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 Westerly's higher cost of living, you're likely eager to reduce your energy bills.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in Westerly to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
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:
If your HVAC system is broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the type of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common 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 take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$161 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,208-$3,623 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $81-$201 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $386-$966 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider'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 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 all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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.
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 various jobs, such as a Refrigeration Master license or a Gas Serviceman license. Additional licensure may also be required 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 determine whether a contractor meets all municipal or city requirements. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a provider with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new energy efficiency, brand, features, estimated installation time, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, while remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You may also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want 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. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine 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:
