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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. In The Woodlands, you're likely looking to reduce your energy expenses and save money on your bills.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in The Woodlands to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
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 HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different maintenance services. Costs for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,929-$4,916 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,908-$7,199 | |
Heat Pump | $3,026-$30,831 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $253-$422 |
It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$169 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,266-$3,798 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$211 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $405-$1,013 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is key for a smooth 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. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When picking an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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 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 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. Reviewing feedback on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the exact parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask your installation company to provide details on the new features, estimated installation time, model, brand, and energy efficiency. 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.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the best protection for the fairest price.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Confirm that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. After the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. 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 get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it probably 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 is comfortable, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that 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 be based on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In The Woodlands, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In The Woodlands, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: