10 Best HVAC Companies in Lewiston, ME

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Watch out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:

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

Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Lewiston

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by having the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer hot and cold air between your home and the outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work better in moderate climates and may not be as effective during Lewiston's cold winters.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. They have a single heating and cooling unit, typically in an attic or basement. This unit is often compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ 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

Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.

• Change filters regularly. Switching out or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months 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 your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• 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 home’s HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and grills regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it begins to look dirty.

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 in 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 providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

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, a contractor 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 by the state.

There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in Maine. However, if a contractor intends to complete electrical work while working on an HVAC system, they must be licensed by the Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation Electricians' Examining Board. An individual can also obtain speciality licenses from the Maine Fuel Board, including Limited Propane Energy Auditor, Limited Oil Energy Auditor, Limited Tank Installer, Limited Wood Pellet Technician, and Master Oil Burner and/or Solid Fuel Technician, Propane and Natural Gas Technician. 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.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system afterward to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new estimated installation time, features, model, energy efficiency, and brand. Before work starts, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.