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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Paterson home, you want to know that you're getting the best return on your investment.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Paterson.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
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 is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Prices for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,915-$4,882 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,880-$7,149 | |
Heat Pump | $3,004-$30,615 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $251-$419 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,257-$3,771 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$210 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $402-$1,006 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states 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.
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. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of your project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new features, model, energy efficiency, brand, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
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 review all terms before signing a contract.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system 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. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to 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 the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Your HVAC company may provide financing options through a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: