Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With the cost of living in Bristol, you're probably eager to reduce your energy bills.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Bristol.
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
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 HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,995-$5,086 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,043-$7,448 | |
Heat Pump | $3,130-$31,897 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $262-$437 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, 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 | $65-$175 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,310-$3,929 | |
Thermostat Repair | $87-$218 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $419-$1,048 |
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.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate 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, an individual must pass an exam (the specific 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 by the state.
All individuals who work on HVAC systems in Connecticut are required to be licensed by the Connecticut State Department of Consumer Protection. A worker can be licensed as a journeyperson or a contractor. Both license types have requirements for education and work experience. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, model, brand, estimated installation time, and features. Before signing paperwork, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC 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, such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. 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 are less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may provide financing options through a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: