10 Best HVAC Companies in Bon Air, VA

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 maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Strange noises when turning on
• Cracking, rust, or corrosion
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Refrigerant leaks
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Bon Air

HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties 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 interior units in each room to regulate 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 gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your home and the outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work better in more temperate climates and may not be as effective during Bon Air's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, typically located in an attic or basement. They're space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is 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. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your grills, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and condenser fan blades clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• 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 strain on your HVAC system.

Service	Cost
Filter Replacement	$60-$160
Condensor Cleaning	$1,201-$3,604
Thermostat Repair	$80-$200
Ductwork Cleaning	$384-$961

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific 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 at the state level.

HVAC contractors in Virginia must have a contractor license with an HVAC specialization from the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation. A valid Master HVAC Tradesman License (which has its own education and experience requirements) is necessary to apply. A license can be class A, B, or C.

• Class A: Contractor has at least five years of experience and can work on projects valued over $120,000
• Class B: Contractor has at least three years of experience and can work on projects valued between $10,000 and $120,000
• Class C: Contractor has at least two years of experience and can work on projects valued under $10,000

You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for a a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask your contractor to provide details on the new estimated installation time, features, brand, model, and energy efficiency. Before work begins, 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

A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the greatest protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written estimate before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.