Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You want your Mount Vernon home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to waste your money on inefficient cooling and heating.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the best HVAC companies in Mount Vernon.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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 faulty or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for some common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,948-$4,966 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,947-$7,272 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,056-$31,141 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $256-$426 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,279-$3,836 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $85-$213 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $409-$1,023 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. 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 type of 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 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 both education and experience requirements) is necessary to apply. A license can be class A, B, or C.
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. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new model, energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, and brand. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit 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. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection within your budget.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
