Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In Salisbury, you're probably looking to reduce your energy usage and save money.
Our guide to Salisbury's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
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 home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,882-$4,798 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,814-$7,026 | |
Heat Pump | $2,953-$30,089 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$412 |
It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,236-$3,707 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $395-$988 |
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 keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When selecting 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 required for all technicians 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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. 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 needs to have at least three years of experience and must hold both general liability and property damage insurance. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are completed to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, features, and brand. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection within your budget.
Get written estimates before starting any HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's smart to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it likely sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
It takes around one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: