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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the average American, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. You don't want to spend more than you need to on cooling and heating your Princeton home, so it's important to make sure all systems are functioning properly.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Princeton can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
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:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different maintenance services. Costs for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,960-$4,997 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,972-$7,317 | |
Heat Pump | $3,075-$31,335 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $257-$429 |
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 | $64-$172 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,287-$3,860 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $412-$1,029 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the kind of equipment they intend 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.
In Texas, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Contractors need to have at least four years of experience in 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 reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, model, brand, features, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
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 most comprehensive protection within your budget.
Get written quotes before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are during 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, which is when it normally 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 is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure 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 only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician discovers.
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 Princeton, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Princeton, you'll likely look for something on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options through a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: