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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated May 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. In Fort Walton Beach, you're probably looking to reduce your energy usage and save money on your bills.
Our list of Fort Walton Beach's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Look out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,804-$4,599 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,656-$6,735 | |
Heat Pump | $2,831-$28,842 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $237-$395 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, 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 | $59-$158 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,184-$3,553 | |
Thermostat Repair | $79-$197 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $379-$947 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they intend 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 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 establishes licensing requirements. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. You'll want to select a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after finishing the work to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, features, model, energy efficiency, and brand. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are often 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 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 is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Fort Walton Beach, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Fort Walton Beach, you'll likely look for a unit on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.