10 Best HVAC
in Franklin Farm, VA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:

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

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Franklin Farm

HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the right ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of interior units that control the temperature in individual rooms, and that are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the benefit of having the capability to use either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate hot and cool air between your home and outside. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they function best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, usually located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically compact, energy-efficient, and straightforward to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your grills, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and condenser fan blades clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• 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.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows smooth air circulation through your HVAC system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outside components of your HVAC.

Service	Cost
Filter Replacement	$64-$170
Condensor Cleaning	$1,279-$3,836
Thermostat Repair	$85-$213
Ductwork Cleaning	$409-$1,023

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

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists 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.

Check Credentials

When selecting an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states 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." 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 Virginia need to 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, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Look for a a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, and brand. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.

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 provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.

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.