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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
If you're like most Americans, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. It's important that the heating and cooling systems in your Bernardsville home are functioning optimally, so you can avoid spending more than necessary.
We've compiled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Bernardsville to help you hire the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
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:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,968-$5,016 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,987-$7,346 | |
Heat Pump | $3,087-$31,458 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $258-$431 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$172 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,292-$3,875 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$215 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $413-$1,033 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. 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, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what 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.
In New Jersey, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors. All contractors must be bonded and must participate in continuing education, and individuals who operate an HVAC business must have general liability insurance. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, brand, and features. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reputable HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, bearing in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Get written bids before starting HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, like leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want 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 purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In general, 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 might choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: