Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. It's important to make sure the temperature control systems in your Bristol home are functioning properly, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Bristol.
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
User Rating
Clear pricing policy
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 home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can evaluate your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,892-$4,822 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,833-$7,061 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,968-$30,240 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $248-$414 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$166 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,242-$3,725 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$207 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $397-$993 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is key for a successful installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
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, contractors 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 on a state-by-state basis.
HVAC contractors in Tennessee are only required to be licensed if they work on projects valued at $25,000 or more. 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 that involve 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. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, model, energy efficiency, features, and estimated installation time. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician discovers.
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).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea 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:
