10 Best HVAC Companies in Macedonia, OH

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires expert attention:

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

Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can evaluate your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Macedonia

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have internal units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions very similarly to a standard split system. It has the advantage of being able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by transferring hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't produce heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more effective in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, normally located in a basement or attic. They're compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Costs for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, helps you resolve them before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, grills, condenser fan blades, and indoor evaporator coil regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it begins to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows efficient air circulation through your HVAC system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outdoor sections of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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 maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

When picking 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 by the state.

In Ohio, HVAC contractors 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 requirements. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are completed to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new estimated installation time, model, brand, energy efficiency, and features. 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 coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the best protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

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