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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your Martinez home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in Martinez to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Look out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and figure out whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. 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 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps 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 good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual 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.
All HVAC contractors in Georgia must be licensed. They can have either 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. You can verify a license on the Secretary of State's website. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new brand, model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and features. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the best protection within your budget.
Get written quotes before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's smart to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely 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 can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Martinez, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Martinez, you'll likely need something on the higher end of this range. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: