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Last Updated: February 25, 2025
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. Albany's hot summers probably mean that your energy bill is higher during the warmer months. The average resident spends $130 every month cooling their home.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Albany's top HVAC companies to help you choose the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
User Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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 may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,714-$4,370 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,474-$6,400 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,690-$27,408 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $225-$375 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $56-$150 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,125-$3,376 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $75-$188 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $360-$900 |
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 ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what 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 by the state.
In Georgia, all HVAC contractors are required to be licensed. They may hold a Class I or Class II license. A Class I license requires four years of experience and limits the type of equipment a contractor can work on. Class II licenses require five years of experience and are unrestricted. You can verify a license on the Secretary of State's website. Checking reviews on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after finishing the work to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new brand, model, estimated installation time, features, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Reputable HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get written bids before beginning HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, 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, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Albany, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Albany, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company might have financing options through a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain a loan on your own. 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.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
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