10 Best HVAC Companies in Heath, TX

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

• Higher than normal energy bills
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Heath

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control frequently have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of internal units in each room to control temperature, which all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by having the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move hot and cold air between your home and the outside. These systems don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work more efficiently in moderate climates and may not be as effective during Heath's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller houses. They have a single heating and cooling unit, usually in a basement or attic. This unit is often small, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help lower the work required from your HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, grills, indoor evaporator coil, and ductwork clean enables your HVAC system to function properly and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your home's HVAC system when you notice it starting to get dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows best through your HVAC system when you replace or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the outdoor parts of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When picking an HVAC provider, 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 the type 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.

In Texas, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Contractors need to have at least four years of experience in 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. Registered and certified technicians must both be supervised by a licensed contractor. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new energy efficiency, features, model, brand, 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.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A thorough quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.