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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In Minneapolis, you're probably looking to reduce your energy expenses and save money.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Minneapolis to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
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 near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,058-$5,246 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,170-$7,682 | |
Heat Pump | $3,229-$32,899 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $270-$450 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $68-$180 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,351-$4,053 | |
Thermostat Repair | $90-$225 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $432-$1,081 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
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, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When selecting an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the proper 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 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 the type 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 verify that your contractor meets all requirements. Checking reviews on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, model, and brand. Before work starts, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get written bids before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, like strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is 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 don't make drastic temperature changes — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you're able to, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician discovers.
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 Minneapolis, you'll be better off going with 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 around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Minneapolis, a unit with a lower capacity may be sufficient. Typically, 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 offer these options, 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 to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: