10 Best HVAC Companies in Everett, MA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires expert attention:

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

Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Everett

The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will differ 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 ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have internal units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work more efficiently in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, typically located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically small, cost-effective, and straightforward to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills. This allows you to address issues before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows efficient air circulation through your system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the external parts of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, condenser fan blades, and grills clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• 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 helps minimize the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. 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 for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific 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 at the state level.

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

You should also check with your city or municipal government to learn if HVAC contractors have any local licensing requirements. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new model, energy efficiency, features, brand, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

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