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 most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. In Georgetown, much of that energy use likely goes toward cooling your home in the warm summer months. In fact, Georgetown residents spend, on average, $120 a month cooling their homes.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Georgetown can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Look out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,774-$4,523 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,595-$6,624 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,784-$28,367 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $233-$388 |
It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or 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 | $58-$155 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,165-$3,494 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $78-$194 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $373-$932 |
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 heating and cooling year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When looking for an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
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 Plumbing, Electrical, Refrigeration, Heating, or Air Conditioning, depending on what's needed for a specific project. Contractors must have one year of work experience and must pass an exam to be licensed. Individual cities or counties may have additional requirements. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new estimated installation time, model, features, energy efficiency, and brand. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is 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 is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Georgetown, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Georgetown, you'll likely look for a unit on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might offer financing options through a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
