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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. You want your Kingston home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to waste your money on inefficient heating and cooling.
A top HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've put together this guide to the best HVAC companies in Kingston.
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on hvac companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
If your HVAC system is broken 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:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,005-$5,110 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,062-$7,484 | |
Heat Pump | $3,145-$32,048 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $263-$439 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $66-$175 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,316-$3,948 | |
Thermostat Repair | $88-$219 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $421-$1,053 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
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 set by 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 on a state-by-state basis.
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.
You should also 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, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new estimated installation time, model, brand, energy efficiency, and features. 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.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get a written estimate 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.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider installing a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: