Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It's important to make sure the temperature control systems in your St. Stephens home are working properly, so you can avoid spending more than necessary.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in St. Stephens to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
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:
A faulty 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 signs that your HVAC needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is 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 the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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 at the state level.
In North Carolina, HVAC contractors 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. Contractors may hold multiple different licenses for different types of jobs. Checking reviews on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), 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 HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system afterward to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new estimated installation time, model, features, brand, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, be sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the best protection within your budget.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. 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. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you can, and 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.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In St. Stephens, 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 will usually be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In St. Stephens, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
