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 energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. You don't want to spend more than you need to on temperature control in your Port Lavaca home, so it's important to make sure all systems are working properly.
Our list of Port Lavaca's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
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Informative resources
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Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
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 home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,725-$4,397 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,495-$6,439 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,706-$27,574 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $226-$377 |
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 ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $57-$151 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,132-$3,397 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $75-$189 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $362-$906 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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 on a state-by-state basis.
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 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. Both registered and certified technicians must be supervised by a licensed contractor. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, request that the installation company describe the new estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, model, and features. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the best protection within your budget.
Get written bids before starting HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, it's best to schedule inspections 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 making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any window or door leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. 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 an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Port Lavaca, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's 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 Lavaca, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
