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 home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. In Durango, much of your energy bill probably goes toward running your heat during the winter. The average resident spends $180 on heating every month.
Our guide to Durango's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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 getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs 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 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual 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 |
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 keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' 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 who have the necessary licensure and training. 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 technicians 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 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, plus insurance. You may want to check with your municipal government to find out if there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. Any contractors who do electrical or plumbing work in addition to HVAC work must be registered with the State Plumbing Board or the Colorado Electrical Board, respectively. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new model, brand, estimated installation time, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a fair cost.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally sees the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as you can and avoid making drastic temperature changes — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have your 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 can be determined by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Durango, you can probably make do with a unit that's on the lower end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to 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 Durango, you might need a higher-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
