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, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. You want your Lincolnton home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on inefficient cooling and heating.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Lincolnton.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
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
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
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 home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,844-$4,701 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,737-$6,885 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,893-$29,483 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $242-$404 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $61-$161 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,211-$3,632 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $81-$202 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $387-$969 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable 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.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When looking for an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. 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. 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 jobs. Checking reviews on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, features, and model. 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.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A thorough quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, leaks, 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 generally 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 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 you comfortably can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes around 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 might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be influenced 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 should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Lincolnton, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will generally 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 Lincolnton, 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 could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
