10 Best HVAC Companies in Montgomery Village, MD

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Unusually high energy bills
• Corrosion, rust, or cracking
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Montgomery Village

The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will vary depending on the type of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the right ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of internal units that control the temperature in individual rooms. These interior units are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions very similarly to a standard split system. It has the advantage of being able to utilize either electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller houses. They have a single cooling and heating unit, normally in a basement or attic. This unit is often small, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Prices for common services 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. Air flows best through your HVAC system when you change out or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the outdoor parts of your HVAC.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and ductwork clean helps your system run and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

When looking for an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the proper 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 all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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 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 is required to have at least three years of experience and must show proof of both general liability and property damage insurance. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Look for a a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after finishing the work to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the installation company describe the new brand, features, model, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written quotes before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.