Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With the higher cost of living in Covington, you're probably eager to reduce your energy bills.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Covington can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Award_winning
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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 might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,865-$4,753 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,778-$6,960 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,925-$29,808 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $245-$408 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $61-$163 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,224-$3,672 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$204 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $392-$979 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific 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.
All HVAC contractors in Georgia must 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. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, model, brand, features, and energy efficiency. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.
Get written bids before beginning HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system 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 reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape 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.
It takes around one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Covington, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Covington, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
