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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It's important that the temperature control systems in your Northfield home are functioning properly, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in Northfield to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different maintenance services. Costs for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,912-$4,874 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,874-$7,137 | |
Heat Pump | $3,000-$30,564 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $251-$418 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$167 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,255-$3,765 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$209 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $402-$1,004 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
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, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors need to 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 by the state.
In Michigan, HVAC contractors must be licensed as Mechanical Contractors by 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. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new brand, model, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, and features. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a fair cost.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's best 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 likely sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. 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 could also consider a smart thermostat.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for 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 an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these 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 and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: