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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Since cooling and heating represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Tallahassee home is functioning properly.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in Tallahassee to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
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:
If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or nearing the end of its lifespan, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,834-$4,676 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,717-$6,848 | |
Heat Pump | $2,878-$29,325 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $241-$401 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $60-$161 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,204-$3,612 | |
Thermostat Repair | $80-$201 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $385-$963 |
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 keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required 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 on a state-by-state basis.
In Florida, HVAC contractors must be certified or registered 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 can only work in one specific city, and the local government establishes licensing requirements. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, model, and features. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Reputable HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be 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. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any window or door leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. 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 vary depending on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections 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 Tallahassee, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For homes 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'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Tallahassee, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options through a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor 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: