10 Best HVAC Companies in Rochester Hills, MI

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

• Rust, corrosion, or cracking
• Refrigerant leaks
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Odd noises when turning on
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Rochester Hills

The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have internal units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by transferring warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't generate heat or air conditioning themselves, and are better for more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller houses. They have a single cooling and heating unit, typically in an attic or basement. This unit is often space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and condenser fan blades helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and reduces the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get out of hand.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows best through your HVAC system when you change out or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leave your blinds open so your home benefits from passive solar heat. In summer, keep blinds shut to block out heat. Doing both lowers the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.

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 offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what 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 must be licensed as Mechanical Contractors via the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Contractors need to have at least three years of experience and must pass an exam. You can verify a license on LARA's website. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new estimated installation time, energy efficiency, brand, features, and model. Before signing paperwork, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the best protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

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