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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. You don't want to spend more than necessary on temperature control in your Hickory home, so it's important to make sure all systems are functioning properly.
Our guide to Hickory's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
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 malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,782-$4,544 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,612-$6,654 | |
Heat Pump | $2,797-$28,496 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $234-$390 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $59-$156 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,170-$3,510 | |
Thermostat Repair | $78-$195 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $374-$936 |
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 fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. 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 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 at the state level.
In North Carolina, HVAC contractors must be licensed by 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 kinds of jobs. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and model. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the most protection within your budget.
Get written estimates before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. After the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's smart to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You may also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
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 may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. 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'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Hickory, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company might have financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.