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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Dumont home, you want to know that you're getting the best return on your investment.
We've assembled this guide to Dumont's top HVAC companies to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Services Offered
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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 broken or old likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,928-$4,914 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,906-$7,196 | |
Heat Pump | $3,024-$30,816 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $253-$422 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$169 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,265-$3,796 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$211 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $405-$1,012 |
Finding the right HVAC company is key for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When selecting an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.
In New Jersey, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors. Contractors must be bonded and must participate in continuing education, and individuals who operate an HVAC business must have general liability insurance. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You want to hire a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new brand, model, features, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A full 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 twice yearly. After the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and 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 can be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Your HVAC company may provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's smart 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: