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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. You want your Arlington home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on ineffective cooling and heating.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Arlington's top HVAC companies to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
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 having issues or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,899-$4,842 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,848-$7,090 | |
Heat Pump | $2,980-$30,362 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $249-$416 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$166 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,247-$3,740 | |
Thermostat Repair | $83-$208 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $399-$997 |
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 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 contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states need to 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." Contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.
HVAC contractors in Tennessee are only required to be licensed if they work on projects valued above $25,000. In these cases, they require a mechanical contractor license from the Department of Commerce and Insurance.
Many counties will require a Limited Licensed Electrician license to handle jobs involving electrical work, and there may be other local requirements for HVAC contractors. Make sure that you check with your city or municipal government before signing a contract. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Look for a a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the exact parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, brand, energy efficiency, features, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.
Get written estimates before beginning HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, which makes it 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. 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 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.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Arlington, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Arlington, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: