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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. In South Miami, a significant portion of your energy spending likely goes toward cooling your home in the summer. On average, residents spend $160 every month cooling their homes.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in South Miami to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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 attention from a professional who can make fixes or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Costs for some common services 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. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $59-$158 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,182-$3,545 | |
Thermostat Repair | $79-$197 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $378-$945 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
When hiring an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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 on a state-by-state basis.
HVAC contractors in Florida 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 one specific city, and the local government establishes licensing requirements. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system at the end of the job to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new energy efficiency, model, brand, features, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the best protection at a reasonable price.
Get written quotes before starting HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's best to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared 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. 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 leaks around your doors and windows 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 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 depend on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In South Miami, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In South Miami, you'll likely look for a unit on the higher end of this range. In general, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: