10 Best HVAC Companies in Burlington, MA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:

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

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

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Burlington

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by having the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by moving warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't produce heat or air conditioning themselves, and are better for more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller houses. They have a single cooling and heating unit, typically in a basement or attic. This unit is often compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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 ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outdoor sections of your system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and ductwork regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When hiring an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must 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." 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.

The state of Massachusetts doesn't have state-level HVAC contractor licensing requirements. However, HVAC technicians who do certain cooling work may need a Refrigeration Technician License for larger projects.

It's also a good idea to check with your city or municipal government to learn if there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. You'll want to select a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the specific parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, model, and brand. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Look at 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

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.