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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. You don't want to spend more than you need to on heating and cooling your Hillside home, so it's critical that all systems are functioning properly.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Hillside can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Watch out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,996-$5,089 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,045-$7,452 | |
Heat Pump | $3,132-$31,912 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $262-$437 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $66-$175 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,310-$3,931 | |
Thermostat Repair | $87-$218 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $419-$1,048 |
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.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When picking an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. 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, and individuals who operate an HVAC business must have general liability insurance. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new features, brand, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and model. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, bearing in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, like unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it 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 possible, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You may also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase 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 an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In general, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: