Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like most Americans, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. It's important to make sure the cooling and heating systems in your Lowell home are functioning optimally, so you can avoid spending more than necessary.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Lowell to help you choose the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
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 company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different maintenance services. Prices for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,788-$4,559 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,624-$6,676 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,806-$28,590 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $235-$391 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be costly. Luckily, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $59-$157 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,174-$3,522 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $78-$196 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $376-$939 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced 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 companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When hiring an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right 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 mandatory for all technicians who "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 at the state level.
In Arkansas, HVAC contractors 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 this license, contractors are required to complete yearly continuing education. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Choose a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about fantastic customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, brand, model, estimated installation time, and features. Before signing a contract, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the most protection at a reasonable price.
Get written quotes before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, 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 get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely 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 you can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Lowell, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective for cooling than window units.
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).
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
