below).

Another big advantage to getting a new system is that you can lower your level of worry over if your system is going to make it to the fall. 

Stressing over your system – on top of many other stressors this time of year – can take its toll when elevated temperatures stick around for an extended period of time. 

While replacing your system can be a large project, with the help of a friendly, helpful local HVAC company it can be something you can easily drop off of your list before the fall.

Before jumping straight in, here are some important things you can consider before installing your new system in the Lowcountry this year.

Consider A Second Opinion

We mentioned this in a previous post, but it can sometimes be helpful to get a second opinion on your HVAC installation estimates.

Equipment and HVAC companies can vary quite a bit depending on many different factors, but having another local team take another look at your particular situation is a great way you get the right system at the right price for your Lowcountry family.

Consider Heat Pump Options

If you have a standalone central air conditioning system, it could be a great time to consider making a switch to a heat pump system.

We explained a bit more in detail about how heat pump systems work in a previous post, but heat pumps have the ability to keep your home cool in the summer and keep your home warm in the fall and winter. 

Heat pumps are a great option here in the Charleston area, as temperatures generally stay in the range where they operate most effectively, without the need for supporting heating systems, in many cases.

Ductless Mini Splits

Another option that many local homeowners have been moving to are ductless heating and air systems.

As the name suggests, ductless mini split systems keep separate areas of your home cool without the need to push conditioned air through an air duct system. 

Typically installed on the wall, these systems are connected to a separate outdoor unit through specialized tubing, which allow you to control comfort settings in individual spaces in your home.

These are great options for homeowners that don’t have existing ductwork for different areas of their homes, or for external buildings like garages or pool houses.

Ductwork Improvements 

If you’re looking at a more traditional central air or heat pump replacement, you may consider getting some attention on your home’s air duct system.

Installing a new system is always an upgrade, but your experience may be degraded if you have issues with your home’s air ducts.

These may be issues you can put in short-term fixes for, but ultimately if you want the best performance from your new system, a new air duct system may be something to consider.

Signing Up For Preventative Maintenance 

As with any large appliance or device, your home’s HVAC system needs proper care and maintenance to get the most out of it – and max out its lifespan.

After your system installation wraps up, be sure to ask about preventative maintenance plans. 

Maintenance plans can vary depending on the HVAC company, but most typically include a few annual visits – one before summer and one before winter – to catch any potential issues before they start.

Get The Right Local Contractor On Your Side

As with any contractor you work with in the Lowcountry, you want to find yourself a contractor you and your family feel comfortable with.

When you install a new HVAC system, you’re not just investing in comfort – you’re also investing in the right team to make sure your family stays comfortable, year-round.

Not all HVAC companies are the same, so make sure to check their reviews and recent work – as well as their local story, to make sure you’re getting the experience your family deserves in the Lowcountry.