10 Best HVAC Companies in Louisville, KY

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 repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:

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

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Louisville

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by having the option to use 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 generate heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more suited to more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller homes. Packaged systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit, usually located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be costly. Luckily, there are actions you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows smooth air circulation through your system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outdoor sections of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, grills, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.
• 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 lower the work required from your 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 fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors 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 on a state-by-state basis.

In Kentucky, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction. An individual can be an apprentice, journeyman, or master contractor. Master contractors are required to have at least two years of experience, need to have general liability insurance, and must participate in continuing education. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, features, model, estimated installation time, and brand. Before work starts, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A thorough quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.