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10 Best HVAC Companies in Decatur, AL

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Written By Bradford Cuthrell

Last Updated February 2024

If you're like the typical American homeowner, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. You don't want to spend more than necessary on temperature control in your Decatur home, so it's critical that all systems are functioning properly.

A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've put together this guide to the best HVAC companies in Decatur.

Top 10 Best HVAC Companies in Decatur

Valley Heating & Cooling - Southern HVAC

Valley Heating & Cooling - Southern HVAC Logo

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

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

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

Southeastern Mechanical Services, LLC

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1102 4th Ave SE #8B, Decatur, AL 35603 (256) 686-3444 smshvacr.com

Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Ductless
Ac repair
Maintenance
Ventilation
Ac installation

Skyward Heating Air Plumbing

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204 Pride Ln, Decatur, AL 35603 (256) 203-6223 callskyward.com

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Ac repair
Filtration
Indoor air quality
Maintenance
Ac installation
Ductless
Furnace installation

Early Services Inc

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3432 Valley Ave SW, Decatur, AL 35603 (256) 350-7701 earlyservices.com

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Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Ac repair
Maintenance
Emergency services

Higdon Service

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1915 State Hwy 20, Decatur, AL 35601 (256) 351-0904 higdonservice.com

Services Offered

Duct cleaning
Indoor air quality
Ac installation
Maintenance

Tolbert's Heating & Cooling

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97 Church Rd, Hartselle, AL 35640 (256) 606-5779 rheem.com

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Indoor air quality
Ac installation
Ductless
Ac repair
Furnace installation
Furnace repair

G & L Heating & Cooling Inc

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2002 Hwy 31 SW, Hartselle, AL 35640 (256) 773-2997 glheatingcooling.com

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Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Services Offered

Maintenance
Emergency services
Ac repair

Air Engineers Trane Wholesale Distribution

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25114 Will McComb Dr, Tanner, AL 35671 (256) 280-2030 aireng.com

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Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Ventilation

Don Carter Heating & Cooling

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24185 US-72, Athens, AL 35613 (256) 474-0027 doncarterhvac.com

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Services Offered

Ductless
Maintenance
Ac installation
Inspection
Ventilation

Valley Heating and Cooling - Athens

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1207 E Forrest St Ste. D #181, Athens, AL 35613 (256) 353-2004 valleyheatingandcooling.com

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Prompt service delivery

Informative resources

Free quote

Services Offered

Ductless
Filtration
Indoor air quality
Duct cleaning
Ac repair
Emergency services
Ventilation
Maintenance
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 faulty or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

  • Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
  • Unusually high energy bills
  • Odd noises when the system turns on
  • Refrigerant leaks
  • Cracking, rust, or corrosion
  • Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
  • Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
  • An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Decatur

HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

  • Split or mini-split: If your home doesn't have the right ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of internal units that regulate the temperature in individual rooms. These interior units are all connected to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions in the same way as a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to draw power from either electric or gas sources.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work best in temperate climates and may not be as effective during Decatur's hot summers.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, normally in an attic or basement. This unit is often compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:

HVAC Unit Type Cost
Split $1,801-$4,591
Hybrid Split $3,649-$6,723
Heat Pump $2,826-$28,792
Packaged Heating and Air $236-$394

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

  • Change filters regularly. Air flows through your HVAC system most effectively when you change out or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also try not to let debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.
  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both helps minimize the amount of work your HVAC system is required to do.
  • Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get out of hand.
  • Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, grills, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.

Service Cost
Filter Replacement $59-$158
Condensor Cleaning $1,182-$3,547
Thermostat Repair $79-$197
Ductwork Cleaning $378-$946

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When hiring an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind 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 need to hold a surety bond and must participate in annual continuing education. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You'll want to select a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of any project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are done to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new model, energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, and brand. Before work starts, make 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

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Decatur, AL

Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.

The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it 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. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any window or door leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.

Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician finds any problems.

Your HVAC company may offer financing options through a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.

There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:

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

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