Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In Butte, much of your energy expenses probably come from running your heat in the winter. The average resident spends $180 on heating every month.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Butte can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
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:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will vary depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,868-$4,761 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,784-$6,972 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,930-$29,858 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $245-$409 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $61-$163 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,226-$3,678 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$204 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $392-$981 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain 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.
When hiring an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.
Generally, all Montana contractors are required to register with the Department of Labor and Industry. Independent contractors can apply for exemption. All companies with employees must provide proof of workers' compensation insurance. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Look for a a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the exact parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new model, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, brand, and features. Before signing paperwork, be 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 installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection for the fairest price.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A thorough quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice yearly. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, you should 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 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 — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes around one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Butte, you'll likely look for a furnace on the higher end of (or even above) this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Butte, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. In general, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
