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, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With so much money invested in cooling and heating your Indian Trail home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to Indian Trail's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
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 broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,910-$4,868 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,869-$7,129 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,996-$30,528 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $251-$418 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $63-$167 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,254-$3,761 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $84-$209 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $401-$1,003 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies 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 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor 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 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. Contractors may hold multiple different licenses for different kinds of jobs. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Choose a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
It’s important to understand what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new features, model, brand, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. 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.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the best protection for a fair price.
Get written estimates before beginning HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it gets 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 try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained 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.
It takes roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Indian Trail, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to 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 Indian Trail, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
