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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. Oak Ridge's hot summers probably increase your energy costs spending during the warmer months. The average resident spends $160 every month cooling their home.
We've researched and assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Oak Ridge to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
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:
If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for some common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,842-$4,697 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,733-$6,878 | |
Heat Pump | $2,891-$29,455 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $242-$403 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $60-$161 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,209-$3,628 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$202 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $387-$968 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors 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 by the state.
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 are only approved to work in a specific city, and the local government establishes licensing requirements. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Choose a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process is going to 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 your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new model, features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and brand. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, like unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is 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 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 try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. 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 be based on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Oak Ridge, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Oak Ridge, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: