Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It's important to make sure the cooling and heating systems in your Woodstock home are functioning optimally, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Woodstock's top HVAC companies to help you hire the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
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 issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,977-$5,039 | |
| Hybrid Split | $4,005-$7,379 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,101-$31,602 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $260-$433 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $65-$173 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,298-$3,893 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $87-$216 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $415-$1,038 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper 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, contractors must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what 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 at the state level.
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. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after finishing the work to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, brand, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection within your budget.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally 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 comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. 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 depend on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Woodstock, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Woodstock, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might 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 find the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
