Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In Scottsdale, a lot of that energy use likely goes toward cooling your home in the warm summer months. In fact, the average Scottsdale resident spends around $180 monthly on cooling their home.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Scottsdale to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,957-$4,990 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,966-$7,307 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,071-$31,292 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $257-$428 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$171 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,285-$3,855 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $411-$1,028 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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 at the state level.
In Arizona, HVAC contractors may have one of multiple types of specialty residential or dual contractor licenses from the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, depending on which HVAC components they work on. Typically, contractors must have four years of hands-on experience in order to apply for a license, and they also must be bonded. Checking reviews on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the specific parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new model, estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, and brand. 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.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection within your budget.
Get written quotes before starting HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are 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. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any window or door leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. 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 an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Scottsdale, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Scottsdale, you'll likely need a unit on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might have financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
