HVAC Technology
HVAC Technology | Heating and Air Conditioning | Charleston
Charleston’s salty breezes and sudden cold snaps demand comfort systems that can keep up, and that’s exactly what HEP delivers. Our team blends decades of local know-how with cutting-edge HVAC tech to create seamless, energy-smart solutions for heating and air conditioning. From whisper-quiet heat pumps that tame summer humidity to high-efficiency furnaces ready for rare Lowcountry freezes, we customize every installation so you feel perfect in every season—without the sticker shock on your utility bill.
When you invite HEP into your home, you get more than premium equipment; you get a partner who stands behind every thermostat tap and vent whisper. Our NATE-certified technicians arrive on time, explain options in plain English, and back their work with rock-solid guarantees. Whether you need same-day repairs, an indoor air quality upgrade, or a whole-home system designed from scratch, count on HEP to turn Charleston’s unpredictable climate into year-round livability. Call today and experience HVAC service that’s as warm—or as cool—as you want it to be.
FAQs
What type of HVAC system performs best in Charleston’s hot, humid climate?
For most homes in the Lowcountry, a high-efficiency heat pump or a traditional split air-conditioning system paired with a variable-speed air handler is ideal. Heat pumps now operate efficiently down to the mid-30s °F, which covers nearly all of Charleston’s mild winter days, while still delivering strong cooling in the summer. Variable-speed compressors and air handlers remove more moisture than single-stage systems—crucial for controlling indoor humidity when outdoor dew points routinely exceed 70°F. Coastal residents should also choose equipment with corrosion-resistant coils and cabinets to withstand salty air.
How often should my heating and cooling equipment be serviced?
Professional maintenance is recommended twice a year in Charleston—once in early spring before the cooling season and again in fall before the brief heating season. A spring tune-up should include cleaning condenser coils, checking refrigerant charge, inspecting the blower wheel, and testing electrical components. The fall visit focuses on heat-pump defrost controls or gas-furnace safety checks, thermostat calibration, and airflow verification. Regular service keeps energy bills 10-15 % lower, extends equipment life, maintains manufacturer warranties, and reduces the risk of mid-summer breakdowns.
What is SEER2, and why is it important when buying a new AC in South Carolina?
SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2) is the updated federal efficiency metric that replaced SEER on January 1, 2023. It reflects changes in test conditions that better simulate real-world static pressure in ductwork. In the Southeast region—including South Carolina—the minimum standard is now 14.3 SEER2 (equivalent to roughly 15.2 SEER). Choosing equipment with a higher SEER2 rating lowers annual cooling costs and may qualify you for utility rebates. For Charleston’s long cooling season, every point increase in SEER2 can save 3-5 % in electricity use.
Are heat pumps really effective for heating as well as cooling in Charleston?
Yes. Modern inverter-driven heat pumps provide efficient heating down to about 30 °F without auxiliary heat. Charleston’s average winter low is 43 °F, and temperatures below freezing are infrequent, so a heat pump can handle most heating demand by itself. Dual-fuel configurations—pairing a heat pump with a high-efficiency gas furnace—are an option for homeowners who want gas backup for the rare cold snap. During summer, the same heat pump operates in reverse, removing heat and humidity from your home just like a standard air conditioner.
How can I improve indoor air quality in our humid, coastal environment?
Start with proper humidity control: keep indoor relative humidity between 45 % and 55 % by ensuring your system is correctly sized, using variable-speed equipment, and adding a whole-home dehumidifier if necessary. Upgrade to a 4-inch media filter (MERV 11–13) or an electronic air cleaner to capture pollen, mold spores, and coastal dust. UV germicidal lamps installed near the evaporator coil inhibit bio-growth on wet surfaces. Finally, have your ductwork pressure-tested and sealed; leaky return ducts can draw attic or crawl-space air laden with moisture and contaminants into the conditioned space.
Are there rebates or tax credits for installing high-efficiency HVAC systems in Charleston?
Yes. Dominion Energy and Santee Cooper both offer rebates—typically $200–$500—when you install ENERGY STAR–certified heat pumps or air conditioners that exceed the minimum SEER2 criteria. The federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C) allows homeowners to claim 30 % of the installed cost (up to $2,000 per year) for qualifying heat pumps and up to $600 for advanced air conditioners or furnaces. Additional incentives may be available through the South Carolina Energy Office for low-income households or via manufacturer seasonal promotions. Your HVAC contractor can provide current forms and ensure your new system meets the eligibility requirements.