10 Best HVAC Companies in Acton, MA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is faulty or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

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

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

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Acton

The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn't have the right ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of interior units that control the temperature in individual rooms, and that are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they perform best in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller houses. They consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit, normally located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several 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 expensive. Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both reduces the amount of work your HVAC system is required to do.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keep an eye on your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This helps you address problems before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, grills, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows effective air circulation through your system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the external parts of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with skilled 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, an individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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 at the state level.

There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in Massachusetts. However, HVAC technicians who do certain cooling work may need a Refrigeration Technician License for larger projects.

You should also check with your city or municipal government to find out if there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the installation company describe the new energy efficiency, model, brand, estimated installation time, 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

Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection for the fairest price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.