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 U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. You don't want to spend more than you need to on heating and cooling your Sparks home, so it's important to make sure all systems are working properly.
A top HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Sparks.
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
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 isn't working correctly or getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,960-$4,997 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,972-$7,317 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,075-$31,335 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $257-$429 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$172 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,287-$3,860 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $412-$1,029 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is key for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. 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 set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors 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 on a state-by-state basis.
In Nevada, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the state – there is no exception for HVAC jobs under a certain dollar amount. This license is issued by the Nevada State Contractors Board. Some work requires an additional speciality license, including any work that involves the installation and maintenance of plumbing. To apply for a license, contractors need to be bonded and insured and need to have four years of experience in their field. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system at the end of the job to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, model, brand, features, and energy efficiency. Before work begins, 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.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the company that provides the greatest protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider getting a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
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).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
