Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the average American, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. You don't want to spend more than necessary on temperature control in your Madisonville home, so it's important to make sure all systems are working properly.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Madisonville to help you choose the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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 home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different maintenance services. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,706-$4,350 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,457-$6,370 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,677-$27,279 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $224-$373 |
It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or 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 | $56-$149 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,120-$3,360 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $75-$187 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $358-$896 |
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 maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor 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.
In Kentucky, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction. Contractors can hold apprentice, journeyman, or master standing. Master contractors are required to have at least two years of experience, need to have general liability insurance, and must participate in ongoing education. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain 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, ask the contractor to describe the new model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and features. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally 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 you can, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider installing a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Madisonville, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 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 via 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're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
