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10 Best HVAC
in Athens, AL

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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.

Top 10 Best HVAC Companies in Athens

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All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc Logo

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104 Dominion Cir, Huntsville, AL 35811 (256) 801-4701 insideweatherguy.com

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Furnace repair
Furnace installation
Maintenance
Zoning systems
Ac repair
Boiler installation
Filtration
Duct cleaning
Indoor air quality
Emergency services
Ac installation
Ventilation
Ductless

Garrison & Garrison

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4922-A, 4922 Moores Mill Rd, Huntsville, AL 35811 (256) 859-8500 garrisonandgarrison.com

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Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Free quotes

Services Offered

Filtration
Ac installation
Indoor air quality
Maintenance
Ac repair
Furnace installation
Furnace repair
Emergency services
Smart home integration
Ductless

Valley Heating & Cooling - Southern HVAC

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3422 Hooper Ln SE, Decatur, AL 35603 (256) 474-7550 valleyheatingandcooling.com

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Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Informative resources

Services Offered

Ac installation
Maintenance
Emergency services
Ductless
Ac repair
Ventilation
Furnace installation
Indoor air quality
Duct cleaning

Aire Serv of Huntsville

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7917 A Charlotte Dr SW, Huntsville, AL 35802 (256) 469-3820 aireserv.com

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Free quotes

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Ac installation
Emergency services
Boiler installation
Ac repair
Ventilation
Maintenance
Furnace installation
Indoor air quality
Inspection

Birdwell Heating & Cooling Inc

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870 Co Rd 77, Rogersville, AL 35652 (256) 247-3088 birdwellhvac.com

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Free quotes

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Ductless
Maintenance
Emergency services
Boiler installation
Ac repair
Ac installation
Indoor air quality
Furnace installation
Smart home integration

Comfort Masters A/C

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1710 Huntsville Hwy, Fayetteville, TN 37334 (931) 297-2457 comfortmastersac.com

Reliable customer support

Prompt service delivery

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Free quotes

Services Offered

Furnace installation
Maintenance
Furnace repair
Ventilation
Smart home integration
Duct cleaning
Inspection
Ductless

Batey Brothers Heating & Cooling

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3406 S Broad St, Scottsboro, AL 35769 (256) 480-9833 callbateybros.com

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Free quotes

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Furnace installation
Maintenance
Filtration
Indoor air quality
Ductless
Zoning systems
Ac repair
Inspection
Ac installation

Anytime Heating and Cooling

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3006 11th Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35805 (256) 472-8675 anytimeheatingandcool.com

Informative resources

Free quotes

Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Filtration
Duct cleaning
Furnace installation
Indoor air quality
Ductless
Maintenance
Ac repair
Ac installation
Ventilation

Ultimate Heating & Air Conditioning

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5552 A US-431, Brownsboro, AL 35741 (256) 733-5229 ultimateaircare.com

Services Offered

Furnace installation
Emergency services
Maintenance
Ac installation
Ac repair
Duct cleaning
Ventilation
Indoor air quality

Stuart Service Inc

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202 W Coffee St, Tullahoma, TN 37388 (931) 455-0208 stuartserviceinc.com

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Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Prompt service delivery

Free quote

Services Offered

Furnace installation
Ductless
Furnace repair
Maintenance
Ventilation
Emergency services
Indoor air quality
Ac installation
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

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:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

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:

  • Refrigerant leaks
  • Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
  • Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
  • Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
  • Odd noises when turning on
  • Cracking, rust, or corrosion
  • Higher than normal energy bills
  • An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

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.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Athens

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:

  • Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the right ductwork for central heating or air, you likely have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of indoor units that regulate the temperature in individual rooms, and that are all connected to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the advantage of being able to utilize either electricity or gas for power.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer hot and cold air between your house and outside. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more moderate climates and may not be as effective during Athens' hot summers.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller homes. These systems consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit that's usually located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

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 TypeCost
Split$1,843-$4,699
Hybrid Split$3,735-$6,881
Heat Pump$2,892-$29,469
Packaged Heating and Air$242-$403

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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.

  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent some heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the strain on your HVAC system.
  • Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get too expensive.
  • Change filters regularly. Switching out or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outside areas of your system.
  • Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, condenser fan blades, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil helps your HVAC system run efficiently and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your heating and cooling system when it starts to look dirty.
ServiceCost
Filter Replacement$61-$161
Condensor Cleaning$1,210-$3,630
Thermostat Repair$81-$202
Ductwork Cleaning$387-$968

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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.

Compare Multiple Bids

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.

Check Credentials

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.

Understand Work Details

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.

Compare Warranties

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.

Get Quote in Writing

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.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Athens, AL

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:

  • Make sure your air ducts remain clean, and change or clean your air filters on a regular basis.
  • Have regular inspections to take care of problems as they come up.
  • Keep your attic well-ventilated and make sure all doors and windows are well-sealed.
  • Install a smart thermostat. If you don't want to or can't buy one, try to keep the temperature indoors as close to the outside temperature as you can.
  • When you need to replace part of your HVAC system, see if there are Energy Star-certified or other environmentally friendly options.

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