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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. With the cost of living in North Charleston, you're probably eager to reduce your energy bills.
Our list of North Charleston's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
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 not working properly or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
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.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different maintenance services. Prices for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,920-$4,894 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,890-$7,167 | |
Heat Pump | $3,012-$30,694 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $252-$420 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,260-$3,781 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$210 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $403-$1,008 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. 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." An individual 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 must 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 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. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, brand, and features. Before signing a contract, 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.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the most protection at a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. 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. 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, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In North Charleston, 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 an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In North Charleston, you'll likely need something on the higher end of this range. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose 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 a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: