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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. With the cold winters in North Adams, you probably feel as though you're spending even more than that. On average, the monthly heating bill for a North Adams resident is $200.
Our guide to North Adams' top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
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 having issues or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will vary depending on the type of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,874-$4,778 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,798-$6,997 | |
Heat Pump | $2,941-$29,966 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $246-$410 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$164 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,230-$3,691 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$205 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $394-$984 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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 on a state-by-state basis.
There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in Massachusetts. 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 there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. You should also 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 provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new brand, features, model, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, 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.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, bearing in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically 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 don't make drastic temperature changes — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, try switching to a smart thermostat.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In North Adams, you'll likely look for a furnace on the higher end of or above this range.
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 North Adams, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: