Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With the higher cost of living in Warwick, you're likely eager to find ways to save on your energy bills.
Our list of Warwick's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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:
If your HVAC system is having issues 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:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,897-$4,835 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,843-$7,080 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,975-$30,319 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $249-$415 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$166 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,245-$3,735 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$207 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $398-$996 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors 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. HVAC contractors in all states 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 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 on a state-by-state basis.
In Rhode Island, HVAC contractors 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 different 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. You can verify a license on the DLT's website and check with your local government to verify if a contractor meets all municipal or city requirements. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, and brand. Before work begins, 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.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. At the time of the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected 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 probably sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, 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 speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
