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, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In Bastrop, a lot of that energy use probably goes toward cooling off during the warm summers. In fact, Bastrop residents spend, on average, $94 a month cooling their homes.
Our list of Bastrop's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
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:
If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can evaluate your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different maintenance services. Prices for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,814-$4,626 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,677-$6,774 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,847-$29,008 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $238-$397 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$159 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,191-$3,573 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $79-$199 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $381-$953 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by 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 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 by the state.
In Louisiana, HVAC contractors are considered mechanical contractors and must be licensed by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. To obtain this license, contractors must provide proof of workers' compensation and liability insurance. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. You'll want to select a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, model, brand, energy efficiency, and features. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection within your budget.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any window or door leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
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 can take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Bastrop, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Bastrop, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea 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 a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
