10 Best HVAC Companies in Watertown, NY

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement.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:

• Higher than normal energy bills
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Refrigerant leaks
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Watertown

HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have interior units in each room to control temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by providing the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, typically located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically space-saving, energy-efficient, and straightforward to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent the same heat from getting inside. Doing both helps reduce the strain on your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, grills, and condenser fan blades regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it begins to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outside areas of your system.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

When selecting an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind 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, 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. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You want to hire a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new energy efficiency, features, brand, estimated installation time, and model. Before signing a contract, be 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.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written proposal 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.