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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%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. Since such a significant portion of your utility bill goes toward heating and cooling, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Benton Harbor home is functioning optimally.
Our guide to Benton Harbor's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,823-$4,646 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,693-$6,804 | |
Heat Pump | $2,860-$29,138 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $239-$399 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $60-$160 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,196-$3,589 | |
Thermostat Repair | $80-$199 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $383-$957 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors must 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.
In Michigan, HVAC contractors must be licensed as Mechanical Contractors through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Contractors need to have at least three years of experience and must pass an exam. You can verify a license on LARA's website. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new features, model, brand, 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 provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get written quotes before beginning HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could also consider a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly 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 can be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for 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. Typically, if your home is over 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 offer financing, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to 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: