10 Best HVAC Companies in Haverford, PA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

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 indicators that your system requires expert attention:

• Unusually high energy bills
• Strange noises when turning on
• Cracking, rust, or corrosion
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Refrigerant leaks
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Haverford

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for central heating and cooling often have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions in the same way as a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to draw power from either electric or gas sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by transferring hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't produce heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more suited to more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are often a good option for smaller homes. They consist of a single heating and cooling unit that's normally located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

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

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, and grills clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows effective air circulation through your HVAC system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outdoor sections of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Opening your blinds in winter allows passive solar heat into your house. Closing your blinds in summer blocks some heat from getting indoors. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your house's HVAC system.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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 to work on specific projects. You can also verify whether a contracting company has a valid Pennsylvania business license. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, model, and features. Before signing paperwork, 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.

Compare Warranties

Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.