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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. With the cost of living in Pelham, you're likely eager to find ways to save on your energy bills.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Pelham to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
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 malfunctioning or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,857-$4,735 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,763-$6,933 | |
Heat Pump | $2,914-$29,692 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $244-$406 |
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 ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$163 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,219-$3,658 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$203 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $390-$975 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Request estimates from at least three 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 timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
When looking for an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "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 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.
In Alabama, HVAC contractors 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. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Choose a company with positive reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new brand, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the best protection for the fairest price.
Get written quotes before beginning HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, like strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system 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 help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes around one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Pelham, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. For homes over 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 Pelham, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: