Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. With the cold winters in Lenox, you likely feel like you're spending even more than that. On average, the monthly heating bill for a Lenox resident is $160.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Lenox to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
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 broken or old likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs 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 recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different maintenance services. Fees for common services are 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 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.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,278-$3,833 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $85-$213 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $409-$1,022 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Describe 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.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate 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, individuals must pass an exam (the type of 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 at the state level.
There is no state-level HVAC licensing in New York; 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 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 check reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Choose a company with positive reviews and testimonials about fantastic customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider specify 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 replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, model, and features. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Reputable HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Get written bids before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, 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 are less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it 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.
It takes roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Lenox, you'll likely look for a furnace on the higher end of (or even above) this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Lenox, 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.
Normally, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
