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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. Energy costs in Dorr tend to be higher than in some other places, meaning that you'd probably like to save money on your bill.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Dorr can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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:
If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,884-$4,802 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,817-$7,033 | |
Heat Pump | $2,956-$30,117 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$412 |
It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, 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 | $62-$165 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,237-$3,710 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $396-$989 |
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.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from 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 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 on a state-by-state basis.
HVAC contractors in Michigan are required to be licensed as Mechanical Contractors by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Contractors must have at least three years of experience and pass an exam. Licenses can be verified on LARA's website. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
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 your system afterward to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask your installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, model, and features. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's best to 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 likely sees the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing how much power your HVAC system uses to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as is comfortable and don't make drastic changes in the temperature — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase 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. In Dorr, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. Generally, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: