10 Best HVAC Companies in Salisbury, MA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken 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:

• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Refrigerant leaks
• Unusually high energy bills
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you see any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Salisbury

HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork can't accommodate a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions very similarly to a standard split system. It has the advantage of being able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cool air between your home and outside. They don't create their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, commonly located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically compact, cost-effective, and straightforward to maintain.

The price of 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 make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and grills clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This allows you to address issues before they get out of hand.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what kind of equipment they plan 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.

There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in Massachusetts. 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 HVAC contractors have any local licensing requirements. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Choose a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about great customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new brand, features, model, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

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