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, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In Grand Prairie, much of that energy use probably goes toward cooling your home in the warm summers. In fact, Grand Prairie residents spend, on average, $120 a month cooling their homes.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Grand Prairie can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
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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 suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for some 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 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be pricey. Fortunately, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$169 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,270-$3,811 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $85-$212 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $407-$1,016 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
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 specific exam depends on what 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.
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 look at reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, and features. Before signing a contract, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically 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. Set your thermostat 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 help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be affected 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, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Grand Prairie, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Grand Prairie, you might 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:
