Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like most Americans, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. In Newberry, a lot of that energy use likely goes toward cooling your home in the warm summers. In fact, Newberry residents spend, on average, $100 a month cooling their homes.
We've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Newberry to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or past its lifespan 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 company can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,819-$4,636 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,685-$6,789 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,853-$29,073 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $239-$398 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$159 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,194-$3,581 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $80-$199 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $382-$955 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers 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. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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 must 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, Refrigeration, Electrical, 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. Your city or county may have additional requirements. 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 great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new brand, features, estimated installation time, model, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the most protection within your budget.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, 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 an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally 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 in good shape and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Newberry, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Newberry, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company might have financing options through a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
