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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. With Bow's cold winters, you likely feel as though you're spending even more than that. The average monthly heating bill for a resident of Bow is $180.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Bow's top HVAC companies to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
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 HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,945-$4,959 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,941-$7,261 | |
Heat Pump | $3,052-$31,097 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $255-$426 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,277-$3,831 | |
Thermostat Repair | $85-$213 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $409-$1,022 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Explain 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 providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.
New Hampshire doesn't have specific state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. However, in certain cases, a contractor may require a Oil Heating Technician or Fuel Gas Fitting license from the Mechanical Safety and Licensing Board. You should also verify whether there are local licensing requirements in your city or municipality. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with positive reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new brand, model, energy efficiency, features, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, 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 probably 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 changes in the temperature — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, try switching to 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 can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Bow, 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 between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Bow, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. Usually, 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: