10 Best HVAC
in Lexington, MA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken 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
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Lexington

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

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control frequently have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units 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 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 more suited to more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work best in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, commonly located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically space-saving, energy-efficient, and straightforward to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. Prices 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 methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning indoor evaporator coil, grills, condenser fan blades, and ductwork helps your HVAC system run efficiently and reduces your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Changing your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows smooth air circulation through your HVAC system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outside components of your HVAC.
• 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.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, lets you resolve them before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience 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

Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. 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 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 important to check with your city or municipal government to learn if there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. You'll want to select a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new brand, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, and model. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.