10 Best HVAC Companies in Farmington, MI

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:

• Higher than normal energy bills
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Farmington

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 doesn’t have the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to manage temperature. These 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 electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work more effectively in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, usually in a basement or attic. This unit is often compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different maintenance services. Fees for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get out of hand.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows most effectively through your HVAC system when you replace or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also try not to let debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.
• 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 lower the work required from your house's HVAC system.
• 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 whenever it begins to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors 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 on a state-by-state basis.

HVAC contractors in Michigan are required to be licensed as Mechanical Contractors via the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Contractors must have at least three years of experience and must pass an exam. You can verify a license on LARA's website. Checking reviews on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, brand, features, model, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written estimates before beginning HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.