10 Best HVAC
in Portland, CT

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Unusually high energy bills
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Portland

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you likely have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions in the same way as a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cold air between your home and outside. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they perform best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, usually in an attic or basement. This unit is often space-saving, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Luckily, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, ductwork, and grills regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it begins to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the winter helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent the heat from getting inside. Doing both helps reduce the demand on your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This helps you address issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for a successful installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.

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

When selecting an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate 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 any individual who helps "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 on a state-by-state basis.

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 license types have requirements for education and work experience. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of great customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new brand, energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, and model. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.