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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
If you're like most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. In Kensington, you're likely looking to reduce this energy expense and save money on your 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 assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Kensington.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
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 having issues or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need multiple types of maintenance. Prices for common 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 take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$175 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,310-$3,929 | |
Thermostat Repair | $87-$218 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $419-$1,048 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what kind of equipment they plan 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 in Connecticut who work on HVAC systems need to be licensed by the Connecticut State Department of Consumer Protection. An individual can be licensed as a journeyperson or a contractor. Both types of licenses have requirements for education and work experience. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with positive reviews and reports of fantastic customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new model, features, brand, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, like leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You may also consider getting a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective than window units for cooling.
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).
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: