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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 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 properly, 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 hire the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
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 signs that your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for 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 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $57-$152 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,143-$3,430 | |
Thermostat Repair | $76-$191 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $366-$915 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that 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 contractors. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the type of 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 at the state level.
In South Carolina, HVAC contractors must be licensed as mechanical contractors by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Contractor's Licensing Board. Contractors can have multiple specialities, such as Electrical, Plumbing, Heating, Refrigeration, or Air Conditioning, depending on what's required for a specific project. Contractors need to have one year of work experience and must pass an exam to obtain a license. Your city or county may have additional requirements. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. You'll want to select a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, and model. Before signing a contract, 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. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a fair cost.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to 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 during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your home, 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 need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Berea, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally 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). In Berea, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: