Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. With Barrington's higher cost of living, you're likely eager to find ways to save on your energy bills.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Barrington can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on hvac companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
An HVAC system that's broken or old likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will differ depending on the type of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different maintenance services. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,883-$4,800 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,815-$7,029 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,954-$30,103 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$412 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,236-$3,708 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $396-$989 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
HVAC contractors in Rhode Island must have a mechanical license from the Depart of Labor and Training (DLT) Division of Professional Regulation. There are multiple licenses that an individual may hold to work on various jobs, such as a Gas Serviceman license or Refrigeration Master license. Individuals may also require additional licensure for jobs that involve the installation or maintenance of plumbing. Licenses can be verified on the DLT's website, and you should check with your local government to confirm that a contractor meets all municipal or city requirements. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you understand the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are completed to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask your installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, brand, features, energy efficiency, and model. 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.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A thorough quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, you should schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider installing a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to find out what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
