Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your Milton home, you want to ensure that you're getting the best return on your investment.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Milton'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
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
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 faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make repairs or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,790-$4,562 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,626-$6,681 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,808-$28,612 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $235-$392 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $59-$157 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,175-$3,525 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $78-$196 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $376-$940 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "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.
In Florida, HVAC contractors must be registered or certified 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 may only work in a specific city, and the local government sets licensing requirements. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the exact parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation 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 provide details on the new brand, features, model, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. 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 work 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 within your budget.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, 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 tend to be less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally 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. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any window or door leaks 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 may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
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 Milton, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Milton, you'll likely want something 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.
Usually, 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 speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
