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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. You don't want to spend more than you need to on temperature control in your Gateway home, so it's important to make sure all systems are working properly.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've put together this guide to the best HVAC companies in Gateway.
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
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 malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for some common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,868-$4,762 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,785-$6,974 | |
Heat Pump | $2,931-$29,865 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $245-$409 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$164 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,226-$3,679 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$204 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $392-$981 |
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 maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When looking for an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all contractors 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
HVAC contractors in Florida 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 a specific city, and the local government establishes licensing requirements. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Make sure you know the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts need 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, ask the provider to explain the new model, features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and brand. 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.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection within your budget.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's smart to have your HVAC system inspected 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 probably sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your doors and windows 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 between one and three days. 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 vary depending on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Gateway, 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 an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Gateway, you'll likely look for a unit on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, 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 speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: