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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 U.S. Department of Energy. With so much money invested in cooling and heating your Fort Mill home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Fort Mill to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
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:
If your HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,887-$4,811 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,824-$7,044 | |
Heat Pump | $2,961-$30,168 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $248-$413 |
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 | $62-$165 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,239-$3,716 | |
Thermostat Repair | $83-$206 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $396-$991 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Explain 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.
When picking an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors 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 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 Refrigeration, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Plumbing, or Heating, depending on what's needed for a specific project. Contractors must have one year of work experience and pass an exam to be licensed. Individual cities or counties may have additional requirements. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
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 after finishing the work to verify proper operation. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, and model. Before starting the project, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A thorough quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's best to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and 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 between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Fort Mill, 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 than window units for cooling.
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 Fort Mill, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Normally, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: