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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your Paducah home, you want to know that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to Paducah's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
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 HVAC system is broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,755-$4,473 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,555-$6,550 | |
Heat Pump | $2,753-$28,050 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $230-$384 |
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 ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $58-$154 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,152-$3,455 | |
Thermostat Repair | $77-$192 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $369-$921 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare 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 skilled technicians who have appropriate 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, an individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the kind of equipment they plan 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. 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 ongoing education. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a provider with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new brand, model, estimated installation time, features, and energy efficiency. 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.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection for the fairest price.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You may also consider a smart thermostat.
It takes around one to three days to have your 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 can be determined by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Paducah, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Usually, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: