Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. Energy costs in Corpus Christi are often higher than in other places, which means you're probably trying to save money on your bill.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Corpus Christi can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
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 repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,812-$4,619 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,671-$6,763 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,843-$28,965 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $238-$396 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $59-$159 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,189-$3,568 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $79-$198 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $381-$951 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the specific 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 on a state-by-state basis.
In Texas, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Contractors must have at least four years of experience in 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. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you understand the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, and model. 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.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.
Get written estimates before beginning HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature 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, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to 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 vary depending on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Corpus Christi, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Corpus Christi, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
