10 Best HVAC Companies in Southold, 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 maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:

• Unusually high energy bills
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Rust, corrosion, or cracking
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Refrigerant leaks
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Southold

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either gas or electricity as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by circulating hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't create heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more suited to more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are often a good option for smaller houses. Packaged systems consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit that's typically located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.

• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning condenser fan blades, ductwork, grills, and indoor evaporator coil helps your HVAC system run efficiently and reduces the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Changing your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows effective air circulation through your system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outside components of your HVAC.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. 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 air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

When hiring an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states 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." Contractors 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 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 check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are completed to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, features, and model. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.