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 energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With Westbrook's higher cost of living, you're probably eager to find ways to save on your energy bills.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Westbrook's top HVAC companies to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
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:
If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common 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 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are 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 to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. 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 companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific 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, 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 from the Maine Fuel Board, including Limited Propane Energy Auditor, Limited Oil Energy Auditor, Limited Wood Pellet Technician, Limited Tank Installer, and Master Oil Burner and/or Solid Fuel Technician, Propane and Natural Gas Technician. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you understand the details of any project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask your contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, brand, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC 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 unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. 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 during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be 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 how much power your HVAC system uses to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as you can and don't make drastic changes in the temperature — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
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 to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Westbrook, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
