10 Best HVAC Companies in Olmsted, 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. Watch for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:

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

If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Olmsted

The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units 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 is able to utilize either gas or electricity as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cool air between your house and outside. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, typically located in a basement or attic. They're compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, condenser fan blades, and grills clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get out of hand.
• 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 decrease the work required from your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the external parts of your system.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial 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

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain 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

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states 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.

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, possess a minimum amount of contractor liability coverage, and pass an exam. Specific jurisdictions may have additional requirements. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, brand, 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

Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection for the fairest price.

Get Quote in Writing

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