Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. It's important that the cooling and heating systems in your Newcastle home are working properly, so you can avoid spending more than necessary.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Newcastle's top HVAC companies to help you hire the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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 home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, identify problems, and figure out whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,723-$4,392 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,491-$6,432 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,703-$27,545 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $226-$377 |
It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $57-$151 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,131-$3,393 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $75-$189 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $362-$905 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' 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 licensure and training. 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.
HVAC contractors in Oklahoma must be licensed by the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board. To complete HVAC work, a contractor can have an HVAC/R limited license (which allows them to work on only smaller jobs) or an HVAC/R unlimited license (which allows them to work on all jobs). Individuals must have four years of experience and must pass an exam to become fully licensed contractors. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.
Always make sure you know the details of your project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new features, estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, and model. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. After the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, you should schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any window or door leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes between one and three days to have your 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 can be affected 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, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Newcastle, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Newcastle, you'll likely need something on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may have financing options through a third-party lender, or you might 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're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
