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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 Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. Since heating and cooling represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Utica home is functioning properly.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the best HVAC companies in Utica.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Look out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,775-$4,526 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,597-$6,627 | |
Heat Pump | $2,785-$28,381 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $233-$388 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Fortunately, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $58-$155 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,165-$3,496 | |
Thermostat Repair | $78-$194 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $373-$932 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for a successful installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Describe 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.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper 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, contractors 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, 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. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Look for a a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
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 your system after repairs are finished to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new estimated installation time, brand, features, energy efficiency, and model. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the best protection at a reasonable price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. 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 are generally less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally 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 avoid making drastic changes in the temperature — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes around one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Utica, you can probably make do with a unit that's on the lower end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: