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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Since such a significant portion of your utility bill goes toward heating and cooling, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Cottage Grove home is functioning properly.
Our guide to Cottage Grove's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
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 home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,029-$5,171 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,110-$7,573 | |
Heat Pump | $3,183-$32,430 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $266-$444 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $67-$178 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,332-$3,995 | |
Thermostat Repair | $89-$222 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $426-$1,065 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. 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. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When picking an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the right 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 mandatory 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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.
Minnesota doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors, although all contractors are required to file a $25,000 mechanical contractor bond with the Department of Labor and Industry. Many areas also have local licensing regulations, so make sure to check with your city or municipal government to make sure your contractor meets all requirements. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the installation company describe the new brand, estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, and features. Before work starts, 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 work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. An itemized quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it gets the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing how much power your HVAC system uses to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as is comfortable and avoid making drastic changes in the temperature — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you're able to, try switching to a smart thermostat.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Cottage Grove, you can probably make do with a unit that's on the lower end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Cottage Grove, you might need a higher-capacity furnace.
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: