Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
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.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
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 home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different maintenance services. Fees for some common services are 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 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$166 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,242-$3,725 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$207 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $397-$993 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors 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 the type 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.
In Tennessee, HVAC contractors only require a license when working on projects valued at $25,000 or more. For these jobs, 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 confirm any requirements with your city or municipal government before signing a contract. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You'll want to select a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system at the end of the job to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new estimated installation time, energy efficiency, brand, model, and features. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get written quotes before beginning HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected 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 your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider installing a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to 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 determined by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
