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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. In Southchase, you're likely looking to reduce your energy expenses and save money on your bills.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Southchase to help you hire the right person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
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:
If your HVAC system is having issues or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different maintenance services. Fees for 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 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $60-$161 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,209-$3,628 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$202 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $387-$968 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors 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 what 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 by the state.
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 have HVAC business insurance. Registered HVAC contractors may only work in a specific city, and the local government sets licensing requirements. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask your contractor to provide details on the new brand, model, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, and features. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection for a fair price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably 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 is comfortable, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that 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 need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Southchase, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Southchase, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Normally, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn 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: