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 energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You want to be comfortable in your Zebulon home, but you also don't want to waste your money on inefficient cooling and heating.
Our list of Zebulon's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
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An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement.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 indicators that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different maintenance services. Costs for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,924-$4,906 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,899-$7,184 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,019-$30,766 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $253-$421 |
It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,263-$3,790 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $84-$211 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $404-$1,011 |
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 heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. 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.
In North Carolina, HVAC contractors 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 types of jobs. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company 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 detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, features, estimated installation time, brand, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets 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 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 avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
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 Zebulon, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Zebulon, you'll likely need something on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
