Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It's important that the temperature control systems in your Brownsville home are functioning optimally, so you can avoid spending more than necessary.
Our guide to Brownsville's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
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 HVAC system is broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for some common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,883-$4,800 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,815-$7,029 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,954-$30,103 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$412 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,236-$3,708 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $396-$989 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is vital for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by 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 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.
HVAC contractors in Tennessee are only required to be licensed if they work on projects valued above $25,000. 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 work on jobs involving electrical work, and there may be other local requirements for HVAC contractors. Be sure to check with your city or municipal government before signing a contract. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new brand, energy efficiency, model, features, 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 services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection within your budget.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally 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, when it typically gets 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. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes around one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Brownsville, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
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. In Brownsville, you'll likely need something on the higher end of this range. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
