10 Best HVAC Companies in Mountain Brook, AL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:

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

Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Mountain Brook

What you pay for 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 right ductwork for central heating or air, you probably have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of internal units that control the temperature in individual rooms. These interior units are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions very similarly to a standard split system. It has the advantage of being able to utilize either electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your home and outside. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more temperate climates and may not be as effective during Mountain Brook's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller houses. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, normally located in a basement or attic. They're small, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different maintenance services. Costs for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, ductwork, and grills clean helps your HVAC system function effectively and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your home's HVAC system when you notice it starting to get dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills. This allows you to address problems before they get too expensive.
• 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. Air flows through your HVAC system most effectively when you change out or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also try not to let debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.

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 fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When picking an HVAC provider, 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 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 at the state level.

HVAC contractors in Alabama must 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 check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, features, and brand. Before signing a contract, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

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 provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

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