10 Best HVAC Companies in Clarksville, IN

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is faulty or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:

• Refrigerant leaks
• Unusually high energy bills
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Odd noises when turning on
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Clarksville

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they perform best in mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller houses. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, typically located in a basement or attic. They're compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and ductwork clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outside areas of your system.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Opening your blinds in winter allows passive solar heat into your house. Closing your blinds in summer blocks some heat from getting indoors. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your home’s HVAC system.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. 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 for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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 on a state-by-state basis.

Indiana doesn't have any state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors; however, most municipalities and cities have their own requirements. Be sure that you check with your local government and verify the business license of any company you hire. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You want to hire a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask your contractor to provide details on the new estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, model, and brand. 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.

Compare Warranties

Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.