Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Help us match you with local pros in your area
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Join more than 640 people who have gotten a free quote in the past week.
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 Department of Energy. It's important to make sure the temperature control systems in your Fort Smith home are functioning optimally, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
Our guide to Fort Smith's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,791-$4,566 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,629-$6,686 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,810-$28,633 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $235-$392 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $59-$157 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,176-$3,527 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $78-$196 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $376-$941 |
Finding the right HVAC company is key for a successful installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When selecting an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required 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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
HVAC contractors in Arkansas must be licensed by the Department of Labor and Licensing's State Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, & Refrigeration Board. To receive a license, contractors must have at least two years of experience. To maintain a license, contractors must complete yearly continuing education. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You want to hire a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new model, estimated installation time, brand, features, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection within your budget.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's smart 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 typically 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. Keep your thermostat temperature 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 door or window leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Fort Smith, 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 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 Fort Smith, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you might consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
