Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. With so much money invested in cooling and heating your Charlotte home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in Charlotte to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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 attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
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.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,974-$5,031 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,999-$7,367 | |
Heat Pump | $3,096-$31,551 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $259-$432 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$173 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,296-$3,887 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$216 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $415-$1,036 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper 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, an individual 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 at the state level.
In North Carolina, HVAC contractors must be licensed through 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. Contractors may hold multiple different licenses for different types of jobs. Reviewing feedback on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, model, and brand. Before signing paperwork, 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.
Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, bearing in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Charlotte, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually 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 Charlotte, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: