10 Best HVAC Companies in Monroeville, PA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:

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

If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Monroeville

HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions very similarly to a standard split system. It has the benefit of having the capability to use either electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't create their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, typically located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically compact, cost-effective, and straightforward to maintain.

The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, grills, ductwork, and condenser fan blades 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 when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Changing your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows smooth air circulation through your HVAC system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outside components of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leave your blinds open so your home benefits from passive solar heat. In summer, keep blinds shut to block out heat. Doing both lowers the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper 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, an individual must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend 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.

There are no state-level requirements for general HVAC licensing in Pennsylvania; however, there may be local licensing requirements or certifications required to work on specific projects. You can also confirm whether a contracting company has a valid Pennsylvania business license. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of great customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, features, and brand. Before signing a contract, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the best protection for the fairest price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.