Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. It's important that the temperature control systems in your Union home are functioning optimally, so you can avoid spending more than necessary.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Union can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
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An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,737-$4,428 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,520-$6,484 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,725-$27,769 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $228-$380 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $57-$152 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,140-$3,421 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $76-$190 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $365-$912 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial 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.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe 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 companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the 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 at the state level.
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. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are finished to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new brand, estimated installation time, features, model, and energy efficiency. Before signing paperwork, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an 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 strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing how much power your HVAC system uses to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as you can and don't make drastic changes in the temperature — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Union, you'll likely look for a furnace on the higher end of (or even above) this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Union, a unit on the lower end of this range 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.
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
