10 Best HVAC Companies in Plaistow, NH

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:

• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Rust, corrosion, or cracking
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Plaistow

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control often have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of indoor units in each room to control temperature, which all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by providing the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cool air between your home and outside. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller homes. They consist of a single heating and cooling unit, typically located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outdoor sections of your system.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and ductwork clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• 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 frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual 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.

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. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You want to hire a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, features, and brand. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Look at 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 Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.