Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. You don't want to spend more than necessary on temperature control in your Alden home, so it's critical that all systems are working properly.
Browse our guide to the top HVAC companies in Alden to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
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:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or outdated likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,788-$4,558 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,623-$6,674 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,805-$28,583 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $235-$391 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $59-$156 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,174-$3,521 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $78-$196 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $376-$939 |
Finding the right HVAC company is vital for a smooth installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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 at the state level.
There is no state-level HVAC licensing in New York; however, there may be local requirements, so be sure to check with your city or municipal government. For example, in some cases, a technician may need a High Pressure Boiler Operating Engineer or Oil Burning Equipment Installer license from the NYC Department of Buildings, or a Certificate of Qualification for Refrigerating System Operating Engineer from the Fire Department of New York. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.
Always make sure you know the details of your project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new brand, features, estimated installation time, model, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, be sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during 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 sees the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as is comfortable and avoid making drastic temperature changes — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. 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 be based on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want 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 around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Alden, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options through a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
