Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
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 U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With the higher cost of living in Upper Montclair, you're likely eager to find ways to save on your energy bills.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Upper Montclair to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
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 getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs 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 expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,257-$3,771 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$210 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $402-$1,006 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. 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 in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When selecting an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory 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 what kind 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. Contractors must be bonded and must participate in continuing education, and individuals who operate an HVAC business must have general liability insurance. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Choose a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Make sure you know the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new energy efficiency, brand, model, estimated installation time, and features. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.
Get written quotes before starting HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain the temperature of your home. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could 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 can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
Your HVAC company might have financing options through a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart 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 several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: