10 Best HVAC Companies in Daphne, AL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is having issues or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:

• Strange noises when turning on
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Unusually high energy bills
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Daphne

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by providing the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your house and outside. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more mild climates and may not be as effective during Daphne's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller homes. Packaged systems consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit, usually located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, grills, ductwork, and condenser fan blades clean helps your system run and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, lets you resolve them before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what kind of equipment they plan to work with). Section 608 certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.

In Alabama, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed by the Board of Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors. Contractors need to hold a surety bond and must participate in annual continuing education. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to provide details on the new estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, brand, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.