10 Best HVAC Companies in Clifton, NJ

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

• Higher than normal energy bills
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Rust, corrosion, or cracking
• Refrigerant leaks
• Odd noises when turning on
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Clifton

HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for central heating and cooling frequently have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of interior units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either gas or electricity as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by transferring warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't produce heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more suited to more moderate 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.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be costly. Luckily, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Change filters regularly. Air flows most effectively through your HVAC system when you change out or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Opening your blinds in winter allows passive solar heat into your house. Closing your blinds in summer blocks some heat from getting indoors. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your house's HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, grills, condenser fan blades, and indoor evaporator coil clean enables your HVAC system to function properly and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association suggests cleaning your home's HVAC system when you notice things starting to get dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get out of hand.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Explain 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 companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of 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 at the state level.

HVAC contractors in New Jersey must be licensed by the Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors. Contractors must be bonded and must participate in ongoing education. Individuals who operate an HVAC business must also have general liability insurance. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Look for a a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new estimated installation time, brand, model, energy efficiency, and features. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.