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, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With so much money invested in heating and cooling your Southport home, you want to ensure that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Browse our guide to the top HVAC companies in Southport to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Look out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Prices for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,736-$4,426 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,518-$6,481 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,724-$27,754 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $228-$380 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $57-$152 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,140-$3,419 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $76-$190 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $365-$912 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor'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 who have the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors need to 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 by the state.
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 check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the specific parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and features. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically 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 temperature changes — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Southport, you can probably make do with a unit that's 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). In Southport, you might need a higher-capacity furnace.
Usually, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
