Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. In Fairmont, much of your energy expenses probably come from running your heat in the winter. The average resident spends $180 on heating every month.
Our guide to Fairmont's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Clear pricing policy
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Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Award_winning
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
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:
If your HVAC system is having issues or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different maintenance services. Fees for some common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,896-$4,832 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,841-$7,076 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,974-$30,305 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $249-$415 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$166 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,244-$3,733 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$207 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $398-$996 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. 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. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. 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 plan 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 by the state.
There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in Minnesota, 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 Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new model, brand, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and features. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Reputable HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically 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 don't make drastic temperature changes — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you're able to, try switching to 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 may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Fairmont, you'll likely look for a furnace on the higher end of or above this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Fairmont, a unit with a lower capacity may be sufficient. Generally, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you might consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine 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:
