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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your Frederick home, you want to know that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to Frederick's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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:
If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system needs expert attention:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what 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 | $1,912-$4,874 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,874-$7,137 | |
Heat Pump | $3,000-$30,564 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $251-$418 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are 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 | $63-$167 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,255-$3,765 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$209 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $402-$1,004 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory 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 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 hold both property damage and general liability insurance. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Choose a company with positive reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new estimated installation time, brand, features, model, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it probably 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. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider installing 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 may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for 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 general, if your home is over 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 your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: