Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
If you're like the average American, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. This may not surprise you if you live in Blackfoot and spend all winter running your heat. On average, residents spend $130 a month on their heating.
Our guide to Blackfoot's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,785-$4,551 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,617-$6,664 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,801-$28,540 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $234-$391 |
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.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $59-$156 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,172-$3,516 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $78-$195 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $375-$938 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states 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 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 on a state-by-state basis.
In Idaho, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed by the state Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses. An individual can be licensed as an apprentice, journeyman, or full contractor, and can hold a general or specialty license. To be fully licensed, contractors must have at least two years of experience and must be bonded. You can verify a contractor's license on this website. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, brand, model, estimated installation time, and features. Before signing a contract, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
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 offers the best protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. After the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, you should schedule inspections 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 typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
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 home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Blackfoot, you'll likely look for a furnace on the higher end of or above 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. Generally, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
