10 Best HVAC
in Farmington, ME

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is faulty or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Odd noises when turning on
• Unusually high energy bills
• Corrosion, rust, or cracking
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Farmington

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to manage temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your house and the outdoors. They don't create their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more moderate climates and may not be as effective during Farmington's cold winters.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller homes. These systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit that's normally located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

The price of HVAC maintenance also depends on what 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

HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, ductwork, and grills clean helps your system run and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Opening your blinds in winter allows passive solar heat into your house. Closing your blinds in summer blocks some heat from getting indoors. Both of these measures help lower the work required from your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Changing 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 outside areas of your system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get out of hand.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from 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.

Maine doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. However, contractors who complete electrical work while working on an HVAC system 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 Master Oil Burner and/or Solid Fuel Technician, Propane and Natural Gas Technician, Limited Wood Pellet Technician, Limited Tank Installer, and Limited Propane Energy Auditor, Limited Oil Energy Auditor. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, model, and brand. Before signing a contract, 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. Look at warranties from different companies, remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

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