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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. With Vestavia Hills' higher cost of living, you're probably eager to save money on your energy bills.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Vestavia Hills can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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 near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,893-$4,827 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,836-$7,068 | |
Heat Pump | $2,971-$30,269 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $249-$414 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$166 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,243-$3,729 | |
Thermostat Repair | $83-$207 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $398-$994 |
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 keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When selecting an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate 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 mandatory 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
In Alabama, HVAC contractors must 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. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, model, brand, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A thorough quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. 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, 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 gets 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 try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that 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 an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Vestavia Hills, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For a house 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 should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Vestavia Hills, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: