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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. Energy costs in Needham are often higher than in other places, meaning that you'd probably like to save money on your bill.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in Needham to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
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 old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,026-$5,164 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,105-$7,563 | |
Heat Pump | $3,178-$32,387 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $266-$443 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $66-$177 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,330-$3,990 | |
Thermostat Repair | $89-$222 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $426-$1,064 |
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 in your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. 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.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate 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 by the state.
Massachusetts doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. However, HVAC technicians who work on certain cooling jobs may require a Refrigeration Technician License for larger projects.
It's also a good idea to check with your city or municipal government to learn if there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. Reviewing feedback on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new estimated installation time, model, brand, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing paperwork, be 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 offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection within your budget.
Get written estimates before starting HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, like strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be 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. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could also consider a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Usually, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: