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As summer in Wilmington winds down, your air conditioner has probably been working hard to keep you comfortable through the coastal heat and humidity. Before you switch over to heating season, taking time to give your AC a little TLC can make a big difference in its performance and longevity. At Fulford Heating & Cooling, we’ve been helping local homeowners keep their systems running smoothly for over 50 years — and we know that a few simple maintenance steps now can prevent costly repairs later. Here are five end-of-summer AC maintenance tasks you shouldn’t skip: 1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filter Summer pollen, dust, and pet dander can clog your air filter fast — especially in humid climates like Wilmington. A dirty filter forces your AC to work harder, reduces airflow, and can lead to higher energy bills. Swapping in a fresh filter (or cleaning a reusable one) helps maintain good air quality and keeps your system running efficiently. 2. Check and Clean the Outdoor Unit Over the summer, leaves, grass clippings, and coastal debris can accumulate around your outdoor condenser unit. This buildup can block airflow and strain your system. Clear away any debris, trim back plants at least 2 feet, and gently rinse the fins with a garden hose to keep everything breathing freely. 3. Inspect Your Drain Line Your AC removes moisture from the air, and that water exits through a condensate drain line. Over time, algae or debris can clog this line, leading to water leaks and even indoor water damage. Flush the line with a mixture of warm water and vinegar to keep it clear. 4. Check Thermostat Settings As the seasons change, it’s a good time to make sure your thermostat is set for maximum comfort and efficiency. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, adjust the schedule to fit your fall routine. A quick battery check is also a good idea if your thermostat uses them. 5. Schedule a Professional End-of-Season Tune-Up Even if your AC seems to be running fine, a professional inspection can catch small issues before they become big repairs. Our certified technicians at Fulford Heating & Cooling will check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical connections, test system performance, and make sure your unit is ready for next summer — or the switch to heating. Why End-of-Summer Maintenance Matters By taking care of your AC now, you can: Prevent costly breakdowns next cooling season Improve energy efficiency (and lower your bills) Extend the life of your system Maintain better indoor air quality Need AC maintenance in Wilmington, NC? Contact Fulford Heating & Cooling today to schedule your end-of-summer tune-up. We’ll make sure your system is clean, efficient, and ready for whatever North Carolina weather brings next. 📞 Call us at 910-842-6589 🌐 Schedule service today

Living on the coast of North Carolina comes with its perks—beaches, breezes, and beautiful sunsets. But if you’ve lived in Wilmington long enough, you know the coastal humidity can be brutal—especially during the height of summer. For your air conditioning system, that humid air isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s a real challenge. At Fulford Heating & Cooling, we’ve been helping homeowners in Southeastern NC stay cool for over 45 years. Here are our top tips to keep your AC running efficiently and reliably in our unique climate. 1. Change Your Air Filters More Frequently High humidity levels mean your HVAC system is working harder to filter out moisture, dust, and allergens. In our area, you should check your filter every 30 days during the summer months and replace it as needed—especially if you have pets or live near the Intracoastal Waterway. 2. Schedule Regular AC Maintenance Humidity puts extra strain on your cooling system. With preventative maintenance, our certified technicians can: Clean your coils and condensate drain line (critical in humid climates) Check refrigerant levels Inspect for corrosion or salt damage (common in coastal regions) A seasonal tune-up keeps your AC running smoothly and helps you avoid mid-summer breakdowns. 3. Use a Dehumidifier to Support Your AC While your AC naturally removes some moisture from the air, it isn’t designed to handle Wilmington’s thick summer humidity on its own. Installing a whole-home dehumidifier can: Lighten the load on your AC Improve indoor air quality Prevent mold and mildew Bonus: Your home will feel cooler at a higher thermostat setting, which saves on energy bills. 4. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear Your outdoor condenser needs plenty of airflow to work efficiently. Make sure to: Clear away grass clippings, sand, and salt buildup Trim back bushes and plants at least 2 feet Rinse the unit with a garden hose (lightly!) to remove salt spray Humidity and salt air can corrode your unit over time, so a little cleaning goes a long way. 5. Seal Leaky Ducts and Windows Humidity loves to find its way inside. Poorly sealed ductwork or drafty windows can let moisture in and cooled air out. Fulford’s techs can inspect your ducts and recommend sealing or insulation upgrades to help reduce that unwanted humidity and improve efficiency. 6. Know the Signs of a Struggling AC Humidity can mask the early warning signs of AC trouble. Watch for:  Weak airflow Excess condensation or water leaks A system running constantly but not cooling well Musty or damp odors Don’t wait until it stops working—call our team for a quick inspection. Local Expertise You Can Count On We know Wilmington’s climate inside and out—because we live here too. At Fulford Heating & Cooling, our goal is to keep your family cool, comfortable, and confident in your HVAC system—even on the most humid days of summer. If your AC is struggling with humidity, or you want a professional tune-up, schedule an appointment with our expert team today.

As Wilmington’s temperatures rise and humidity creeps in, your air conditioner becomes your best friend. But if your AC has been struggling to keep up, making strange noises, or driving your energy bill through the roof, it might be trying to tell you something: it’s time for a replacement. At Fulford Heating & Cooling, we understand that replacing your air conditioner is a big decision. Below, we break down the top signs it might be time to make the switch—and how investing in a new system can actually save you money and stress in the long run. 1. Your AC Is 10–15 Years Old Most air conditioners have a lifespan of around 10–15 years. If yours is approaching (or past) that range, it's only a matter of time before repairs become more frequent and less effective. Newer systems are also far more energy-efficient, offering better performance and lower utility costs. Wilmington tip: Coastal air can wear out HVAC components faster than in drier climates. Routine maintenance helps, but replacement may come sooner. 2. Your Energy Bills Are Climbing Have you noticed your electric bill creeping up—despite no major changes in usage? An older or inefficient AC system could be working overtime to keep your home cool, using more energy than necessary. Replacing it with a high-efficiency model can reduce monthly costs and improve comfort. 3. Frequent Repairs Are Adding Up An occasional repair isn’t unusual, but if you’ve had to call for service multiple times in the past couple of years, it may be time to stop sinking money into temporary fixes. In many cases, the cost of repeated repairs can surpass the price of a brand-new system. 4. Your Home Isn't Cooling Evenly Are some rooms too hot while others are freezing? Inconsistent temperatures often indicate a system that’s too small, outdated, or failing. A properly sized, modern AC system will deliver balanced cooling throughout your home. 5. Strange Sounds or Odors Unusual banging, rattling, or musty smells can signal serious issues within the system—like worn-out parts, mold, or electrical problems. These issues are more than just annoying; they can also be health hazards or signs your system is on its last leg. 6. You’re Still Using R-22 Refrigerant If your unit was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it still uses R-22 (Freon) , which is no longer being manufactured. If your system develops a refrigerant leak, repairs can be costly—or even impossible. New AC systems use more eco-friendly and readily available refrigerants like R-410A. 7. You Want Smart Features & Better Air Quality Modern HVAC systems offer more than just cooling. From Wi-Fi thermostats to built-in air purification and humidity control , upgrading your AC can improve your home’s comfort, air quality, and convenience. Let Fulford Help You Make the Right Choice At Fulford Heating & Cooling, we’ve proudly served Wilmington, NC and surrounding coastal communities since 1973. Whether you’re unsure about your current system’s condition or ready to explore your options, our experienced team can provide honest recommendations and expert installation. We offer: Free estimates on system replacements High-efficiency Lennox and Trane units Financing options Year-round service and support Ready to Upgrade? If your air conditioner is showing any of these signs, don’t wait until the heat becomes unbearable. Contact Fulford Heating & Cooling today at (910) 842-6589 or schedule a consultation online to find out if it’s time to replace your AC system. Let’s keep your home cool, comfortable, and efficient—no matter how hot Wilmington gets.

Living in Wilmington means enjoying beautiful beaches, salty sea breezes, and mild winters—but it also means dealing with a unique coastal climate that can take a toll on your home’s HVAC system. At Fulford Heating & Cooling, we know how important regular HVAC maintenance is for keeping your system running efficiently and reliably in our region. Coastal Climate Challenges for HVAC Systems Wilmington’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean brings high humidity, salty air, and fluctuating temperatures, especially during summer. These conditions can cause faster wear and tear on HVAC components, leading to corrosion, reduced performance, and higher energy bills. Here are just a few reasons why routine HVAC maintenance is essential in Wilmington: 1. Combat Salt Air Corrosion Salt from the ocean can settle on your outdoor HVAC unit, accelerating rust and corrosion. Without regular cleaning and inspection, coils and other metal parts may break down prematurely—resulting in costly repairs or even full system replacement. 2. Improve Energy Efficiency Humidity and heat can cause your HVAC system to work overtime. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, saving you money on your monthly utility bills. Our maintenance visits include checking refrigerant levels, cleaning coils, and tightening electrical connections to ensure peak performance. 3. Protect Indoor Air Quality Coastal humidity can also lead to mold and mildew growth inside ducts and around your HVAC equipment. Routine filter changes and cleanings help maintain good indoor air quality and reduce allergy symptoms—especially during Wilmington’s damp summer months. 4. Extend the Life of Your System Regular maintenance helps spot small problems before they become major breakdowns. Our experienced technicians at Fulford Heating & Cooling are trained to identify early signs of wear and address them promptly, extending the life of your HVAC system and protecting your investment. 5. Stay Comfortable Year-Round Whether it’s sweltering in July or cool in January, Wilmington weather can change quickly. Regular tune-ups ensure your system is ready to deliver consistent comfort, no matter the season. Trust Fulford Heating & Cooling for Local Expertise As a trusted HVAC contractor in Wilmington, NC, Fulford Heating & Cooling has served our coastal community for decades. We understand the unique challenges of maintaining HVAC systems in this environment and offer customized maintenance plans to keep your home comfortable all year long. Check out our Air Conditioning service page to learn more about how we can keep your Wilmington, NC home cool and comfortable all summer long. Schedule Your HVAC Maintenance Today Don’t wait for a breakdown to think about your HVAC system. Call Fulford Heating & Cooling today to schedule a maintenance visit or ask about our service agreements designed specifically for Wilmington homeowners. 📞 (910) 842-6589

As the chill of winter fades away and Wilmington welcomes the warmth of spring, it’s important to ensure your HVAC system is ready for the seasonal transition. Spring weather in coastal North Carolina brings fluctuating temperatures, increased humidity, and pollen-filled air, all of which can impact your home’s comfort and air quality. Here are some key steps to prepare your HVAC system for the spring season. 1. Replace Your Air Filters Springtime pollen and allergens can quickly clog your HVAC filter, reducing efficiency and affecting indoor air quality. Replacing your air filter every 1-3 months ensures optimal airflow and helps trap allergens before they circulate in your home. 2. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up A spring maintenance check by Fulford Heating & Cooling can keep your system running efficiently. Our technicians will inspect your system, clean vital components, check refrigerant levels, and identify any potential issues before they become costly repairs. 3. Clean Your Outdoor Unit Over the winter, debris like leaves, dirt, and twigs can accumulate around your outdoor HVAC unit. Clearing away obstructions and gently cleaning the unit ensures proper airflow and efficiency. Keep at least two feet of clearance around the unit for optimal performance. 4. Test Your Thermostat With warmer days and cooler nights, it’s a great time to test your thermostat and update its settings. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better energy efficiency and enhanced comfort control. 5. Check Your Ductwork Leaks or blockages in your duct system can lead to uneven cooling and wasted energy. A professional duct inspection ensures your system is delivering conditioned air effectively throughout your home. 6. Monitor Humidity Levels Spring in Wilmington often brings high humidity, which can make your home feel warmer than it actually is. Using a dehumidifier or ensuring your HVAC system has humidity control can improve comfort and prevent mold growth. 7. Test Your Air Conditioner Early Don’t wait until the first hot day to turn on your AC. Test it early in the season to ensure it’s cooling properly. If you notice weak airflow, strange noises, or inefficient cooling, it’s best to schedule a repair before temperatures rise. Prepare Your Home for a Comfortable Spring By following these simple HVAC maintenance tips, you can enjoy a comfortable and efficient home as spring arrives in Wilmington. If you need professional HVAC services, Fulford Heating & Cooling is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your spring HVAC tune-up and ensure your system is ready for the season ahead! Call Fulford Heating & Cooling at 910-842-6589 or visit our contact us page to schedule an appointment today!