Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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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 Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With Scottdale's higher cost of living, you're likely eager to reduce your energy bills.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Scottdale can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
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 HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,907-$4,861 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,864-$7,118 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,992-$30,485 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $250-$417 |
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.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $63-$167 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,252-$3,755 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$209 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $401-$1,001 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. 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. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. You want to hire a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of your project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new estimated installation time, brand, features, energy efficiency, and model. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. At the time of the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected 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 probably 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. 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 leaks around your windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. 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 an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Scottdale, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually 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 Scottdale, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
