10 Best HVAC Companies in Merrydale, 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 signs that your system requires expert attention:

• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Unusually high energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Merrydale

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to manage temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your house and outside. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more temperate climates and may not be as effective during Merrydale's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in a basement or attic. They're space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be costly. Luckily, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and grills clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is vital for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. 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 this license, contractors must provide proof of liability and workers' compensation insurance. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new model, brand, estimated installation time, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.