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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. It's important that the temperature control systems in your North Bethesda home are working properly, so that you don't spend more than you need to.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've assembled this guide to the best HVAC companies in North Bethesda.
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
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 faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,976-$5,038 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,004-$7,378 | |
Heat Pump | $3,101-$31,594 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $259-$432 |
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.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$173 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,297-$3,892 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$216 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $415-$1,038 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors 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 by the state.
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. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of your project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, model, brand, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the best protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A thorough quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider getting a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: