10 Best HVAC Companies in Gloucester, 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
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Gloucester

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties 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 interior units in each room to manage temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions very similarly to a standard split system. It has the benefit of having the capability to use either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer hot and cold air between your home and the outside. These systems don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work better in milder climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, normally in a basement or attic. This unit is often space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, grills, and ductwork helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your heating and cooling system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the external sections of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, lets you resolve them before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is vital for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

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

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

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

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new brand, energy efficiency, model, features, and estimated installation time. 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

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

Get Quote in Writing

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