10 Best HVAC Companies in Madison, OH

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

• Refrigerant leaks
• Corrosion, rust, or cracking
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Strange noises when turning on
• Unusually high energy bills
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

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

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Madison

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn't have the right ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of interior units that control the temperature in individual rooms. These interior units are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either electricity or gas as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they perform best in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller houses. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, typically located in an attic or basement. They're compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the outside areas of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help lower the work required from your house's HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, grills, indoor evaporator coil, and condenser fan blades 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 starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor 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 on a state-by-state basis.

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 requirements. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the specific parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, and brand. Before signing paperwork, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the company that provides the greatest protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A thorough quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.