Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated May 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. It's important that the temperature control systems in your Hopkinton home are functioning properly, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Hopkinton to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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 malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have 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 best solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,840-$4,690 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,728-$6,868 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,886-$29,411 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $242-$403 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$161 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,208-$3,623 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $81-$201 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $386-$966 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend 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.
In Rhode Island, HVAC contractors are required to 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 different jobs, such as a Refrigeration Master license or a Gas Serviceman license. Individuals may also require additional licensure for jobs that involve installing or maintaining plumbing. You can verify a license on the DLT's website and check with your local government to confirm that a contractor meets all city or municipal requirements. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new features, energy efficiency, model, brand, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the most protection within your budget.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's smart to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably 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. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will be based on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Normally, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
