10 Best HVAC Companies in Lauderdale Lakes, FL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires expert attention:

• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Odd noises when turning on
• Unusually high energy bills
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Refrigerant leaks
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Lauderdale Lakes

The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance will vary depending on the type of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork can't accommodate a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have interior units in each room to control temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by having the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by moving hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't create heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more effective in more moderate climates. They may not be as effective during Lauderdale Lakes' hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, typically located in a basement or attic. They're space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months allows passive solar heating to warm your home. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent the heat from getting inside. Doing both helps lessen the demand on your HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and condenser fan blades helps your HVAC system run efficiently and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.
• 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 outdoor parts of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

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, an individual must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what 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.

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 have HVAC business insurance. Registered HVAC contractors are only approved to work in a specific city, and the local government establishes licensing requirements. 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 testimonials about great customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new features, model, brand, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. 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

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written quotes before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.