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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your West Chester home, you want to ensure that you're getting the best return on your investment.
We've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in West Chester to help you choose the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,846-$4,705 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,740-$6,890 | |
Heat Pump | $2,896-$29,505 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $242-$404 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$162 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,212-$3,635 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$202 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $388-$969 |
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 fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states need to 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
HVAC contractors in Ohio are licensed by the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board. To obtain a license, contractors must 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. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You want to hire a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, features, and model. Before signing a contract, 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.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the company that provides the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
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 agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. 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 once. You might also consider installing a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. Generally, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: