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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. In Hillsborough, you're likely looking to reduce your energy expenses and save money.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Hillsborough's top HVAC companies to help you hire the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make fixes or install a new unit. Look out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Price ranges for typical 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 |
It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
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 fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type 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 are required to 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, and individuals who operate an HVAC business must have general liability insurance. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You'll want to select a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new features, brand, model, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider purchasing 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 takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician runs into 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. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might provide financing options through a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's smart 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 a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: