Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. You want to be comfortable in your Los Alamos home, but you also don't want to waste your money on inefficient heating and cooling.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in Los Alamos to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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 professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work you're having 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 | $1,781-$4,541 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,609-$6,649 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,794-$28,475 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $234-$390 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $58-$156 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,169-$3,508 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $78-$195 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $374-$935 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies 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, contractors 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 at the state level.
HVAC contractors in New Mexico must obtain an HVAC speciality license from the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department. Contractors must have four years of experience in their field to apply, and must also be bonded. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are finished to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, brand, model, energy efficiency, and features. Before signing a contract, 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. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees 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. 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 might also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
It takes around one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Los Alamos, you'll probably want a furnace on the higher end of or above this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
