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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Gaines home, you want to know that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our list of Gaines' top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
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 HVAC system is broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common 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 providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When picking an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians who "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 on a state-by-state basis.
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 pass an exam. Licenses can be verified on LARA's website. You should 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 understand the details of your project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new estimated installation time, model, features, energy efficiency, and brand. Before signing paperwork, make 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.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get written quotes before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is 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 the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You may also consider getting a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician runs into 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 look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In general, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: