Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It's important to make sure the cooling and heating systems in your Spanish Fort home are functioning properly, so that you don't spend more than you need to.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Spanish Fort can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
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:
If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,829-$4,662 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,706-$6,827 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,869-$29,238 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $240-$400 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$160 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,201-$3,602 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $80-$200 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $384-$960 |
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 air conditioning and heating in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When looking for an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must 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.
In Alabama, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed through 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you understand the details of any project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new brand, features, model, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable 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 gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely 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 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, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Spanish Fort, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Spanish Fort, you'll likely look for a unit on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might provide financing options through a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
