Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It's important that the heating and cooling systems in your Riverhead home are working properly, so that you don't spend more than necessary.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Riverhead can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,948-$4,966 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,947-$7,272 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,056-$31,141 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $256-$426 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,279-$3,836 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $85-$213 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $409-$1,023 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare 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 proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend 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 on a state-by-state basis.
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 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. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider list 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, ask the provider to explain the new model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and features. 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.
Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, 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 HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In general, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
