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 typical American homeowner, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. Gulf Hills' hot summer weather probably mean that your energy bill is higher during the warmer months. The average resident spends $120 every month cooling their home.
We've compiled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Gulf Hills to help you choose the best 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
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
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:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,758-$4,481 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,562-$6,562 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,758-$28,100 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $231-$385 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $58-$154 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,154-$3,462 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $77-$192 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $369-$923 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of 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.
HVAC contractors and subcontractors in Mississippi must be licensed by the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. To be licensed, contractors must provide proof of general liability insurance. They must also have workers' compensation insurance if they have above a certain number of employees. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, features, and brand. 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 back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the most protection within your budget.
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.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. 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 strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any door or window leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. 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 be based on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
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 Gulf Hills, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
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 Gulf Hills, you'll likely need a unit on the higher end of this range. Usually, 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 through 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 a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
