Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your Garden City home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to Garden City's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
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:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have 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 style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Costs for some common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,829-$4,662 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,706-$6,827 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,869-$29,238 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $240-$400 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$160 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,201-$3,602 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $80-$200 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $384-$960 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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.
HVAC contractors in South Carolina must be licensed as mechanical contractors via the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Contractor's Licensing Board. This license can have multiple specialities, such as Refrigeration, Electrical, Air Conditioning, Heating, or Plumbing, depending on what's needed for a specific project. Contractors must have one year of work experience and pass an exam to earn a license. Your city or county may have additional requirements. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You want to hire a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new features, model, energy efficiency, brand, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. At the time of the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees 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. Set your thermostat 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 door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Garden City, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually 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 Garden City, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company might provide financing options through a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
