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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 invested in heating and cooling your O'Hara home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to O'Hara's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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 attention from a professional who can make fixes or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different maintenance services. Prices for some common services 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 |
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 | $61-$162 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,217-$3,651 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$203 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $389-$973 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
When hiring an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper 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 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 the type 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 contracting company has a valid Pennsylvania business license. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. You'll want to select a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new model, estimated installation time, features, brand, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, be 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.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection within your budget.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could also consider a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: