Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. It's important that the heating and cooling systems in your Havre home are functioning properly, so that you don't spend more than you need to.
A top HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've put together this guide to the best HVAC companies in Havre.
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make repairs or install a new unit. Look out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and might 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 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $61-$163 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,226-$3,678 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$204 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $392-$981 |
Finding the right HVAC company is vital for a successful installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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 by the state.
Normally, all Montana contractors are required to register with the Department of Labor and Industry. Independent contractors can apply for exemption. If a company has employees, it must have workers' compensation insurance. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new brand, estimated installation time, model, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection within your budget.
Get written estimates before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, it's a good idea to 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 likely 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 you can 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 roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be affected 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 should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Havre, you'll probably want a furnace on the higher end of (or even above) this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Havre, a unit with a lower capacity may be sufficient. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might have financing options via 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 find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
