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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It's important to make sure the heating and cooling systems in your Charlotte home are functioning properly, so that you don't spend more than necessary.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Charlotte can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,815-$4,627 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,678-$6,775 | |
Heat Pump | $2,847-$29,015 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $238-$397 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $60-$159 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,191-$3,574 | |
Thermostat Repair | $79-$199 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $381-$953 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of 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 by the state.
In Michigan, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed as Mechanical Contractors via the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Contractors need to have at least three years of experience and pass an exam. You can verify a license on LARA's website. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new features, estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, and model. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. At the time of the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You may also consider getting a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: