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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 Detroit Lakes home, but you also don't want to waste your money on inefficient heating and cooling.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in Detroit Lakes to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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:
If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,951-$4,975 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,954-$7,285 | |
Heat Pump | $3,062-$31,198 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $256-$427 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are 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 | $64-$171 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,281-$3,843 | |
Thermostat Repair | $85-$214 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $410-$1,025 |
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 for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When selecting an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
Minnesota doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors, although all contractors must 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. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.
Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, brand, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and features. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new 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 have your HVAC system inspected 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 during the winter by reducing how much power your HVAC system uses to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as you can and don't make drastic changes in the temperature — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Detroit Lakes, you can probably make do with a unit on the lower end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally 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 Detroit Lakes, you may need a higher-capacity furnace.
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through 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 find out what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: