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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. When you live in Orangeburg, a big part of your energy spending probably goes toward your summer air conditioning bill — on average, residents spend approximately $120 monthly.
We've assembled this guide to Orangeburg's top HVAC companies to help you hire the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
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Charitable_giving
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Award_winning
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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:
If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,749-$4,459 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,544-$6,530 | |
Heat Pump | $2,744-$27,963 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $230-$383 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $57-$153 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,148-$3,445 | |
Thermostat Repair | $77-$191 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $367-$919 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of 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 by the state.
HVAC contractors in South Carolina are required to be licensed as mechanical contractors by the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Contractor's Licensing Board. This license can have multiple specialities, such as Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Electrical, Heating, or Plumbing, depending on what's needed for a specific project. Contractors need to have one year of work experience and pass an exam to get a license. Individual cities or counties may have additional requirements. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, features, brand, model, and estimated installation time. 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.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A full 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 twice annually. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's smart to schedule inspections 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 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 can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape 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.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and 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 depend on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Orangeburg, 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 around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Orangeburg, you'll likely need something 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 may have financing options through a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor 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: