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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. This may not surprise you if you live in Waconia and need to run your heat all winter. On average, residents spend $190 a month on their heating.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Waconia can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
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. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,869-$4,765 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,787-$6,977 | |
Heat Pump | $2,932-$29,880 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $245-$409 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$164 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,227-$3,681 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$204 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $393-$982 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained 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, an individual must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the 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.
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. 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. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, features, 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.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A thorough quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected 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 typically 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 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 can take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Waconia, you can probably make do 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 for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Waconia, you may need a higher-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company might offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.