10 Best HVAC Companies in Fall River, MA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

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

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

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Fall River

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by 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 likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to draw power from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they perform best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, typically located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC 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.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get out of hand.
• 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 lower the work required from your HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and condenser fan blades clean enables your HVAC system to function effectively and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association suggests cleaning your home's HVAC system when you notice it starting to get dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Changing your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows efficient air circulation through your HVAC 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 heating and cooling for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they intend 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 require a Refrigeration Technician License for larger projects.

It's also a good idea to check with your city or municipal government to find out if HVAC contractors have any local licensing requirements. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new brand, model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and features. Before work starts, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.