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:
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:
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.
At times, this issue arises due to a tripped circuit breaker. Additional causes may include a defective thermostat or loose wiring.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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
The best AC Repair and Installation services offer expertise and service, 24/7 availability for urgent situations.
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
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.
Walterboro, SC (RestaurantNews.com) The South’s original slider spot is sliding back into South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Krystal, the fast-food icon known for its square sliders, crispy fries and crave-worthy comfort food, will open a new location at 1222 Bell Highway in Walterboro, marking its fifth location in the Palm...
Walterboro, SC (RestaurantNews.com) The South’s original slider spot is sliding back into South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Krystal, the fast-food icon known for its square sliders, crispy fries and crave-worthy comfort food, will open a new location at 1222 Bell Highway in Walterboro, marking its fifth location in the Palmetto State.
Doors will officially open in July, with the exact date to be announced. A family-friendly grand opening celebration will follow. Guests can expect the full Krystal experience, including signature small, square burgers – like Cheese Krystals, Double Krystals, Jumbo Chicken Tenders, Bacon & Cheese Krystals and the Smash’d & Stack’d Burger – plus Pups (hot dogs), Chiks (chicken sandwiches), breakfast options, value packs and combo meals. Both dine-in and drive-thru service will be available.
The Walterboro restaurant follows the successful December 2024 opening of Krystal’s Orangeburg location in partnership with Charlamagne Tha God, and marks the brand’s continued expansion across the state. It joins existing South Carolina restaurants in North Augusta, Aiken, Gaffney and Orangeburg.
“As we grow in South Carolina, our focus is on creating meaningful connections with our guests and our team,” said Amanda Hyde, Senior Vice President of Operations for Krystal. “That means more than great food. It’s about greeting guests by name, handing over every order with care and creating an environment where team members feel empowered to deliver true hospitality.”
Now Hiring: Join the Krystal Crew
Krystal is hosting an in-person hiring event on Wednesday, June 11, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the new Walterboro location. The team aims to hire 40 new employees for all shifts.
Applicants should bring a valid ID and Social Security number. No prior experience is required – just a passion for great food and service.
Founded in 1932, Krystal has remained a Southern staple for more than 90 years, evolving with the times while staying rooted in warm hospitality and craveable, familiar flavors.
For more information, visit Krystal.com.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Krystal Restaurants LLC is the original quick-service restaurant chain in the South. Krystal hamburgers have been served fresh and hot off the grill on the iconic square bun since 1932. The company proudly sticks to the classics, but they’ve never been afraid to innovate. Krystal has expanded to 12 states with nearly 300 restaurants and continues to deliver a one-of-a-kind taste experience through unique menu items offered at a great price. In 2023, USA Today readers named Krystal the “Best Late-Night Fast Food,” and in 2022, research and consulting firm Technomic ranked Krystal as one of the “Most Craveable Burgers.”
While South Carolina is well known for its beaches and large cities like Charleston that provide tons of activities and experiences, plenty of smaller regions are more than welcoming to visitors. From the northern reaches of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Coast and the Piedmont in between, plenty of activities and history are waiting to be found and discovered throughout this beautiful state.Walterboro The town...
While South Carolina is well known for its beaches and large cities like Charleston that provide tons of activities and experiences, plenty of smaller regions are more than welcoming to visitors. From the northern reaches of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Coast and the Piedmont in between, plenty of activities and history are waiting to be found and discovered throughout this beautiful state.
The town of Walterboro has no shortage of activities and history to discover. It's home to the Walterboro Wildlife Center and Sanctuary, the biggest estuarine sanctuary on the East Coast. Here, people can learn about the history of wildlife in the area, along with visiting the town's historic downtown. A self-guided tour is provided throughout the two historic districts, known as Historic Hickory Valley and the Walterboro Historic District.
Modern shopping and restaurants are also offered, like Barrel House Grille or Castillo's Pizzeria. Arts are also important, with The South Carolina Artisans Center housing folk arts and crafts from around the area, which is open free of charge.
Hartsville is known for Kalmia Gardens, a 35-acre botanical garden open to residents and visitors. Some of the plants on display include different kinds of camellias, tea olives, dogwood, and more. On the site is the house of Thomas E. Hart, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. Hartsville is very open with its assortment of parks for kids and adults, like Pride Park and Centennial Park, along with plenty of bike paths.
The town has repurposed old sites like the Hartsville Cotton Mill into the South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics, which helps drive education in the area. Local art and artifacts are found at the Black Creek Arts Center and Hartsville Museum. The museum was once a post office with a sculpture courtyard neighboring it.
Most Unique Towns In South CarolinaKnown for its lovely weather, sandy beaches, and refreshing natural activities, South Carolina is an amazing state filled with particular towns featuring amazing historical, cultural, and natural sights.
The friendly town of Landrum is near the start of the Blue Ridge Mountains and even close to the North Carolina Border. The nearby Chestnut Ridge Heritage Preserve is a must, with its hiking trails and 1,800 acres of woods to explore. Campbell's Covered Bridge is also well worth a visit, with the creek beneath a wonderful place to swim and splash. Landrum itself has taken plenty of care to keep its downtown pedestrian-oriented, making it both accessible and welcoming for both visitors and residents alike.
Plenty of antique shops like Landrum Eclectics, Savvy Scavenger Antique Mall & Marketplace, Expressions Florist & Antiques, and more are all around town, making any vintage collector or peruser welcome.
If any town should be known for its hospitality, it's Travelers Rest. The town gets its name from providing and caring for travelers coming from Greeneville through the nearby mountains up north. Travelers Rest still sells equipment for hiking and other outdoor activities through its many shops. Plenty of nearby hustle and bustle exists through places like the Copperhead Mountain Distillery, Beechwood Farms, and the Bunched Arrowhead Heritage Preserve, where the town shows hospitality to local wildlife.
Enjoy local food from Sidewall Pizza or Farmhouse Tacos, or visit a bar like Shortfield's. Even today, the US Route 276-N helps connect Greenville to the town and further into North Carolina through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Sullivan's Island is a suburb of the city of Charleston and is right near the entrance of the harbor. The 2.5-mile barrier island is known for its incredible beach getaways and its close-knit community. The Charleston International Airport serves the town, making travel to its beaches quite easy. The town holds a lot of significant history, dating back to the American Revolution with the Battle of Sullivan's Island.
While in the area, be sure to check out Fort Moultrie; it holds plenty of information about the strong military history of the town. The town lighthouse called the Charleston Light, guides ships in at night and has an interesting triangle structure. The beaches on Sullivan's Island are beautiful and untouched, making for the perfect summer vacation. Dining options abound for socializing with the locals, like Poe's Tavern or Dunleavy's Pub.
The charming town of Pendleton welcomes anyone to experience what they have to offer. The whole town and part of the surrounding area is a historic district and has a walking tour map available for anyone who wants to stroll around the many historic buildings dating back to the 18th century. Many of the houses and buildings are still intact, which is how it made it as a whole onto the National Register of Historic Places in 1970.
Buildings like the Bart Garrison Agricultural Museum of South Carolina teach people of all ages about southern farming and agricultural life through hands-on experience. Those who don't want to get their hands dirty can visit the Clemson Little Theatre, which hosts a series of plays. There are even golf courses like the Par 3, which makes use of the open space.
Edisto Beach is a tiny town perfect for vacationing, with only 1,000 permanent residents. According to their town website, it is one of the few family-oriented beaches on the coast of South Carolina. Edisto Beach State Park surrounds the town, which offers the longest system of handicapped-accessible hiking and biking trails in South Carolina.
The maritime forest is both breathtaking and accessible, along with perfect photo and birdwatching opportunities. There is a special educational zoo called the Edisto Island Serpentarium, which houses mainly reptiles.
Beaufort is the second-oldest town in South Carolina, behind Charleston, which was chartered several decades before. The town features tons of activities along with crowd-free beaches and plenty of hiking and bike trails. Kayak tours and rentals are available, along with camping opportunities at the Hunting Island State Park, with over 100 available campsites.
Other tours include biplane tours so that you can see the whole area, not just on the water but also from the air. Museums like Beaufort History or Beaufort Art Association Gallery show local art and plenty of centuries-old tales and history.
Colorful buildings surround the center of Abbeville, often called "The Square." It shares its architecture and color design with places like Savannah and Charleston. The underrated town has plenty of local restaurants like The Village Grill, Swartzentrubers Bakery, Maria's Mexican Restaurant, and more. The Abbeville Opera House sells out shows every year to thousands of people, to the point where it's South Carolina's Official State Theatre. Events run throughout the square all year round, which are hosted with carnival rides, food, and live music.
Last but not least are the number of local businesses and boutiques throughout the town, including places like Deason's Flower Shop, As We Grow Boutique, and many more, making Abbeville a colorful and welcoming stay for any visitor.
Lake City is well known for its color, not through architecture but by native-grown floral scapes and murals that line certain buildings. The Moore Farms Botanical Garden is an excellent place to view various floral displays and local plants. The art doesn't stop there, with art galleries like the TRAX Visual Arts Center and Jones-Carter Gallery supporting local artists. Sculptures around town can also be seen, usually signifying nature in the area.
Not only supporting art and a wonderful atmosphere, but tons of great food is also available at Slabs Wood Fired BBQ or Baker's Sweets Bistro and Bakery. Not to mention The Shrimper for all of your shrimp and seafood needs. The nearby Woods Bay State Park is great for a walk outside of the city.
Must-Visit Small Towns In South CarolinaSmall towns in South Carolina are quite well known, for both their ability to reel in visitors for historical significance and subtle tourism attractions.
The Palmetto state of South Carolina is known for its welcoming southern hospitality. Even if you are right on the border of North Carolina, there are still towns brimming with kind folks and atmosphere. The heavy focus on art and history preservation makes South Carolina a must for a lot of people, along with beaches lining the coast, making for an unforgettable trip.
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WALTERBORO, S.C. (WCSC) - A company is making a multimillion dollar investment in Colleton County to grow its South Carolina presence with a new distribution terminal.Heidelberg Materials, which supplies things like cement, aggregates, ready-mixed concrete, asphalt and other building materials to North American customers, will be making its mark on Walterboro with this project.The $7.3 million investment, which is expected to create eight new jobs, will go toward the construction of a 71-acre aggregates distribution terminal to...
WALTERBORO, S.C. (WCSC) - A company is making a multimillion dollar investment in Colleton County to grow its South Carolina presence with a new distribution terminal.
Heidelberg Materials, which supplies things like cement, aggregates, ready-mixed concrete, asphalt and other building materials to North American customers, will be making its mark on Walterboro with this project.
The $7.3 million investment, which is expected to create eight new jobs, will go toward the construction of a 71-acre aggregates distribution terminal to market crushed stone.
“With direct access to the Palmetto Railways Salkehatchie Subdivision rail line, the new operation will enhance the company’s Southeast distribution network,” a release stated.
“Our new rail distribution terminal in Colleton County will enable Heidelberg Materials to efficiently and more sustainably supply much-needed construction aggregates to this growing market,” Heidelberg Materials North America Southeast Region President Scott Dickson said. “The new aggregate depot will be complementary to our recent acquisition of Giant Cement. We are pleased to make this investment in the area and look forward to contributing to the continued growth and prosperity of the Lowcountry region of South Carolina.”
“We are proud that Heidelberg Materials continues to do business in South Carolina and invest in communities across our state. This announcement underscores the strength of South Carolina’s workforce and economic climate, and we congratulate Heidelberg Materials on this new operation in Colleton County,” Gov. Henry McMaster said.
The new center will be located at 1616 Red Bank Road in Walterboro.
Anyone interested in potential job opportunities can click here.
The terminal is expected to be operational and online by the end of the year.
Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.
Canady Solar LLC to invest in Colleton County$45 Million Investment will Produce 80 MW of ElectricityCanady Solar LLC, has announced the development of a proposed 800-acre solar power generating facility in Walterboro, S.C. The project represents a potential $45 million investment and would produce 80 MW of electricity.“Colleton County welcomes Canady Solar LLC, and we are pleased that our county has another clean energy resource,” said Colleton County Council Chairman Scott Biering....
$45 Million Investment will Produce 80 MW of Electricity
Canady Solar LLC, has announced the development of a proposed 800-acre solar power generating facility in Walterboro, S.C. The project represents a potential $45 million investment and would produce 80 MW of electricity.
“Colleton County welcomes Canady Solar LLC, and we are pleased that our county has another clean energy resource,” said Colleton County Council Chairman Scott Biering. “Colleton County is once again demonstrating that we advocate innovation in energy production and manufacturing.”
“We appreciate the investment that Canady Solar LLC is making in our community in bringing renewable, sustainable energy solutions and the advancements the investment represents in energy production,” said Colleton County Economic Alliance Chairman Lee Petrolawicz.
“Canady Solar LLC will be an asset to our industrial community and a great addition to the array of ‘green’ industries located in our region,” said SouthernCarolina Alliance Chairman Marty Sauls. “We look forward to working with Canady Solar in the coming years.”
The solar generation site is located on Mt. Carmel Road in Walterboro and encompasses 800 acres.
For more information on economic development in the region, visit www.southerncarolina.org.
OKATIE, S.C. – To better serve individuals diagnosed with cancer in southern Beaufort County, Beaufort Memorial has added a board-certified family nurse practitioner to the medical oncology team at Beaufort Memorial Oncology Specialists.
Lindsay Gamble, FNP-BC, will bring her diverse background in palliative and critical care and infusion therapy to the Beaufort Memorial cancer treatment team. At the New River Cancer Center in Okatie, she will see medical and hematology patients before, during and after treatment; manage chemotherapy infusions and education; recommend, facilitate and interpret laboratory testing; and order imaging.
“Lindsay will be an excellent addition to the team at Beaufort Memorial Oncology Specialists,” said Beaufort Memorial President and CEO Russell Baxley. “Her wide-ranging experience and personal connection to patients and their care will allow patients receiving cancer treatment at the practice to feel heard, valued and well cared for.”
Gamble’s commitment to patient-first, personalized cancer care developed over her years of nursing experience in Tennessee, California, Virginia and Louisiana, with her most recent experience in both emergency medicine and infusion therapy in Beaufort County. Her passion for the medical oncology field grew in intensity after supporting multiple family members through their cancer treatment journey – including her father.
Gamble graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration at the University of Memphis in Memphis, Tenn., in 2017. She’s bringing her knowledge and drive for compassionate cancer care to Beaufort Memorial from her most recent position at Palmetto Infusion Services in Okatie and is dedicated to providing high-quality care to patients receiving treatment for all types of cancer while exploring all of their options.
“I believe in listening, empathy and support, recognizing the profound impact of a cancer diagnosis on patients and their families,” Gamble said. “My mission is to provide not just care, but hope, dignity and resilience.”
At the New River Cancer Center, Gamble joins Drs. Eric Turner and Michael Porrazzo, oncology nurse navigator Catherine Healy, RN, BSN, and oncology social workers Kianna Brown, LMSW, and Samantha Bruns, LBSW.
Beaufort Memorial cancer programs focus on prevention, screening and treatment of a wide variety of cancers. Patients have access to medical oncology, radiation oncology, cancer surgeries and lab, imaging, infusion and breast health services at both the New River Cancer Center in Okatie, as well as the Keyserling Cancer Center in Beaufort.
Both Cancer Centers offer education and support services, oncology-certified nurses, dietitians, social workers and more to meet patient needs.
To schedule an appointment with Gamble or any of the Beaufort Memorial Oncology Specialists practice providers, call 843-522-7350.