Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. Since such a significant portion of your utility bill goes toward heating and cooling, you'll want to ensure that the HVAC system in your Grinnell home is functioning optimally.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the best HVAC companies in Grinnell.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make repairs or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,778-$4,532 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,603-$6,637 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,790-$28,424 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $233-$389 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be pricey. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $58-$156 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,167-$3,501 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $78-$195 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $373-$934 |
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 in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with highly 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, individuals must pass an exam (the type of 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.
HVAC contractors in Iowa must be licensed by the Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board and registered with the Iowa Division of Labor. Contractors must be bonded and insured. Licenses are available under the classifications of apprentice, journeyperson, or master; apprentices and journeypersons must be supervised by a licensed master. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of fantastic customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, brand, and model. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the best protection within your budget.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain the temperature of your home. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
