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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In Grand Rapids, you're probably looking to reduce this energy expense and save money.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've put together this guide to the best HVAC companies in Grand Rapids.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
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 HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,909-$4,867 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,868-$7,127 | |
Heat Pump | $2,995-$30,521 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $251-$418 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$167 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,253-$3,760 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$209 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $401-$1,003 |
Finding the right HVAC company is vital for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states 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 on a state-by-state basis.
In Michigan, HVAC contractors must 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. Licenses can be verified on LARA's website. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new brand, energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, and model. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection within your budget.
Get written estimates before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice yearly. After the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically 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 is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 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 should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you might consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to find out what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: