Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. You don't want to spend more than necessary on temperature control in your Spencer home, so it's critical that all systems are working properly.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in Spencer to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
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 HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, 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.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,864-$4,751 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,776-$6,957 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,924-$29,793 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $245-$408 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $61-$163 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,223-$3,670 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$204 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $391-$979 |
Finding the right HVAC company is vital for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians 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 what kind 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.
HVAC contractors in Iowa are required to be licensed by the Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board and registered with the Iowa Division of Labor. Contractors must be both 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 a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the exact parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new estimated installation time, model, brand, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the best protection at a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are often 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, the times of the year when it gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider getting a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
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 Spencer, you'll be better off going with a furnace on the higher end of or above this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might have financing options through a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain your own loan. 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 several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
