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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. You don't want to spend more than necessary on cooling and heating your Lanham home, so it's critical that all systems are functioning properly.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Lanham can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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 having issues or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance will differ depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different maintenance services. Costs for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,998-$5,093 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,048-$7,458 | |
Heat Pump | $3,135-$31,940 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $262-$437 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $66-$175 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,312-$3,935 | |
Thermostat Repair | $87-$219 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $420-$1,049 |
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 for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians who "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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.
In Maryland, HVAC contractors 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 show proof of both general liability and property damage insurance. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, brand, and model. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.
Get written quotes before starting HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected 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 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 is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could also consider getting a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician discovers.
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 is likely to be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may be able 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 find the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: