Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Pierre home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Pierre can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
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 HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,834-$4,676 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,717-$6,848 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,878-$29,325 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $241-$401 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$161 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,204-$3,612 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $80-$201 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $385-$963 |
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 fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies 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. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they plan 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.
There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in South Dakota. However, individual cities or municipalities might have their own requirements, so be sure to check with your local government. You can also verify that the business license of a company is in good standing on the Secretary of State's website. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with positive reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the exact parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new features, model, brand, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, 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 stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain the temperature of your home. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. 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 depend on things 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, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Pierre, you'll probably want a furnace on the higher end of or above 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. Usually, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose 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.
