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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. You don't want to spend more than necessary on temperature control in your Athens home, so it's important to make sure all systems are functioning properly.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Athens' top HVAC companies to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
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:
If your HVAC system is having issues or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can evaluate your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance will differ depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,843-$4,699 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,735-$6,881 | |
Heat Pump | $2,892-$29,469 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $242-$403 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$161 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,210-$3,630 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$202 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $387-$968 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states need to 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 on a state-by-state basis.
HVAC contractors in Alabama are required to be licensed by the Board of Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors. Contractors must hold a surety bond and must participate in annual continuing education. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you know the details of your project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are done to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new brand, estimated installation time, features, model, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, be sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the greatest protection within your budget.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally 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 can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Athens, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Athens, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may have financing options through a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: