Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With the cold winters in Lafayette, you probably feel as though you're spending even more than that. On average, the monthly heating bill for a resident of Lafayette is $180.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Lafayette.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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 HVAC system is faulty or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $2,003-$5,106 | |
| Hybrid Split | $4,058-$7,477 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,142-$32,020 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $263-$438 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $66-$175 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,315-$3,944 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $88-$219 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $421-$1,052 |
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 ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what 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.
The state of Colorado doesn't have state-level HVAC contractor licensing requirements; 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. 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 look at reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with positive reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the exact parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, brand, features, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's smart 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 typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You may also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Lafayette, you'll likely look for a furnace on the higher end of (or even above) this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose 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 several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
