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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. It's important that the temperature control systems in your Elmwood Park home are functioning properly, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Elmwood Park to help you hire the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
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 isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires professional attention:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also depends on the 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:
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 repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are 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 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists 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.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by 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.
In New Jersey, HVAC contractors are required to 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. Individuals who operate an HVAC business must also have general liability insurance. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You'll want to select a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you understand the details of your project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are completed to verify that it’s working properly. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and model. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
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 start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is 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 power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. 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 a time. You could also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
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 look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: