10 Best HVAC Companies in Radnor, PA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Watch out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:

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

Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Radnor

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork can't accommodate a central HVAC system, you likely have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the advantage of being able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work more effectively in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, usually in an attic or basement. This unit is often compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get out of hand.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows most effectively through your HVAC system when you replace or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the outside areas of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, ductwork, grills, and indoor evaporator coil regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and lowers 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. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

When picking an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians 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 what kind 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.

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 verify whether a company has a valid Pennsylvania business license. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You want to hire a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to provide details on the new brand, model, features, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. 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 back their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

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