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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. In Bedford, a significant portion of your energy usage probably goes toward cooling down in the summer. On average, residents spend $120 a month cooling their homes.
We've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Bedford to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
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 nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires professional attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,935-$4,933 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,921-$7,224 | |
Heat Pump | $3,036-$30,939 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $254-$423 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$169 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,270-$3,811 | |
Thermostat Repair | $85-$212 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $407-$1,016 |
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 fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific 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 at the state level.
HVAC contractors in Texas are required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Contractors must have at least four years of experience within the past six years and must provide proof of insurance. An individual can also be a registered technician, which has no experience requirements, or a certified technician, which requires two years of experience. Both registered and certified technicians must be supervised by a licensed contractor. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new model, features, energy efficiency, brand, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for a fair price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, which makes it 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 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 can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Bedford, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Bedford, you'll likely want something on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options through a third-party lender, or you might choose 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 several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: