10 Best HVAC Companies in Dormont, PA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:

• Refrigerant leaks
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Odd noises when turning on
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Dormont

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for central air often have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of interior units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move warm and cool air between your home and the outside. These systems don't make their own heat or AC, so they work better in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller houses. They have a single cooling and heating unit, usually in a basement or attic. This unit is often space-saving, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and grills clean helps your system run and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outdoor sections of your system.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months allows passive solar heating to warm your home. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent some heat from getting inside. Doing both helps reduce the strain on your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When picking an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. 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." 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.

There are no state-level requirements for general HVAC licensing in Pennsylvania; 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. Checking reviews on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after finishing the work to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new brand, estimated installation time, model, features, and energy efficiency. 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

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 offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.