10 Best HVAC Companies in Applewood, CO

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires expert attention:

• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

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 better solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Applewood

HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you likely have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have internal units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either gas or electricity as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your house and outside. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more moderate climates and may not be as effective during Applewood's cold winters.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are often a good option for smaller houses. Packaged systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit that's normally located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, grills, condenser fan blades, and ductwork clean helps your system run and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent the same heat from getting inside. Doing both helps reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outside areas of your system.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of 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.

Colorado doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors; however, anyone who runs an HVAC business is required to have a Colorado business license, as well as insurance. You may want to check with your municipal government to determine if there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. Additionally, contractors that do plumbing or electrical work in addition to HVAC work must register with the State Plumbing Board or the Colorado Electrical Board, respectively. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Look for a a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, model, and features. 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.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written estimates before beginning HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.