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On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. Since heating and cooling represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your German home is functioning properly.
We've compiled this guide to German's top HVAC companies to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
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An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement.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 signs that your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work you're having 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 | $1,874-$4,778 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,798-$6,997 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,941-$29,966 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $246-$410 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$164 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,230-$3,691 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$205 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $394-$984 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper 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, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific 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.
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. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider specify 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 getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, features, brand, estimated installation time, and model. Before work begins, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's best to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it likely sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider a smart thermostat.
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 can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. 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).
Your HVAC company may have financing options through a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.
