10 Best HVAC Companies in Edgemere, MD

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is having issues or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Edgemere

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for central heating and cooling often have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the advantage of having the capability to use either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate hot and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they work best in mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work best in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, commonly located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically small, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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 ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change filters regularly. Switching out your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows efficient air circulation through your HVAC system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outdoor sections of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both reduces the amount of work your HVAC system is required to do.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your grills, condenser fan blades, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil clean enables your HVAC system to function properly and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your home's HVAC when you notice it starting to get dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual 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 needs to have at least three years of experience and must have both property damage and general liability insurance. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, energy efficiency, brand, features, and model. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.