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 energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. In Hidalgo, a lot of that energy use probably goes toward cooling off during the warm summers. In fact, Hidalgo residents spend, on average, $180 a month cooling their homes.
Our list of Hidalgo's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
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Informative resources
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Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
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Free quotes
Reliable customer support
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Prompt service delivery
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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:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different maintenance services. Costs for some common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,687-$4,300 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,418-$6,297 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,647-$26,969 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $221-$369 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $55-$148 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,107-$3,322 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $74-$185 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $354-$886 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
When hiring an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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 must 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. Registered and certified technicians must both be supervised by a licensed contractor. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, and brand. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get written quotes before starting HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's best 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 likely 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 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, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Hidalgo, 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 Hidalgo, you'll likely want a unit on the higher end of this range. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you might consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
