10 Best HVAC
in Starkville, MS

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

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. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires expert attention:

• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Refrigerant leaks
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Unusually high energy bills
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Starkville

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork can't accommodate a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either electricity or gas as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work better in moderate climates and may not be as effective during Starkville's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work best in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, commonly located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically space-saving, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This allows you to address problems before they get out of hand.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, grills, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows effective air circulation through your HVAC system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outdoor sections of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate 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 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 at the state level.

In Mississippi, HVAC contractors and subcontractors must be licensed by the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. To be licensed, contractors need to show proof of general liability insurance, as well as workers' compensation insurance if they have above a certain number of employees. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to provide details on the new estimated installation time, features, brand, energy efficiency, and model. Before signing a contract, 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.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the most protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.