Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In The Crossings, a lot of that energy use probably goes toward cooling your home in the warm summer months. In fact, The Crossings residents spend, on average, $160 a month cooling their homes.
We've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in The Crossings to help you choose the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
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
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 near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for 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. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to reduce 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 what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors 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 all technicians 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 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.
HVAC contractors in Florida must be certified or registered 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 are only approved to work in one specific city, and the local government sets licensing requirements. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for a a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the exact 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. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new estimated installation time, energy efficiency, features, brand, and model. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the best protection for a fair price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to 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 likely 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 is comfortable, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes around one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In The Crossings, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In The Crossings, you'll likely look for a unit on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
