Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. With the cold winters in Ramsey, you probably feel as though you're spending even more than that. The average monthly heating bill for a resident of Ramsey is $200.
We've compiled this guide to Ramsey's top HVAC companies to help you choose the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
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
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Look out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will vary depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,942-$4,950 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,934-$7,248 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,046-$31,040 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $255-$425 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,275-$3,824 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $85-$212 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $408-$1,020 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend 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 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. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, brand, model, features, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the best protection at a reasonable price.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, you should 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 likely 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 is comfortable 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.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds 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). In Ramsey, 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 to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Ramsey, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
