10 Best HVAC Companies in Temple Terrace, FL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:

• Strange noises when turning on
• Refrigerant leaks
• Rust, corrosion, or cracking
• Unusually high energy bills
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Temple Terrace

HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the advantage of being able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they work best in mild climates and may not be as effective during Temple Terrace's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, typically located in a basement or attic. They're small, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, grills, indoor evaporator coil, and condenser fan blades clean helps your HVAC system function effectively and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association suggests cleaning your home's HVAC when you notice it starting to get dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, lets you resolve them before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the outside areas of your HVAC system as much as possible.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

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, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the 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 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 are only approved to work in a specific city, and the local government establishes licensing requirements. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, features, estimated installation time, model, and energy efficiency. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the best protection for the fairest price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.