Help us match you with local pros in your area
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
More than 730 people have received a free quote in the last 60 days.
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. You don't want to spend more than necessary on cooling and heating your Green home, so it's critical that all systems are functioning properly.
Our guide to Green's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
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:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,921-$4,898 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,893-$7,172 | |
Heat Pump | $3,014-$30,715 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $252-$420 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,261-$3,784 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$210 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $404-$1,009 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When selecting an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to 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.
HVAC contractors in Ohio are licensed by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board. To obtain a license, contractors must have at least five years of experience, have a minimum amount of contractor liability coverage, and pass an exam. Specific jurisdictions may have additional licensing requirements. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. You'll want to select a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, brand, features, estimated installation time, and model. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You may also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit 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 runs into 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).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Usually, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may provide financing options through a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: