10 Best HVAC Companies in North Kensington, MD

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is faulty or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:

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

Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in North Kensington

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have internal units in each room to regulate temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but is able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move hot and cold air between your house and the outdoors. They don't create their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller houses. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. They're compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different maintenance services. Fees for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.

• 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 decreases the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on 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 out of hand.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, ductwork, condenser fan blades, and indoor evaporator coil helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they plan 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.

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 must have at least three years of experience and must hold both property damage and general liability insurance. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to know what the work process will 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 your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, ask your installation company to provide details on the new model, energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, and features. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the greatest protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written bids before beginning HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.