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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. Energy expenses in Mobile tend to be higher than in some other places, which means you're probably trying to save money on your bill.
A top HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've put together this guide to the best HVAC companies in Mobile.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different maintenance services. Fees for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,878-$4,786 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,804-$7,009 | |
Heat Pump | $2,946-$30,017 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$411 |
It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or 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 | $62-$164 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,233-$3,698 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$205 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $394-$986 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. 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.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend 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 at the state level.
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. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask your installation company to provide details on the new model, brand, features, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, 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.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be 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, 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 comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Mobile, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Mobile, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea 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: