10 Best HVAC Companies in Round Rock, TX

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's not working properly or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

• Unusually high energy bills
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Refrigerant leaks
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Strange noises when turning on
• Corrosion, rust, or cracking
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Round Rock

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate hot and cool air between your home and outside. They don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work best in temperate climates and may not be as effective during Round Rock's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller houses. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, normally located in a basement or attic. They're space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, condenser fan blades, grills, and indoor evaporator coil clean enables your HVAC system to function properly and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your home's HVAC system when you notice it starting to get dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outdoor sections of your system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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 air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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 on a state-by-state basis.

HVAC contractors in Texas must 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 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. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to understand 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 the full system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, model, and brand. 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.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A thorough quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.