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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. Since cooling and heating represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Longview home is functioning properly.
We've compiled this guide to Longview's top HVAC companies to help you hire the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make fixes or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,801-$4,590 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,648-$6,721 | |
Heat Pump | $2,825-$28,784 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $236-$394 |
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 reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $59-$158 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,182-$3,546 | |
Thermostat Repair | $79-$197 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $378-$946 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals 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 at the state level.
HVAC contractors in Texas 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 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 look at reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with positive reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection within your budget.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it gets 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 is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any door or window leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure 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 an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Longview, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will 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 Longview, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: