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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. You want to be comfortable in your Waterford home, but you also don't want to waste your money on ineffective heating and cooling.
A top HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've assembled this guide to the best HVAC companies in Waterford.
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,959-$4,993 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,969-$7,312 | |
Heat Pump | $3,073-$31,313 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $257-$429 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$171 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,286-$3,857 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $411-$1,029 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When hiring an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required 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.
HVAC contractors in Michigan 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. You can verify a license on LARA's website. 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 great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should detail 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 system, have the provider describe the new estimated installation time, model, features, energy efficiency, and brand. 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.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized 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 yearly. After the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. 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, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's best to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared 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 try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and 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 depend on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
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 between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: