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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. Since such a significant portion of your utility bill goes toward cooling and heating, you'll want to ensure that the HVAC system in your Carney home is functioning optimally.
Our guide to Carney's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or outdated likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will differ depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,968-$5,017 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,988-$7,347 | |
Heat Pump | $3,088-$31,465 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $258-$431 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$172 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,292-$3,876 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$215 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $413-$1,034 |
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 heating and cooling year-round.
Get quotes from at least three 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 timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the 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 at the state level.
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 have both general liability and property damage insurance. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You want to hire a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new estimated installation time, energy efficiency, model, brand, and features. Before work starts, be 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.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a fair price.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
Normally, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing 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 several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: