10 Best HVAC Companies in Kettering, OH

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

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

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

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Kettering

HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either electricity or gas as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate warm and cold air between your home and outside. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they function best in mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work best in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, typically located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically space-saving, energy-efficient, and straightforward to maintain.

The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and might 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 repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and grills regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Opening your blinds in winter allows passive solar heat into your house. Closing your blinds in summer blocks some heat from getting indoors. Both of these measures help lower the work required from your house's HVAC system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get out of hand.
• Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the external parts of your system.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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 make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain 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.

Check Credentials

When looking for an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper 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 all technicians 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.

HVAC contractors in Ohio are licensed by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board. To obtain a license, contractors need to have at least five years of experience, have a minimum amount of contractor liability coverage, and pass an exam. Your local jurisdiction may have additional licensing requirements. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You want to hire a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new brand, features, model, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the greatest protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written quotes before starting HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.