10 Best HVAC Companies in Pikesville, MD

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires professional attention:

• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Refrigerant leaks
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you see any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Pikesville

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties 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 indoor 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 as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by moving warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't generate heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more effective in more moderate 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 a basement or attic. They're small, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Opening your blinds in winter allows passive solar heat into your house. Closing your blinds in summer blocks some heat from getting indoors. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your house's HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows effective air circulation through your HVAC system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outside components of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your grills, ductwork, condenser fan blades, and indoor evaporator coil regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

When hiring an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate 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 mandatory for all contractors 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 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 is required to have at least three years of experience and must hold both property damage and general liability insurance. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to understand 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 getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, brand, model, estimated installation time, and features. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

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