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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You want your Waycross home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on inefficient cooling and heating.
A top HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the best HVAC companies in Waycross.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
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 home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,694-$4,319 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,433-$6,324 | |
Heat Pump | $2,658-$27,084 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $222-$371 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $56-$148 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,112-$3,336 | |
Thermostat Repair | $74-$185 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $356-$890 |
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.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor 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 by the state.
In Georgia, all HVAC contractors 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. Class II licenses require five years of experience and are unrestricted. You can verify a license on the Secretary of State's website. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. You want to hire a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system afterward to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask your contractor to provide details on the new model, brand, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and features. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically 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. Keep your thermostat temperature 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 door or window leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
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 Waycross, 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 an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Waycross, you'll likely want something on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might offer financing options through a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea 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: