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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Since such a significant portion of your utility bill goes toward heating and cooling, you'll want to ensure that the HVAC system in your Cheektowaga home is functioning properly.
Our list of Cheektowaga'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
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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 faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is 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 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,236-$3,707 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $395-$988 |
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 keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of 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 on a state-by-state basis.
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 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 reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with positive reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and features. Before signing a contract, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and 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 HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also call a technician 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.
Normally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. 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 — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes around one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for 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 to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Cheektowaga, a unit with a lower capacity 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 might offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart 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 a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: