10 Best HVAC
in Old Forge, PA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Old Forge

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork can't accommodate a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have interior units in each room to regulate temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by providing the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move hot and cold air between your home and the outside. These systems don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work more effectively in milder climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, usually located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear 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 out of hand.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, grills, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both decreases the amount of work your HVAC system must perform.

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

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. 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 technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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 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 for specific projects. You can also verify whether a company has a valid Pennsylvania business license. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system estimated installation time, features, brand, model, and energy efficiency. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Reputable HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written quotes before starting any HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.