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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. In Winter Park, a lot of that energy use probably goes toward cooling off during the warm summer months. In fact, Winter Park residents spend, on average, $160 a month cooling their homes.
We've assembled this guide to Winter Park's top HVAC companies to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
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 home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs 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 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $60-$161 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,209-$3,628 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$202 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $387-$968 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
When hiring an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all contractors 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 by the state.
In Florida, HVAC contractors 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 have HVAC business insurance. Registered HVAC contractors are only approved to work in a specific city, and the local government sets licensing requirements. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to verify proper operation. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, and model. Before starting the project, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get written estimates before starting HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, like strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it 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 you comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any door or window 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 between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician runs into.
Your HVAC company might have financing options through 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 find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: