10 Best HVAC Companies in Burlington, NC

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:

• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Burlington

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork can't accommodate a central HVAC system, you likely have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions in the same way as a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to utilize energy from either electric or gas sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate warm and cold air between your home and outside. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they work best in moderate climates and may not be as effective during Burlington's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a practical choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in a basement or attic. They're space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, grills, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil clean helps your system run and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows through your HVAC system most effectively when you change out or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also try not to let debris pile up on the outside areas of your HVAC.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both lowers the amount of work your HVAC system is required to do.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what 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 on a state-by-state basis.

In North Carolina, HVAC contractors must be licensed via the State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors. Not all individuals who work for a licensed firm need to be individually licensed; however, all work must be supervised by a licensed contractor. A contractor may hold multiple different licenses for different jobs. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new estimated installation time, model, brand, features, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services 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 company that provides the most protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

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