Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. Energy costs in Rochester tend to be higher than in some other places, which means you'd probably like to save money on your bill.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Rochester can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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 not working properly or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that 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 diagnose problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,904-$4,853 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,857-$7,107 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,987-$30,434 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $250-$417 |
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 methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$167 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,250-$3,749 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$208 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $400-$1,000 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is key for a successful installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
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 set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what 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 on a state-by-state basis.
There is no state-level HVAC licensing in New York. 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 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. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new model, brand, energy efficiency, features, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's smart 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 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 you can 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, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on factors 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, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Rochester, you'll probably be fine with a unit on the lower end of this range. For homes 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'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Your HVAC company may have financing options through a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
