Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. In Providence, a large percent of your energy bill probably goes toward running your heat in the winter. On average, residents spend $160 on heating every month.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Providence.
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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 home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or nearing the end of its lifespan, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires expert attention:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,780-$4,538 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,607-$6,646 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,793-$28,460 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $234-$390 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $58-$156 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,169-$3,506 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $78-$195 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $374-$935 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. 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 in your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain 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.
When selecting an HVAC company, 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 any individual who helps "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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
HVAC contractors in Utah must have a Speciality Contractor license from the Department of Commerce Division of Professional Licensing. Contractors are required to provide proof of insurance. If a contractor owns a business or has employees, they must register their business and have workers' compensation insurance. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, features, and model. Before starting the project, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.
Get written bids before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected 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 likely sees the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as you can and avoid making drastic temperature changes — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you're able to, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, 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 Providence, you'll be better off going with a furnace on the higher end of or above this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Providence, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. In general, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, 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 speak with 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:
