10 Best HVAC Companies in New Albany, IN

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires expert attention:

• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Refrigerant leaks
• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Unusually high energy bills
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in New Albany

HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the right ductwork for central heating or air, you probably have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of internal units that regulate the temperature in individual rooms. These interior units are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by having the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by moving warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't create heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more effective in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work best in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, typically located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically compact, cost-effective, and straightforward to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both decreases the amount of work your HVAC system must perform.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the external sections of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and grills clean helps your HVAC system function properly and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association suggests cleaning your HVAC system when you notice it starting to get dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

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, 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.

There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors in Indiana; however, most cities and municipalities have their own requirements. Be sure that you check with your local government and verify the business license of any company you hire. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new energy efficiency, brand, model, features, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the best protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written quotes before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.