Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. In St. Marys, much of that energy use likely goes toward cooling your home in the warm summers. In fact, the average St. Marys resident spends around $140 monthly on cooling their home.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in St. Marys to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that 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 correct solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will vary depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,865-$4,755 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,780-$6,964 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,927-$29,822 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $245-$408 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, 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 | $1,225-$3,674 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$204 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $392-$980 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is crucial 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.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. 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 specific 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 on a state-by-state basis.
All HVAC contractors in Georgia are required to be licensed. They can have either a Class I or Class II license. Class I licenses require four years of experience and limit 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 look at reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a company with positive reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after finishing the work to guarantee proper operation. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, model, features, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection for the fairest price.
Get written quotes before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's smart to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared 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 is comfortable, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any window or door leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In St. Marys, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In St. Marys, you'll likely want something on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
