10 Best HVAC Companies in Park Forest Village, PA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

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

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

If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Park Forest Village

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

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control frequently 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 unit operates similarly 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 outside. These systems don't make their own heat or AC, so they work more efficiently in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller homes. Packaged systems consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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 methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, helps you resolve them before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and grills helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows best through your HVAC system when you change out or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also try not to let debris pile up on the outdoor parts of your HVAC.

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 give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

When selecting an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors 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 on a state-by-state basis.

Pennsylvania doesn't have state-level requirements for general HVAC licensing. 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. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new model, energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, and features. 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 services. 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 starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.