Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Energy expenses in College Station are often higher than in other places, which means you'd probably like to save money on your bill.
Our list of College Station's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Informative resources
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
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:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,857-$4,735 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,763-$6,933 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,914-$29,692 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $244-$406 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be pricey. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $61-$163 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,219-$3,658 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $81-$203 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $390-$975 |
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 air conditioning and heating in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists 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. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from 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 the kind of equipment they intend 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 on a state-by-state basis.
In Texas, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Contractors need to have at least four years of experience within the past six years and must show 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. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new model, brand, features, energy efficiency, 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.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, like strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally 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. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your house, 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 College Station, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In College Station, you'll likely need a unit on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you might consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
