10 Best HVAC Companies in Douglasville, GA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's broken or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Refrigerant leaks
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Strange noises when turning on
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Book an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Douglasville

HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control frequently have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of indoor units in each room to control temperature, which all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by providing the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move warm and cool air between your home and outside. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more moderate climates and may not be as effective during Douglasville's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller houses. Packaged systems consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, grills, condenser fan blades, and indoor evaporator coil clean helps your HVAC system function properly and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association suggests cleaning your home's HVAC when you notice things starting to get dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outside areas of your system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is key for a successful installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When looking for an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.

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. A Class II license requires five years of experience and is unrestricted. Licenses can be verified on the Secretary of State's website. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of fantastic customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of your project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require 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, request that the company explain the new features, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, brand, and model. Before signing a contract, be 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.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written bids before starting any HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.