10 Best HVAC Companies in Portland, TN

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

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

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

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Portland

The price of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and outside. They don't create their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller houses. They consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your grills, condenser fan blades, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil clean enables your HVAC system to function properly and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association suggests cleaning your home's HVAC when you notice things starting to get dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent the heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the strain on your HVAC.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the external sections of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring 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.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. 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 for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When hiring an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory 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 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 that involve 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. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. You want to hire a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list 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 guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask your installation company to provide details on the new energy efficiency, brand, features, estimated installation time, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.