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, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. It's important to make sure the temperature control systems in your Berea home are functioning optimally, so that you don't spend more than necessary.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Berea's top HVAC companies to help you choose the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
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 repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different maintenance services. Prices for some common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,741-$4,439 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,529-$6,501 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,732-$27,841 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $229-$381 |
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 | $57-$152 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,143-$3,430 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $76-$191 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $366-$915 |
Finding the right HVAC company is key for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the 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 South Carolina, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed as mechanical contractors via the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Contractor's Licensing Board. Contractors can have multiple specialities, such as Heating, Plumbing, Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, or Electrical, depending on what's needed for a specific project. Contractors need to have one year of work experience and pass an exam to get a license. Individual cities or counties may have additional requirements. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, and brand. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Berea, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Berea, you'll likely look for something on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
