Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. In Medulla, a lot of that energy use likely goes toward cooling off during the warm summer months. In fact, Medulla residents spend, on average, $160 a month cooling their homes.
We've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Medulla to help you hire the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
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:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,835-$4,678 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,719-$6,851 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,879-$29,339 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $241-$402 |
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 ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$161 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,205-$3,614 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $80-$201 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $386-$964 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the kind of equipment they plan 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 registered or certified with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Certified HVAC contractors must have four years of experience, pass an exam, and carry HVAC business insurance. Registered HVAC contractors may only work in a specific city, and the local government sets licensing requirements. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new brand, estimated installation time, model, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and 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 within your budget.
Get written bids before starting HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. At the time of the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready 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 can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Medulla, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Medulla, you'll likely look for something on the higher end of this range. Generally, if your home is larger than 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 financing, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
