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, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You want to be comfortable in your Scarborough home, but you also don't want to waste your money on inefficient heating and cooling.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Scarborough to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
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:
If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,900-$4,844 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,850-$7,093 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,981-$30,377 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $249-$416 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$166 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,247-$3,742 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$208 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $399-$998 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is crucial for a successful installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states must 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." Contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.
There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in Maine. 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. Individuals 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 Propane Energy Auditor, Limited Oil Energy Auditor, Limited Wood Pellet Technician, and Limited Tank Installer. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You'll want to select a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you understand the details of your project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, brand, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be 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, which is when it normally 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 avoid making drastic changes in the temperature — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Scarborough, you'll probably be fine with a unit on the lower end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out your own loan. 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:
