10 Best HVAC Companies in New Carrollton, MD

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:

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

These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in New Carrollton

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control often have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of internal units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by providing the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer hot and cold air between your home and outside. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work more effectively in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a practical choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. They're compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This allows you to address problems before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows through your HVAC system most effectively when you change out or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also try not to let debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leave your blinds open so your home benefits from passive solar heat. In summer, keep blinds shut to block out heat. Doing both reduces the amount of work your HVAC system is required to do.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your grills, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and condenser fan blades regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what 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 on a state-by-state basis.

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. Checking reviews on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a provider with great reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider list 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 contractor to describe the new brand, model, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, and features. 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.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the company that provides the best protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.