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5 Best HVAC
in Butte, MT

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Written By Bradford Cuthrell

Last Updated June 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, a large percent of your energy costs are probably spent running your heat in the winter. The average resident spends $180 on heating every month.

Browse our guide to the top HVAC companies in Butte to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.

Top 5 Best HVAC Companies in Butte

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Merit Mechanical Services

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1601 A St, Helena, MT 59601 (406) 443-1150 meritmt.com

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Ac installation
Maintenance
Ductless
Furnace installation
Ac repair

Intermountain Heating and Air Conditioning

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1751 E Lyndale Ave, Helena, MT 59601 (406) 449-4567 intermountainheating.com

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Ac installation
Smart home integration
Furnace installation

copper city Sheet Metal

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109 E Commercial Ave, Anaconda, MT 59711 (406) 563-7642 coppercitysheetmetal.com

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Ac repair

Ridgeline Heating and Cooling

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1001 E Front St, Butte, MT 59701 (406) 565-0017 ridgelineheatingandcooling.com

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Ac repair

406 Heating & Cooling, LLC.

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2823 Ashley Ave, East Helena, MT 59635 (406) 475-2888 carrier.com

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Indoor air quality
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

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:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:

  • Cracking, rust, or corrosion
  • Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
  • Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
  • Refrigerant leaks
  • Higher than normal energy bills
  • Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
  • Strange noises when turning on
  • An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Butte

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:

  • Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control frequently have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of internal units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either electricity or gas as energy sources.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps move hot and cold air between your home and the outside. These systems don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work more effectively in milder climates and may not be as effective during Butte's cold winters.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller houses. They consist of a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:

HVAC Unit TypeCost
Split$1,868-$4,761
Hybrid Split$3,784-$6,972
Heat Pump$2,930-$29,858
Packaged Heating and Air$245-$409

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

  • Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, grills, and ductwork helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
  • Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.
  • Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outside areas of your system.
  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both lowers the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
ServiceCost
Filter Replacement$61-$163
Condensor Cleaning$1,226-$3,678
Thermostat Repair$82-$204
Ductwork Cleaning$392-$981

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. 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 what 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 by the state.

Normally, all contractors in Montana need to register with the Department of Labor and Industry. Independent contractors may apply for exemption. All companies with employees must provide proof of workers' compensation insurance. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, brand, energy efficiency, features, and estimated installation time. Before starting the project, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

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

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Butte, MT

You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.

Generally, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. 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 the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as is comfortable and don't make drastic changes in the temperature — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.

Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to 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 need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Butte, you'll probably be fine with a unit on the lower end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to 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 Butte, you might need a higher-capacity furnace.

Your HVAC company may provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain your own loan. 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 a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:

  • Keep ductwork clean, and change or clean your air filters regularly.
  • Have regular inspections to take care of problems as they arise.
  • Keep your attic well-ventilated and make sure all doors and windows are well-sealed.
  • Install a smart thermostat. If you aren't able to purchase one, try keeping your inside temperature as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable.
  • When it comes time to replace any part of your system, explore Energy Star-certified or similar environmentally friendly options.

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