10 Best HVAC Companies in Dover, NH

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. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:

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

If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Dover

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you likely have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to utilize energy from either electric or gas sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate warm and cold air between your home and outside. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they perform best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. They have a single heating and cooling unit, normally in an attic or basement. This unit is often compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows effective air circulation through your HVAC system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outdoor sections of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, grills, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all contractors who "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 by the state.

New Hampshire doesn't have specific state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. However, in certain cases, a contractor may require a Fuel Gas Fitting or Oil Heating Technician license from the Mechanical Safety and Licensing Board. You will also want to verify whether there are local licensing requirements in your city or municipality. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Look for a a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, and brand. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the best protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.