10 Best HVAC Companies in Stoneham, MA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires professional attention:

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

Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Stoneham

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you likely have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units all connect 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 electric or gas sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate warm and cold air between your home and outside. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they function best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller homes. They have a single heating and cooling unit, typically in an attic or basement. This unit is often compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC upkeep is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your home’s HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows smooth air circulation through your HVAC system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outdoor sections of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your grills, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and condenser fan blades clean enables your HVAC system to function properly and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your home's HVAC when you notice it starting to get dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keep an eye on your system for issues, for example by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills. This allows you to address problems before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

When looking for an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. 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 need 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. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after finishing the work to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new features, brand, estimated installation time, model, 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

Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.

Get Quote in Writing

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