Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 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. It's important to make sure the temperature control systems in your Brunswick home are functioning optimally, so that you don't spend more than you need to.
Our guide to Brunswick's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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:
If your HVAC system is having issues or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can evaluate your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different maintenance services. Prices for some common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,899-$4,842 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,848-$7,090 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,980-$30,362 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $249-$416 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Fortunately, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$166 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,247-$3,740 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$208 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $399-$997 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they plan 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 on a state-by-state basis.
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 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. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. You'll want to select a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to provide details on the new model, estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, and features. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable 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 proposal before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice yearly. After the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected 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 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.
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 Brunswick, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. In general, 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 may be able to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
