Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. In Little Rock, a lot of that energy use probably goes toward cooling off during the warm summers. In fact, the average Little Rock resident spends around $86 monthly on cooling their home.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in Little Rock to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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 old likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different maintenance services. Costs for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,820-$4,639 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,688-$6,794 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,855-$29,094 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $239-$398 |
It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$159 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,195-$3,584 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $80-$199 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $382-$956 |
Finding the right HVAC company is key for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When looking for an HVAC company, 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 mandatory for any individual who helps "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 Arkansas, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Department of Labor and Licensing's State Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, & Refrigeration Board. To be licensed, contractors must have at least two years of experience. To maintain this license, contractors are required to complete yearly continuing education. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new model, energy efficiency, brand, features, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a fair cost.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared 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. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained 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.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. 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 depend on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Little Rock, you'll probably want to purchase a unit 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'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Little Rock, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
