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Last Updated: February 25, 2025
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. With Lancaster's higher cost of living, you're probably eager to save money on your energy bills.
Our list of Lancaster's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
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Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User 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 malfunctioning or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the 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 | $1,947-$4,962 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,944-$7,266 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,054-$31,119 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $256-$426 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,278-$3,833 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $85-$213 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $409-$1,022 |
Finding the right HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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, many cities and municipalities have their own requirements, so be sure to check with your local 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 check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the exact parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new model, estimated installation time, brand, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, bearing in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing how much power your HVAC system uses 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're able to, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Lancaster, you can probably make do with a unit on the lower end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
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