10 Best HVAC Companies in Highlands, NY

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is faulty or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

• Unusually high energy bills
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Cracking, rust, or corrosion
• Strange noises when turning on
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• 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 detect problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Highlands

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to manage temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but is able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, typically located in an attic or basement. They're small, energy-efficient, 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 repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the winter helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent some heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the strain on your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and grills helps your HVAC system run efficiently and reduces your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows efficient air circulation through your HVAC system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the external parts of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.

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. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You want to hire a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the exact parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and model. Before signing a contract, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written quotes before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.