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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. It's important that the cooling and heating systems in your Ontario home are working properly, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
We've assembled this guide to Ontario's top HVAC companies to help you hire the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
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:
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 indicators that your system requires professional attention:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,890-$4,817 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,829-$7,054 | |
Heat Pump | $2,965-$30,211 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $248-$414 |
It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, 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 | $62-$165 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,241-$3,722 | |
Thermostat Repair | $83-$207 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $397-$992 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians 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.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must 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." Contractors 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.
HVAC contractors in California must be licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board (CSLB). HVAC contractors are considered specialty contractors by the CSLB. All contractors must have four years of experience and be bonded. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
Always make sure you know the details of any project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new estimated installation time, energy efficiency, features, model, 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 trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. An itemized quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets 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 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 between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Ontario, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will generally 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). In Ontario, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: