Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. Bogalusa's hot summers probably increase your energy costs spending during the warmer months. The average resident spends $100 a month cooling their home.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in Bogalusa to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
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 nearing the end of its lifespan, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,746-$4,451 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,538-$6,518 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,739-$27,913 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $229-$382 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $57-$153 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,146-$3,438 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $76-$191 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $367-$917 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from 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 at the state level.
In Louisiana, HVAC contractors are considered mechanical contractors and are required to be licensed by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. To receive a license, contractors are required to provide proof of liability and workers' compensation insurance. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, and brand. 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.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the company that provides the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready 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. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Bogalusa, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Bogalusa, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Normally, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
