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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like most Americans, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Manchester home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our list of Manchester's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
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 old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs 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 repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$175 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,310-$3,929 | |
Thermostat Repair | $87-$218 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $419-$1,048 |
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 maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
When hiring an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right 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 technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
All individuals who work on HVAC systems in Connecticut must be licensed by the Connecticut State Department of Consumer Protection. An individual can be licensed as a journeyperson or a contractor. Both license types have requirements related to education and work experience. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, features, and model. Before signing paperwork, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get a written proposal 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.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You may also consider purchasing 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 depend on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Your HVAC company may offer financing options through a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain your own loan. It's smart 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 a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: