10 Best HVAC Companies in Tomball, TX

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Refrigerant leaks
• Unusually high energy bills
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• 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 identify problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Tomball

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either electricity or gas as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by circulating warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't generate heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more effective in more moderate climates. They may not be as effective during Tomball's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller homes. Packaged systems consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit that's usually located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, lets you resolve them before they get out of hand.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, ductwork, and grills regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it begins to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows most effectively through your HVAC system when you replace or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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 fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians 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.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors 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 by the state.

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. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to understand what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, model, and brand. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written bids before beginning HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.