10 Best HVAC Companies in Phoenix, AZ

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:

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

If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Phoenix

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to manage temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by having the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your house and outside. They don't create their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more mild climates and may not be as effective during Phoenix's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a practical choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, typically located in a basement or attic. They're space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

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

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the winter allows passive solar heating to warm your home. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent the same heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the demand on your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outside areas of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and condenser fan blades helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your heating and cooling system when it starts to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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 maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they plan 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 on a state-by-state basis.

In Arizona, HVAC contractors may possess one of several types of specialty residential or dual contractor licenses from the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, depending on which part of the HVAC system they work on. Typically, four years of hands-on experience is required to apply for a license, and contractors must also be bonded. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail 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, ask the contractor to describe the new estimated installation time, energy efficiency, brand, features, and model. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.