Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. In Franklin, a large percent of your energy bill probably goes toward running your heat during the winter. The average resident spends $180 on heating every month.
Our guide to Franklin's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
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 nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is 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 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,277-$3,831 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $85-$213 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $409-$1,022 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is vital for a smooth 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. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they plan 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 by the state.
New Hampshire doesn't have specific state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors. However, some contractors may require a Fuel Gas Fitting or Oil Heating Technician license from the Mechanical Safety and Licensing Board. You will also want to check whether there are local licensing requirements in your city or municipality. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, model, and features. Before work starts, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Reputable HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a fair price.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive 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 about twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's smart 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 during the winter by reducing how much power your HVAC system uses to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as you can and avoid making drastic changes in the temperature — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you're able to, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new 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 Franklin, you'll be better off going with a furnace on the higher end of (or even above) this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Franklin, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. Typically, if your home is over 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 may be able to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
