10 Best HVAC Companies in Colorado Springs, CO

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

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

If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Colorado Springs

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but is able to utilize either gas or electricity as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cool air between your home and outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work better in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller homes. They consist of a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outside areas of your system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get out of hand.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and grills clean enables your HVAC system to function effectively and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your home's HVAC system when you notice things starting to get dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the right things to look for in an 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.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

When picking an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the proper 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 required 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.

There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in Colorado; however, anyone who operates 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 find out if there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. Additionally, contractors that do electrical or plumbing work in addition to HVAC work must register with the State Plumbing Board or the Colorado Electrical Board, respectively. Reviewing feedback on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of your project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new brand, features, energy efficiency, model, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

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

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.