10 Best HVAC Companies in Orange, CT

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Cracking, rust, or corrosion
• Refrigerant leaks
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Orange

The price of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the type of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have internal units in each room to manage temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either electricity or gas as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your house and the outdoors. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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 slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Change filters regularly. Air flows best through your HVAC system when you change out or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, condenser fan blades, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil helps your HVAC system run efficiently and reduces your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both decreases the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. 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.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by 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 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 are required 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 related to education and work experience. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks 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 guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the installation company describe the new model, energy efficiency, features, brand, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will back its repair work 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 best protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.