Expert Advice On Improving Your Home

10 Best HVAC Companies in North Charleston, SC

Get matched with a top local pro.
Join over 640 homeowners that have gotten a free quote in the past week.

Written By Bradford Cuthrell

Last Updated February 2024

According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. With the cost of living in North Charleston, you're probably eager to reduce your energy bills.

Our list of North Charleston's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.

Top 10 Best HVAC Companies in North Charleston

Morelli Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.

Morelli Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. Logo

Our Rating

User Rating

Write a Review
2470 Faber Rd, North Charleston, SC 29405 (843) 554-8600 morelliair.com

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Inspection
Ductless
Ac repair
Maintenance
Geothermal heating
Ac installation
Emergency services
Indoor air quality

AC Heating and Air Conditioning Services

AC Heating and Air Conditioning Services Logo

Our Rating

User Rating

Write a Review
1943 Belgrade Ave #1, Charleston, SC 29407 (843) 277-9928 achvac.com

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Ductless
Indoor air quality
Ac repair
Ac installation
Maintenance
Emergency services

All Star Heating & Air

All Star Heating & Air Logo

Our Rating

User Rating

Write a Review
114 Bob White Ln, Summerville, SC 29485 (843) 376-6829 hvacrepaircharleston.com

Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Services Offered

Indoor air quality
Ac repair
Furnace repair
Ac installation
Maintenance

TemperaturePro Charleston

TemperaturePro Charleston Logo

Our Rating

User Rating

Write a Review
3516 S Live Oak Dr, Moncks Corner, SC 29461 (843) 603-8210 temperatureprocharleston.com

Prompt service delivery

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Services Offered

Ductless
Ventilation
Ac installation
Emergency services
Indoor air quality
Maintenance
Furnace installation
Ac repair
Duct cleaning
Inspection

Terrace Heating & Air

Terrace Heating & Air Logo

Our Rating

User Rating

Write a Review
1828 Elsey Dr, Charleston, SC 29407 (843) 762-3639 terraceair.com

Informative resources

Free quote

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Duct cleaning
Indoor air quality
Ductless
Maintenance
Inspection

M&B Heating and Air

M&B Heating and Air Logo

Our Rating

User Rating

Write a Review
1906 Belgrade Ave, Charleston, SC 29407 (843) 628-1775 myattandbates.com

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Services Offered

Ac repair
Maintenance
Furnace repair
Ac installation
Furnace installation
Indoor air quality

Ferguson HVAC Supply

Ferguson HVAC Supply Logo

Our Rating

User Rating

Write a Review
4301 Dorchester Rd Bldg 17, North Charleston, SC 29405 (843) 566-0901 ferguson.com

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Furnace installation
Ac repair
Maintenance
Ac installation
Indoor air quality
Ductless
Smart home integration
Ventilation
Filtration

Pardee Service Experts

Pardee Service Experts Logo

Our Rating

User Rating

Write a Review
1952 Belgrade Ave, Charleston, SC 29407 (843) 766-9001 serviceexperts.com

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Services Offered

Smart home integration
Inspection
Maintenance
Geothermal heating
Indoor air quality

Pace's Comfort Cooling LLC

Pace's Comfort Cooling LLC Logo

Our Rating

User Rating

Write a Review
202 Loblolly Cir, Ladson, SC 29456 (843) 270-9136 pacescomfortcooling.com

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Ventilation
Ac repair
Maintenance

Brady Heating & Air

Brady Heating & Air Logo

Our Rating

User Rating

Write a Review
1317 N Main St #261, Summerville, SC 29483 (843) 597-2009 brady-hvac.com

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Emergency services
Maintenance
Ac repair
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on hvac companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's not working properly or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

  • Odd noises when turning on
  • Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
  • Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
  • Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
  • Higher than normal energy bills
  • Rust, corrosion, or cracking
  • Refrigerant leaks
  • An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in North Charleston

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

  • Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have internal units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by providing the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer hot and cool air between your home and outside. They don't generate their own heat or AC, so they function best in mild climates and may not be as effective during North Charleston's hot summers.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work best in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, commonly located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different maintenance services. Prices for common services are as follows:

HVAC Unit Type Cost
Split $1,920-$4,894
Hybrid Split $3,890-$7,167
Heat Pump $3,012-$30,694
Packaged Heating and Air $252-$420

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

  • Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outside areas of your system.
  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the winter allows passive solar heating to warm your home. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent some heat from getting inside. Doing both helps minimize the demand on your HVAC.
  • Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and condenser fan blades clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
  • Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get out of hand.

Service Cost
Filter Replacement $63-$168
Condensor Cleaning $1,260-$3,781
Thermostat Repair $84-$210
Ductwork Cleaning $403-$1,008

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.

In South Carolina, HVAC contractors must be licensed as mechanical contractors via the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Contractor's Licensing Board. Contractors can have multiple specialities, such as Electrical, Heating, Plumbing, Air Conditioning, or Refrigeration, depending on what's needed for a specific project. Contractors must have one year of work experience and pass an exam to be licensed. Individual cities or counties may have additional requirements. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, brand, and features. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the most protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in North Charleston, SC

You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.

Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.

You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.

Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.

For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In North Charleston, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.

For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In North Charleston, you'll likely need something on the higher end of this range. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.

Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.

There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:

  • Make sure your air ducts remain clean, and change or clean your air filters regularly.
  • Have regular inspections to take care of problems as they arise.
  • Keep your attic well-ventilated and make sure all doors and windows are well-sealed.
  • Install a smart thermostat. If you aren't able to purchase one, try to keep the temperature indoors as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable.
  • When it comes time to replace any part of your system, explore Energy Star-certified or other environmentally friendly options.

Other North Charleston, SC Home Services