10 Best HVAC Companies in Chester, OH

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is having issues or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

• Higher than normal energy bills
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Chester

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn't have the right ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of indoor units that regulate the temperature in individual rooms. These interior units are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions in the same way as a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to utilize energy from either electric or gas sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate hot and cool air between your home and outside. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work best in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller houses. They have a single heating and cooling unit, normally in an attic or basement. This unit is often space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends 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:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and ductwork helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and reduces your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your heating and cooling system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows smooth air circulation through your system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the external parts of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is vital for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

When looking for an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the right 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 mandatory for any individual who helps "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 on a state-by-state basis.

In Ohio, HVAC contractors are licensed by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board. To obtain a license, contractors must have at least five years of experience, possess a minimum amount of contractor liability coverage, and pass an exam. Specific jurisdictions may have additional licensing requirements. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new features, model, estimated installation time, brand, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair work and equipment 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 Quote in Writing

Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.