Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. You want your Huntsville home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to waste your money on ineffective cooling and heating.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the best HVAC companies in Huntsville.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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 having issues or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,744-$4,445 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,533-$6,509 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,736-$27,877 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $229-$382 |
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 | $57-$153 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,145-$3,434 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $76-$191 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $366-$916 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of 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 by the state.
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 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. Registered and certified technicians must both be supervised by a licensed contractor. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with positive reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, brand, and model. Before work begins, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the best protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new 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 a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it probably 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 is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any door or window leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any 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 Huntsville, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective for cooling than window units.
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 Huntsville, 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:
