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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. In Brownsville, a significant amount of your energy usage likely goes toward cooling down in the summer. On average, residents spend $160 a month cooling their homes.
We've put together this guide to Brownsville's top HVAC companies to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
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:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,800-$4,589 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,647-$6,720 | |
Heat Pump | $2,824-$28,777 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $236-$394 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $59-$158 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,182-$3,545 | |
Thermostat Repair | $79-$197 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $378-$945 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When selecting an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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.
In Florida, HVAC contractors must be certified or registered with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Certified HVAC contractors need to have four years of experience, pass an exam, and carry HVAC business insurance. Registered HVAC contractors can only work in one specific city, and the local government determines licensing requirements. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Look for a a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are finished to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new model, estimated installation time, brand, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
A reputable 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 provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any door or window leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Brownsville, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will 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). In Brownsville, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may provide 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're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: