10 Best HVAC Companies in Tobyhanna, PA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:

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

These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Tobyhanna

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to manage 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 advantage of having the capability to use either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate warm and cold air between your home and outside. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they function best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller houses. They have a single heating and cooling unit, typically in an attic or basement. This unit is often small, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common 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 steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.

• 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 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 frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outdoor sections of your system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning 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 contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they plan 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 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 to work on specific projects. You can also confirm whether a company has a valid Pennsylvania business license. Reviewing feedback on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of your project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask your installation company to provide details on the new energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, features, and brand. Before work begins, 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 stand behind their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written estimates before beginning HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.