10 Best HVAC Companies in Hillsborough, NJ

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:

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

Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Hillsborough

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move hot and cold air between your home and outside. These systems don't make their own heat or AC, so they work better in milder climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller houses. They consist of a single heating and cooling unit, typically located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows best through your HVAC system when you replace or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also try not to let debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and grills regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When looking for an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians 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.

HVAC contractors in New Jersey 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 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Look for a a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are finished to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the installation company describe the new model, features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and brand. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, while remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written bids before starting HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.