Compare the highest-rated hvac professionals in Charleston, South Carolina. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A premier, full-service HVAC contractor specializing in high-performance systems designed for Charleston's humid subtropical climate. They are experts in installing and servicing corrosion-resistant units and whole-home dehumidification systems. Known for their meticulous work on both new construction and historic home retrofits.
A family-owned and operated HVAC company with a strong reputation for reliability and customer service. They offer comprehensive installation, maintenance, and repair services, with a particular focus on high-efficiency heat pumps and furnaces. Their maintenance plans are highly regarded for preventing costly breakdowns during the peak summer heat.
Specializes in energy-efficient HVAC solutions and smart home integration. They are a leading provider of modern systems like variable-speed air handlers and Wi-Fi thermostats, helping homeowners in Charleston reduce energy bills while improving comfort. They are also certified to handle complex ductwork design for homes with unique layouts.
The Charleston HVAC market is characterized by high demand due to the city's hot, humid summers and mild but occasionally chilly winters. The coastal salt air presents a significant challenge, accelerating corrosion on outdoor units, making regular maintenance and corrosion-resistant installations critical. The prevalence of historic homes also creates a niche for contractors skilled in retrofitting modern, efficient systems into older structures without compromising aesthetics. Demand peaks during the summer months, making 24/7 emergency service a key differentiator for top providers. The market is competitive, with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and humidity control.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Charleston regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about hvac services in Charleston, South Carolina.
For a full system replacement in Charleston, homeowners can expect to pay between $6,000 and $12,000+, depending on system size, efficiency rating, and home specifics. The high humidity and long cooling season here make proper sizing and installation critical, and investing in a higher SEER-rated unit (16+) can offer significant long-term savings on energy bills. Always get multiple detailed quotes that include removal of the old unit, new ductwork modifications if needed, and a labor warranty.
The ideal time is during the shoulder seasons—early spring (March-April) or late fall (October-November)—before the extreme summer heat and humidity or occasional winter cold snap hit. Scheduling during these periods ensures your system is ready for peak demand and provides better availability and potential promotional pricing from local HVAC companies, who are often booked solid during summer breakdowns.
While South Carolina has no statewide HVAC licensing, reputable Charleston-area contractors must be licensed and insured by the local municipality (e.g., City of Charleston). Additionally, check for current rebates from Dominion Energy South Carolina for upgrading to high-efficiency systems, which can provide substantial savings. Some local ordinances may also have requirements for handling refrigerant and disposing of old equipment.
Look for a locally established company with strong references, proper licensing, and North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification, which is crucial for handling our specific high-humidity climate challenges. Verify they perform a Manual J load calculation to correctly size your system for your home's architecture and the local coastal climate, and ensure they offer a clear, written warranty on both parts and labor.
Charleston's extreme coastal humidity often overwhelms standard air conditioners that cycle on and off too quickly, cooling the air without adequately removing moisture. Solutions include having a technician check your system's refrigerant charge and airflow, installing a variable-speed or properly sized unit for longer, more effective dehumidifying cycles, or adding a whole-home dehumidifier specifically designed for our southern climate.