10 Best HVAC Companies in Riverdale, GA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:

• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Unusually high energy bills
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Cracking, rust, or corrosion
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Riverdale

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn't have the right ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of indoor units that regulate the temperature in individual rooms, and that are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move warm and cool air between your home and outside. They don't create their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more mild climates and may not be as effective during Riverdale's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller houses. They have a single heating and cooling unit, typically in a basement or attic. This unit is often space-saving, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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 HVAC.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get out of hand.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outside areas of your system.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and condenser fan blades helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists 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

Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states must 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." 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 on a state-by-state basis.

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. Licenses can be verified on the Secretary of State's website. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are finished to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new features, energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, and brand. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.