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Last Updated: February 25, 2025
According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. In Amherst, you're probably looking to reduce your energy usage and save money.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Amherst can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
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Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
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 nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance will vary depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,882-$4,798 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,814-$7,026 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,953-$30,089 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$412 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,236-$3,707 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $395-$988 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Describe 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 providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary training and licenses. 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 by the state.
There is no state-level HVAC licensing in New York; however, many cities and municipalities have their own requirements, so be sure to check with your local 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 Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the most protection at a reasonable price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it 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 you can and don't make drastic temperature changes — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Amherst, you'll probably be fine with a unit that's on the lower end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Usually, HVAC financing is offered 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 to you and appropriate for your situation.
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