10 Best HVAC Companies in Baton Rouge, LA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:

• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Strange noises when turning on
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Baton Rouge

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the advantage of being able to utilize either electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work more effectively in more moderate climates and may not be as effective during Baton Rouge's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are often a good option for smaller houses. They consist of a single heating and cooling unit, typically located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different maintenance services. Prices for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and ductwork helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and reduces your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your heating and cooling system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your house's HVAC system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Changing your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows smooth air circulation through your HVAC system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the external parts of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

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, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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.

HVAC contractors in Louisiana are considered mechanical contractors and need to be licensed by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. To obtain this license, contractors must provide proof of liability and workers' compensation insurance. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of fantastic customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new features, energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, and model. 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.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

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.