Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Alamosa home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Browse our guide to the top HVAC companies in Alamosa to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,939-$4,943 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,929-$7,238 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,042-$30,996 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $255-$424 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,273-$3,818 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $85-$212 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $407-$1,018 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling 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 contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary training and licenses. 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 contractors who "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.
The state of Colorado doesn't have state-level HVAC contractor licensing requirements; however, those who operate an HVAC business are required to have a Colorado business license, as well as insurance. It's a good idea to check with your municipal government to learn if there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. Any contractors who do plumbing or electrical work in addition to HVAC work must be registered with the State Plumbing Board or the Colorado Electrical Board, respectively. Checking reviews on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts require 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 your installation company to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, model, brand, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.
Get written estimates before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's best to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it likely sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You may also consider getting a smart thermostat.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Alamosa, you'll probably want a furnace on the higher end of or above this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
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 find out what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
