Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It's important that the cooling and heating systems in your Grand Island home are functioning optimally, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Grand Island.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
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:
If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires professional attention:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work being 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 | $1,710-$4,359 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,465-$6,383 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,683-$27,336 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $224-$374 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $56-$150 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,122-$3,367 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $75-$187 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $359-$898 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
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 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what 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 on a state-by-state basis.
The state of Nebraska doesn't have any specific licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. However, all contractors in the state are required to register with the Nebraska Department of Labor, and any companies that have employees must also have workers' compensation insurance. Your city or municipality may have additional licensing requirements, so be sure to check with your local government before signing a contract. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are finished to verify that it’s working properly. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, model, and features. Before starting the project, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to schedule inspections 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 likely sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could also consider a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For a house over 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 should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Usually, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
