Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Help us match you with local pros in your area
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Join more than 640 people who have gotten a free quote in the past week.
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. In Fuquay-Varina, you're probably looking to reduce your energy usage and save money on your bills.
Our guide to Fuquay-Varina's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
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:
If your HVAC system is faulty or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,924-$4,906 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,899-$7,184 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,019-$30,766 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $253-$421 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,263-$3,790 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $84-$211 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $404-$1,011 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
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 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they plan 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.
HVAC contractors in North Carolina must be licensed by the State Board of Examiners of Plumbing, Heating and Fire Sprinkler Contractors. A licensed firm may employ individuals who aren't all individually licensed; however, all work must be supervised by a licensed contractor. A contractor may hold multiple different licenses for different types of jobs. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new brand, features, estimated installation time, model, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Fuquay-Varina, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective for cooling than window units.
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). In Fuquay-Varina, 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:
