10 Best HVAC Companies in Brewer, ME

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:

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

If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Brewer

HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork can't accommodate a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units all 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 draw power from either electric or gas sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer hot and cold air between your home and outside. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work more effectively in more moderate climates and may not be as effective during Brewer's cold winters.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller houses. They have a single cooling and heating unit, usually in a basement or attic. This unit is often compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, helps you resolve them before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning condenser fan blades, ductwork, grills, and indoor evaporator coil 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. Leaving your blinds open during the winter allows passive solar heating to warm your home. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent the same heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the demand on your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outdoor sections of your system.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained 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, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific 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 by the state.

Maine doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. However, if an HVAC job also requires electrical work, the contractor must be licensed by the Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation Electricians' Examining Board. An individual can also obtain speciality licenses through the Maine Fuel Board, including Limited Wood Pellet Technician, Limited Propane Energy Auditor, Limited Oil Energy Auditor, Master Oil Burner and/or Solid Fuel Technician, Propane and Natural Gas Technician, and Limited Tank Installer. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. You want to hire a provider 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 explain which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new features, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, brand, and model. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, keeping in mind 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 quote before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.