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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. With Richmond West's higher cost of living, you're probably eager to save money on your energy bills.
Our list of Richmond West's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
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 broken or old likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
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 needed.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will differ depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,800-$4,589 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,647-$6,720 | |
Heat Pump | $2,824-$28,777 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $236-$394 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $59-$158 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,182-$3,545 | |
Thermostat Repair | $79-$197 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $378-$945 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When hiring an HVAC provider, 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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.
HVAC contractors in Florida 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 carry HVAC business insurance. Registered HVAC contractors can only work in one specific city, and the local government establishes licensing requirements. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to 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 your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new estimated installation time, model, brand, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the best protection at a reasonable price.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. After the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, you should schedule inspections 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 making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Richmond West, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally 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 Richmond West, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Usually, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you might consider taking out your own loan. 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 a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: