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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. In Richmond, a significant amount of your energy spending likely goes toward cooling down in the summer. On average, residents spend $120 every month cooling their homes.
Our list of Richmond's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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 repairs or install a new unit. Look out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,024-$5,159 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,100-$7,554 | |
Heat Pump | $3,175-$32,351 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $266-$443 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $66-$177 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,328-$3,985 | |
Thermostat Repair | $89-$221 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $425-$1,063 |
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.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they intend 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.
HVAC contractors in California must be licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board (CSLB). The CSLB considers HVAC contractors to be specialty contractors. All contractors are required to have four years of experience and to be bonded. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Choose a company with positive reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to ensure proper functioning. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, model, estimated installation time, features, and energy efficiency. Before starting the project, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection for the fairest price.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it gets the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes around one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Richmond, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to 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 Richmond, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company might provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: