Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. With so much money invested in cooling and heating your Newton home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Newton.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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 getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need multiple types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs 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 make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $59-$156 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,170-$3,510 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $78-$195 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $374-$936 |
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. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate 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, 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.
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 kinds of jobs. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about fantastic customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, features, and model. Before work starts, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected 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 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. 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 windows and doors to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Newton, 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 to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Newton, you'll likely need something on the higher end of this range. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
