10 Best HVAC Companies in Lima, OH

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:

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

These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Lima

The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by providing the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move hot and cold air between your home and outside. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work more effectively in more mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are often a good option for smaller homes. Packaged systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit, usually located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different maintenance services. Fees for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, 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.

• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the external sections of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the winter helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent the same heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the demand on your HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your grills, ductwork, condenser fan blades, and indoor evaporator coil clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

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, individuals must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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.

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. Specific jurisdictions may have additional requirements. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of good customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

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

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.