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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. You want your Baltimore home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on ineffective cooling and heating.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Baltimore can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
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 HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, identify problems, and determine 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:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,503-$6,380 | |
Hybrid Split | $5,071-$9,343 | |
Heat Pump | $3,927-$40,010 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $329-$548 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $82-$219 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,643-$4,929 | |
Thermostat Repair | $110-$274 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $526-$1,314 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an 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 coolig and heating year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When hiring an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
HVAC contractors in Maryland are licensed by the Maryland Board of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors. To obtain a master or master restricted license, a contractor is required to have at least three years of experience and must hold both general liability and property damage insurance. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You want to hire a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new estimated installation time, model, features, energy efficiency, and brand. Before signing paperwork, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Reputable HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, which makes 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 throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You may also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: