10 Best HVAC Companies in West Palm Beach, FL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:

• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Strange noises when turning on
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Corrosion, rust, or cracking
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in West Palm Beach

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types 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 indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to draw power from either electric or gas sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't create their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more mild climates and may not be as effective during West Palm Beach's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller homes. These systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit that's normally located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different maintenance services. Prices for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear 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 strain on your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows effective air circulation through your HVAC system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outdoor sections of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, lets you resolve them before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and grills regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it begins to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the kind of equipment they intend 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 certified or registered 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 determines licensing requirements. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with positive reviews and testimonials about fantastic customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will back its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the company that provides the greatest protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.