10 Best HVAC Companies in New Rochelle, NY

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:

• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Cracking, rust, or corrosion
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Book an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in New Rochelle

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the right ductwork for central heating or air, you probably have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of indoor units that control the temperature in individual rooms, and that are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by providing the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer hot and cold air between your house and the outdoors. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work more effectively in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, typically located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically compact, energy-efficient, and straightforward to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows most effectively through your HVAC system when you replace or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also try not to let debris pile up on the outdoor parts of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and condenser fan blades regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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 maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

When selecting an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians 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 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 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 a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require 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 installation company describe the new model, features, energy efficiency, brand, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.