Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. In Kinston, a lot of that energy use likely goes toward cooling your home in the warm summers. In fact, the average Kinston resident spends around $85 monthly on cooling their home.
We've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Kinston to help you hire the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance will vary depending on the type of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,767-$4,504 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,580-$6,595 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,772-$28,244 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $232-$387 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $58-$155 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,160-$3,479 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $77-$193 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $371-$928 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors 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 the 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.
HVAC contractors in North Carolina must be licensed via 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. Contractors may hold multiple different licenses for different jobs. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about great customer experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the specific parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the 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.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the most comprehensive protection within your budget.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. 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 twice yearly. After the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's best to schedule inspections 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 likely sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained 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.
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 between half a day and two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Kinston, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective than window units for cooling.
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 Kinston, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
