10 Best HVAC Companies in Upper Hanover, PA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:

• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Unusually high energy bills
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Refrigerant leaks
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• 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 identify problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Upper Hanover

HVAC installation or maintenance prices 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 functions comparably to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by providing the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate hot and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they perform best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work best in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, commonly located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically space-saving, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be pricey. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.

• 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 the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the winter helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent some heat from getting inside. Doing both helps lessen the strain on your HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, and grills 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 when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months 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.

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

Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "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 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 want to hire a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask your installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, brand, and features. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the most protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

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