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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. In Goose Creek, much of that energy use likely goes toward cooling off during the warm summers. In fact, Goose Creek residents spend, on average, $120 a month cooling their homes.
We've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Goose Creek to help you choose the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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 home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for some common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,869-$4,763 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,786-$6,975 | |
Heat Pump | $2,932-$29,872 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $245-$409 |
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 methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$164 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,227-$3,680 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$204 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $393-$981 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper 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 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 at the state level.
In South Carolina, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed as mechanical contractors via the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Contractor's Licensing Board. Contractors can have multiple specialities, such as Electrical, Heating, Plumbing, Air Conditioning, or Refrigeration, depending on what's required for a specific project. Contractors need to have one year of work experience and must pass an exam to be licensed. Individual cities or counties may have additional requirements. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. You want to hire a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after finishing the work to ensure proper operation. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, features, estimated installation time, model, and energy efficiency. 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.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive 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 what services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected 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 you comfortably can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Goose Creek, 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 purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Goose Creek, you'll likely want a unit on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.