10 Best HVAC Companies in Reading, MA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:

• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Unusually high energy bills
• Corrosion, rust, or cracking
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Refrigerant leaks
• Strange noises when turning on
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Reading

HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn't have the right ductwork for central heating or air, you likely have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of indoor units that control the temperature in individual rooms, and that are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions in the same way as a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't generate their own heat or AC, so they perform best in mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller homes. They have a single heating and cooling unit, normally in a basement or attic. This unit is often space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent some heat from getting inside. Doing both helps lessen the strain on your HVAC.
• Change filters regularly. Changing your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows efficient air circulation through your HVAC system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outside components of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, grills, condenser fan blades, and indoor evaporator coil regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from 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.

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 learn if there are any local licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with positive reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and explain 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 the contractor to describe the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, brand, and features. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.