Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. In Plainsboro, you're probably looking to reduce your energy usage and save money on your bills.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Plainsboro to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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 isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires professional attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,970-$5,021 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,991-$7,352 | |
Heat Pump | $3,090-$31,486 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $259-$431 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$172 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,293-$3,879 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$215 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $414-$1,034 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor'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 proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they plan 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 at the state level.
In New Jersey, HVAC contractors 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. Individuals who operate an HVAC business must also have general liability insurance. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new estimated installation time, energy efficiency, brand, features, and model. Before work starts, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the company that provides the most protection at a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Confirm that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's best to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it likely 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. Always 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 an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
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 to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 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.
Your HVAC company might have financing options via 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.