Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like most Americans, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Bethlehem home, you want to ensure that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to Bethlehem's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,975-$5,035 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,002-$7,372 | |
Heat Pump | $3,099-$31,573 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $259-$432 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be pricey. Fortunately, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$173 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,296-$3,889 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$216 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $415-$1,037 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When picking an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the proper 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 required for all contractors who "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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.
The state of New York doesn't have state-level HVAC licensing. 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 an Oil Burning Equipment Installer or High Pressure Boiler Operating Engineer license from the NYC Department of Buildings, or a Certificate of Qualification for Refrigerating System Operating Engineer from the Fire Department of New York. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system afterward to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new brand, energy efficiency, model, features, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
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 offers the best protection within your budget.
Get written estimates before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's smart to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it probably 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 you can, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Bethlehem, you can probably make do with a unit that's on the lower end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective than window units for cooling.
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).
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: