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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 Department of Energy. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Carnot-Moon home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
We've compiled this guide to Carnot-Moon's top HVAC companies to help you choose the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Look out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,854-$4,725 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,756-$6,920 | |
Heat Pump | $2,908-$29,635 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $243-$406 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$162 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,217-$3,651 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$203 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $389-$973 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what 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 at the state level.
Pennsylvania doesn't have state-level requirements for general HVAC licensing. However, there may be local licensing requirements or certifications required for specific projects. You can also verify whether a company has a valid Pennsylvania business license. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, brand, and model. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Trustworthy 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 gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. An itemized quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You may 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 an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for 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. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. 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: