Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. With Newburyport's higher cost of living, you're likely eager to reduce your energy bills.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Newburyport can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
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 faulty or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,997-$5,092 | |
| Hybrid Split | $4,047-$7,457 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,134-$31,933 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $262-$437 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $66-$175 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,311-$3,934 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $87-$219 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $420-$1,049 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.
The state of Massachusetts doesn't have state-level HVAC contractor licensing requirements. However, HVAC technicians who work on certain cooling jobs may require a Refrigeration Technician License for larger projects.
It's also important to check with your city or municipal government to find out if there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Choose a company with positive reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, features, model, estimated installation time, and brand. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
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 the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the most protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's smart to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing how much power your HVAC system uses to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as you can and avoid making drastic changes in the temperature — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes around one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want 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 purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Newburyport, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may 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.
