Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. It's important to make sure the temperature control systems in your Plattsburgh home are functioning properly, so that you don't spend more than you need to.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Plattsburgh.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
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:
If your HVAC system is having issues or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,762-$4,491 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,570-$6,577 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,764-$28,165 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $231-$386 |
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 | $58-$154 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,157-$3,470 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $77-$193 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $370-$925 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "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 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 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 read reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with positive reviews and reports of fantastic customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, and model. Before work begins, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the greatest protection within your budget.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, you should schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely 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 don't make drastic changes in the temperature — 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 can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Plattsburgh, you'll probably want a furnace on the higher end of (or even above) this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Plattsburgh, a unit with a lower capacity may be sufficient. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
