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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your Port Arthur home, you want to ensure that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our list of Port Arthur's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
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:
If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system needs expert attention:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,755-$4,473 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,555-$6,550 | |
Heat Pump | $2,753-$28,050 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $230-$384 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $58-$154 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,152-$3,455 | |
Thermostat Repair | $77-$192 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $369-$921 |
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 keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from 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 at the state level.
In Texas, HVAC contractors 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 look at reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new features, brand, energy efficiency, model, and estimated installation time. Before signing paperwork, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice yearly. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected 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 typically sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and try to 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, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. 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 things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Port Arthur, 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 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 Port Arthur, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Normally, HVAC financing is 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 learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: