Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. You want your Saco home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to waste your money on inefficient heating and cooling.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've put together this guide to the best HVAC companies in Saco.
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
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:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,859-$4,739 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,767-$6,940 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,917-$29,721 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $244-$407 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $61-$163 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,220-$3,661 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $81-$203 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $391-$976 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
When picking an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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.
Maine doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. 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, Master Oil Burner and/or Solid Fuel Technician, Propane and Natural Gas Technician, Limited Wood Pellet Technician, and Limited Tank Installer. You should also check a provider'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.
Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, features, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, and brand. Before signing a contract, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Get written bids before starting HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as you can and don't make drastic changes in the temperature — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Saco, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
