10 Best HVAC Companies in Colonie, NY

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:

• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Odd noises when turning on
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Colonie

HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn't have the right ductwork for central heating or air, you likely have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of internal units that control the temperature in individual rooms, and that are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either gas or electricity as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move warm and cool air between your house and outside. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a practical choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, typically located in an attic or basement. They're compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both decreases the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outside areas of your system.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, grills, indoor evaporator coil, and ductwork clean helps your HVAC system function properly and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC when you notice it starting to get dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor 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. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive reviews and reports of great customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new brand, model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and features. Before work starts, make 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.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will back its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the company that provides the best protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.