Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. When you live in Half Moon, a good deal of your energy spending probably goes toward your summer air conditioning bill — the average resident spends approximately $91 monthly.
We've put together this guide to Half Moon's top HVAC companies to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
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 professional attention from a technician who can make repairs or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,756-$4,476 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,558-$6,555 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,755-$28,071 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $231-$384 |
It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $58-$154 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,153-$3,458 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $77-$192 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $369-$922 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors 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 the 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 by the state.
HVAC contractors in North Carolina are required to 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. Always check a company'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.
Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new energy efficiency, features, model, estimated installation time, and brand. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.
Get written estimates before starting HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are 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, 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 you can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Half Moon, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Half Moon, you'll likely look for something on the higher end of this range. In general, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company 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:
