10 Best HVAC Companies in Hartsville, TN

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

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. Watch for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:

• Odd noises when turning on
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Hartsville

HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the right ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of interior units that regulate the temperature in individual rooms, and that are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to utilize energy from either electric or gas sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they work best in mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller houses. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, normally located in a basement or attic. They're small, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be pricey. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

• Change filters regularly. Switching out or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outdoor sections of your system.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, condenser fan blades, grills, and indoor evaporator coil clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the winter allows passive solar heating to warm your home. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent some heat from getting inside. Doing both helps reduce the strain on your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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 air conditioning and heating in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

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, an individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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 by the state.

HVAC contractors in Tennessee 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 work on jobs that involve 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. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of your project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, model, brand, estimated installation time, and features. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.