10 Best HVAC Companies in Wilkinsburg, PA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

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

If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Wilkinsburg

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 lacks the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have internal units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either electricity or gas as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by transferring hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't produce heat or air conditioning themselves, and are better for more moderate 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 an attic or basement. This unit is typically compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change filters regularly. Switching out your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows efficient air circulation through your system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outside components of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keep an eye on your system for issues, for example by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills. This enables you to address problems before they get too expensive.
• 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 reduces the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and ductwork helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and reduces your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a reliable 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 providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what 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 at the state level.

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 confirm whether a contracting company has a valid Pennsylvania business license. Checking reviews on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of your project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, and model. 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

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is 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 written estimates before beginning HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.