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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You want to be comfortable in your Reading home, but you also don't want to waste your money on inefficient cooling and heating.
A top HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've put together this guide to the best HVAC companies in Reading.
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on hvac companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,921-$4,898 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,893-$7,172 | |
Heat Pump | $3,014-$30,715 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $252-$420 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC 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.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,261-$3,784 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$210 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $404-$1,009 |
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 heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind 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, carry a minimum amount of contractor liability coverage, and pass an exam. Specific jurisdictions may have additional requirements. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for a a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new model, brand, energy efficiency, features, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could also consider a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: