(843) 873-0371AC Repair in Walterboro, SC
As a homeowner in the Charleston, South Carolina area, you are well aware of how crucial it is to have a properly operating air conditioning system, especially during those hot summer days. When we say hot, we mean it - summers in South Carolina heat up quickly with high humidity and average high temperatures near 90°F across most of the state. During the hot months of the year, average temperatures range from the upper 60s in the Upstate to the mid-70s in the Lowcountry, but maximum temperatures can reach over 100 degrees.
On the hottest of hot days, having a reliable AC unit to cool you down is non-negotiable. When the weather heats up in The Palmetto State, and your AC is on the fritz, it's best to act quick and contact an HVAC repair company that can help.
At J.W. Long Mechanical, we provide you with quick, effective solutions for:
- 01Air Conditioning Repair
- 02Air Conditioning Installation
- 03HVAC Installation
- 04Dirty AC Filters
- 05Low AC Refrigeran
- 06AC Leak Repair
- 07AC Coil Problems
- 08Malfunctioning Thermostats
- 09AC Blowing Hot Air
- 10More
- Trust J.W. Long Mechanical for Quality AC Repair and Installation
- AC Repair in Walterboro, SC
- My AC Isn't Working. What's Going On?
- Your Air Conditioner Isn't Turning On
- When is the Right Time for New AC Installation in Walterboro, SC?
- Think About the Age of Your Air Conditioner
- Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Your Air Conditioning Unit
- Take an Inventory of Your Air Conditioner
- AC Repair vs. Air Conditioning Installation in Walterboro, SC
- An HVAC Company in Walterboro, SC You Can Trust
My AC Isn't Working. What's Going On?
You don't have to be a graduate from LaTrice D Ferguson Healthcare Institute near Walterboro, SC, to know when something is wrong with your air conditioning. Being aware of common AC unit problems helps prevent breakdowns. Who wants to be stuck inside during a hot summer in Walterboro, SC without AC? Keep your eyes and ears peeled for these common issues:
01Your Air Conditioner Isn't Turning On
Waking up in the morning to find that the air conditioner won't turn on is incredibly frustrating. No matter how low you set the thermostat, the AC still refuses to engage.
Cause
At times, this issue arises due to a tripped circuit breaker. Additional causes may include a defective thermostat or loose wiring.
Solution
Some AC problems can be fixed without any training. This is not one of those issues. Do not attempt to do any wiring work on your own. Call a respected HVAC company like J.W. Long Mechanical for AC repair in Walterboro, SC. Our techs have specialized equipment that can help diagnose the issue and advanced training to perform fixes.
02Your AC Won't Stop Running
This problem is a complete 180 from the entry above. It's completely normal for your air conditioner to work harder during hot weather, but it should still turn off at regular intervals. Addressing an AC that won't shut off is essential for protecting its key components and keeping your energy bills in check.
Cause
This problem can stem from a variety of sources and is very common. You might be dealing with a faulty thermostat, a malfunctioning compressor, clogged air filters, or even issues with electrical components.
Solution
To start, try switching off the thermostat fan to check if that turns off the air conditioner. If it doesn't, reach out to our HVAC company. Our experts are skilled at quickly identifying issues and often handle repairs on the first visit.
03Your AC Unit Blows Out Hot Air
Why is your air conditioning unit blowing out warm air instead of cool? The last thing you want is to feel even hotter while you're already sweating inside your home. Unfortunately, this issue can happen even during the peak of summer.
Cause
Warm air could indicate a dirty air filter, blockages in the ducts, or debris that is leading to the compressor overheating. It's also possible that your refrigerant levels are low.
Solution
Change your air filters every one to two months to avoid clogs, and make sure to have your ducts cleaned at least once a year. Before you top off the refrigerant in your AC units, always have an AC repair specialist check for leaks. At J.W. Long Mechanical, our HVAC techs are very familiar with this task and can actually help save you money in the long run.
04HVAC System Leaks
Homeowners often find it challenging to detect refrigerant leaks since they typically occur within the coolant lines. However, if you notice brightly colored stains near your AC unit, it could indicate trouble. While some condensation outside the air conditioner is normal, excessive moisture may suggest a water leak.
Cause
Over time, the lines and connections in an AC system can deteriorate, which often results in refrigerant leaks. Water leaks are generally caused by blocked drainage pipes and malfunctioning condensate pumps.
Solution
If you spot a refrigerant leak, make sure to turn off the unit and reach out to our HVAC company in Walterboro, SC as soon as possible. Low refrigerant levels can lead to serious damage to the compressor, which is one of the costliest parts to replace. Thankfully, regular maintenance checks can uncover these issues, and our certified technicians can recharge the refrigerant as needed.
05Constant On and Off Cycles
This issue is commonly referred to as short cycling. Instead of running through a complete cooling cycle, the air conditioner repeatedly starts and stops. This can be a significant problem that may lead to compressor damage.
Cause
Sometimes, the issue can be as straightforward as dirty air filters or a thermostat that needs recalibrating. It's also possible that your air conditioner is simply too powerful for the size of your home.
Solution
The first step to solving this problem is to call an AC repair company to come out and look at your HVAC system. At J.W. Long, our team will diagnose your problem and provide cost-effective options for you to consider. If your AC system isn't the right fit for your home, new AC installation may be in store - especially for long-term savings.
When is the Right Time for New AC Installation in Walterboro, SC?
At J.W. Long Mechanical, we get questions from homeowners and business owners every day about their HVAC units. One of the most common questions we get revolves around whether it's smarter to keep an older AC system or to have a new AC unit installed. As is the case with most things in life, it depends on your unique situation. To help answer that question, we've come up with a few of the biggest signs that it's time to call our HVAC company for air conditioning installation.
Think About the Age of Your Air Conditioner
Older air conditioners tend to be less efficient than the latest models on the market. According to Energy Star, if your air conditioner is over 10 years old, it's worth considering an upgrade. If it's more than 15 years old, you should definitely think about replacing it, as this typically marks the average lifespan of most cooling systems.
How Long Do AC Systems Usually Last?
Even BedonLucas House in Walterboro, SC will degrade over time, and the same can be said for air conditioners. If you're a homeowner who has recently bought a new air conditioning unit or faced AC issues in the past, you might wonder, “What's the typical lifespan of an air conditioner?” It's a valid concern, considering the significant investment involved.
While the answer can vary, choosing a reputable company like J.W. Long Mechanical that installs reliable HVAC brands provides peace of mind. These units are rigorously tested for durability. Back to the question: Generally, an air conditioner can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance, but there are several factors that affect that time span.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Your Air Conditioning Unit
Just like you need to keep your car in good shape with regular tune-ups, your HVAC system also requires consistent maintenance. Some people believe that after the unit stops working for the first time and the warranty has expired, it's time to invest in a new one. Others may choose to pour money into repairs-even when the costs add up-to extend the life of their system by a few more years. The choice you make can greatly impact how long your AC unit will last.
Outside of maintenance, other factors that affect air conditioning lifespan include:
- Level of Installation Quality
- Air Quality (salt and other corrosives that degrade machinery)
- Frequency of Use
- Wear and Tear
- Climate Factors (extreme humidity or freezing temps)
Try the $5,000 Rule of Thumb
Some experts suggest using the $5,000 rule to help decide if it's time to replace your cooling unit. To apply this rule, simply multiply the age of your air conditioner by the cost of repairs. If the total exceeds $5,000, it's wise to think about getting a new unit. If it's less, repairing the existing one may be your best bet.
For example, if your air conditioner is 8 years old and the repair estimate is around $400, that brings you to a total of $3,200. In that case, you should reach out to J.W. Long for AC repair. On the other hand, if those repairs are estimated at $700, the total jumps to $5,600, which means it's time to consider replacing the air conditioner with one of our expert installation services.
Take an Inventory of Your Air Conditioner
If you're struggling with the repair vs replace debate, try making a checklist of how your HVAC system is performing - especially in the summer when you're using air conditioning. Try checking for the following:
- Make sure the temp in your home stays consistent without much fluctuation.
- Make sure every room in your home is cooled evenly
- Listen for strange sounds when your AC unit starts up.
- Check your power bills and make sure you don't see drastic spikes in energy use.
Life tends to move swiftly, and before you know it, your air conditioner might be struggling to keep up. It's essential to take a moment to check in on your unit and see if it's performing as well as it always has or if there might be some issues that need attention.
If you discover that your air conditioner isn't in optimal shape, it's a good idea to have an HVAC professional come by for an inspection. They can identify any simple fixes that could solve the problem or highlight more significant concerns that you should start considering.
Find Out if You're Using R-22
Older air conditioners typically rely on R-22 refrigerant, which has been linked to significant environmental harm. If your air conditioner uses this type of refrigerant, it may be time to think about upgrading to an eco-friendly model.
Additionally, the cost of R-22 has skyrocketed due to its decreased availability, as production of this refrigerant has ceased. While you might still find R-22 for repairs on older units, all new air conditioning systems are designed to use the newer R410-A refrigerant, making them a more practical choice in the long run.
AC Repair vs. Air Conditioning Installation in Walterboro, SC
Which is best: AC repair or new AC installation? The answer to that question will change depending on your circumstances. Some of the most logical reasons to go with AC repair instead of having a new unit installed are:
- Age of AC Unit: If your air conditioner is less than 10 years old, it still has life.
- One-Off Repair: If an HVAC technician from J.W. Long suggests a repair for a one-off issue, there's really no need to replace your unit. If the issue starts to happen more frequently, you may want to change your mind.
- Great Deals and Financing: Before you start calculating the price of repairs, consider that J.W. Long Mechanical offers regular specials and financing for our services, which may make a repair far more feasible.
Here are a few of the biggest reasons to have a new AC unit installed instead of paying for perpetual repairs:
Efficiency
Forget about the system breaking down. Even before your old air conditioner quit on you, it was already racking up some shocking electricity bills. For an aging system, there's only so much regular maintenance can accomplish. Eventually, it might be time to consider a new system, especially when you weigh the benefits of energy efficiency.
Boost the Value of Your Home
Even if you're not considering selling your home at the moment, installing a new air conditioner can boost your property's value if you ever decide to sell. It might even be a key factor in securing a buyer rather than losing out on a sale.
The Right Price at the Right Time:
It's not just true for repairs-it's equally relevant when considering new air conditioning systems. At J.W. Long Mechanical, we often run specials on new AC installations and even offer financing that can help you stick to a budget. If the cost of repairing your current system is nearing the price of a new unit, don't hesitate to invest in a new air conditioner. You'll likely recoup the price difference through energy savings.
Quick Repairs
Get the Air You Need for the Life You Lead
The best AC Repair and Installation services offer expertise and service, 24/7 availability for urgent situations.
An HVAC Company in Walterboro, SC You Can Trust
At J. W. Long Mechanical Company, we've been providing heating and air conditioning services in South Carolina since 1950. Founded by J.W. Long and now led by Shannon Heber, our business is built on integrity, reliability, affordability, and quality work. We treat our customers like family and are passionate about exceptional service
The J.W. Long Difference
Our experienced team has earned a reputation for excellence, winning the Trane Distinguished Dealer Award 17 times and being recognized as an independent Trane Comfort Specialist™ Dealer. You can trust us for top-notch heating and cooling products installed with expertise that maximizes performance and value for your budget.
For reliable air conditioning service or repair, J.W. Long's skilled technicians quickly restore your system. Looking for a new unit? Our comfort consultants make AC installation easier than Sunday morning at Bear Cafe and Lounge on Main in Walterboro, SC. To make your life simpler and stress-free, we can provide a free assessment and design a system tailored to your needs and budget. We also provide indoor air quality products and dehumidification for your comfort on hot days.
If you're looking for an AC repair and installation expert with your best interests at heart, give our office a call today. It would be our pleasure to exceed your expectations.
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Latest News Near Walterboro, SC
Lawsuits: Walterboro stores sued for selling alcohol to teen before deadly crash
Anna Harrishttps://www.live5news.com/2026/01/26/lawsuits-walterboro-stores-sued-selling-alcohol-teen-before-deadly-crash/
COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) — Two Walterboro convenience stores and their owners are now facing legal action from two families who claim the alcohol the stores sold to a teen led to the death of their loved one.Hunter Williams, 19, is charged with felony DUI involving death and felony DUI causing great bodily harm. This accident in September 2024 took the life of Emma Lake, 9, and severely injured Lacy Wiggins, 10.He is also facing two additional charges of purchasing alcohol as a minor.Williams was denied bond du...
COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) — Two Walterboro convenience stores and their owners are now facing legal action from two families who claim the alcohol the stores sold to a teen led to the death of their loved one.
Hunter Williams, 19, is charged with felony DUI involving death and felony DUI causing great bodily harm. This accident in September 2024 took the life of Emma Lake, 9, and severely injured Lacy Wiggins, 10.
He is also facing two additional charges of purchasing alcohol as a minor.
Williams was denied bond during his original hearing in October 2024 and was denied bond again the following March. This came after a judge ruled that “nothing had changed,” even after he had a psychological evaluation.
The families have also filed a wrongful death suit.
Now, the two stores accused of selling Williams that alcohol are involved, after attorney Mark Tinsley filed civil suits against them on behalf of both families.
“People recognize when there’s a place in town that is known for the place where underage kids can buy alcohol,” Tinsley said. “...I would like to think that that is becoming a thing of the past. ... But unfortunately, they still exist.”
Tinsley says Sidney’s Road Convenience Store on Sidney’s Road and SV Mart #2 on North Jefferies Boulevard in Walterboro are two of those places.
“I hope they all get put out of business,” Tinsley said. “I don’t think there’s a fine steep enough. I don’t think that there’s monetary sanction high enough that anybody would trade places with the Lake family.”
The filing states the employees failed to verify his age and check his ID before selling the alcohol. It also claims the defendants “acted in accordance and as part of a corporate plan to knowingly sell alcohol to underage people.”
Tinsley says the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division was able to obtain video showing Williams in those stores purchasing the alcohol that night.
Emma Lake’s mother, Tamara Lake, says driving drunk is a choice.
“As a result of Emma’s death, I really hope that all business owners can take from this how important it is to follow all of the rules and obey laws in regards to selling minors alcohol,” Lake said. “It’s very, very important to do it the right way to avoid more tragedy.”
The intersection where Pleasant Grove Road meets Jefferies Highway, where the deadly crash happened, has also been dedicated in Emma Lake’s name.
“It helps me to know that Emma can still make a difference,” Lake said. “That all of this was not for nothing. And that Emma can have a purpose. And make her death meaningful instead of just a terrible, terrible tragedy to have to live through.”
Defense attorney Scott Bischoff, who represents Williams, did not want to comment at this time.
Defense attorney Michael Trask, who represents some of the other defendants, also did not want to comment. Another attorney, Cordes Kennedy, did not respond.
“This is mainly about making the world a better place,” Tinsley said. “A safer place.”
Williams remains in custody at the Colleton County Detention Center.
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