Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. It's important that the temperature control systems in your Stillwater home are functioning optimally, so that you don't spend more than you need to.
Our list of Stillwater's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
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 home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $2,029-$5,171 | |
| Hybrid Split | $4,110-$7,573 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,183-$32,430 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $266-$444 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $67-$178 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,332-$3,995 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $89-$222 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $426-$1,065 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. 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 the 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 on a state-by-state basis.
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. There may also be local licensing regulations, so be sure to check with your city or municipal government to verify that your contractor meets all requirements. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, brand, model, energy efficiency, and features. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, leaks, 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 during the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is 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 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.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Stillwater, 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 around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Stillwater, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
