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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. Houston's hot summer weather probably mean that your energy bill is higher during the warmer months. The average resident spends $130 a month cooling their home.
Our list of Houston's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Fees for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,932-$4,924 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,914-$7,211 | |
Heat Pump | $3,031-$30,881 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $254-$423 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$169 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,268-$3,804 | |
Thermostat Repair | $85-$211 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $406-$1,014 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists 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.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states need to 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." Contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
HVAC contractors in Texas must 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 read reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with positive reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, and brand. 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.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's best to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready 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. 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 in good shape and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to avoid letting cool air escape. 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 things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Houston, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually 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 Houston, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. 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.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: