Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In Kilgore, a significant portion of your energy spending probably goes toward cooling your home in the summer. On average, residents spend $120 every month cooling their homes.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in Kilgore to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
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 broken or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,825-$4,653 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,699-$6,814 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,864-$29,181 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $240-$399 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$160 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,198-$3,595 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $80-$200 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $383-$959 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. 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 looking for an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all contractors 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 by the state.
HVAC contractors in Texas are required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Contractors need to 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. Registered and certified technicians must both be supervised by a licensed contractor. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You want to hire a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the installation company describe the new model, features, energy efficiency, brand, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it 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 can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician finds 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 Kilgore, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Kilgore, you'll likely look for something on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
