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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 Department of Energy. Energy costs in St. Paul can be steeper than in some other places, which means you're probably trying to save money on your bill.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in St. Paul to help you hire the right person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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 suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs expert attention:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,098-$5,347 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,250-$7,830 | |
Heat Pump | $3,291-$33,533 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $275-$459 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $69-$184 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,377-$4,131 | |
Thermostat Repair | $92-$229 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $441-$1,102 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
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 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor 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 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 be sure to check with your city or municipal government to make sure your contractor meets all requirements. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. You want to hire a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new features, model, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, and brand. Before signing paperwork, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, while remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's best to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. 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 you can and avoid making drastic temperature changes — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, 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 St. Paul, you'll probably be fine 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 than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In St. Paul, you might need a higher-capacity furnace.
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: