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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. In Florence, a significant portion of your energy usage probably goes toward cooling your home in the summer. On average, residents spend $110 a month cooling their homes.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Florence can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quotes
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 repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ 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 | $1,806-$4,604 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,659-$6,742 | |
Heat Pump | $2,833-$28,871 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $237-$395 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, 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 | $59-$158 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,186-$3,557 | |
Thermostat Repair | $79-$198 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $379-$948 |
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.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, 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 proper 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, an individual 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 South Carolina, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed as mechanical contractors through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Contractor's Licensing Board. This license can have multiple specialities, such as Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration, Electrical, or Plumbing, depending on what's required for a specific project. Contractors need to have one year of work experience and pass an exam to be licensed. Your city or county may have additional requirements. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, ask your installation company to provide details on the new features, estimated installation time, brand, model, and energy efficiency. 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.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the greatest protection within your budget.
Get written estimates before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it gets 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 you comfortably can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. 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 things like how large your home is, 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. In Florence, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually 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 Florence, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: