10 Best HVAC Companies in Radford, VA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

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

• Unusually high energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Radford

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control frequently have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of internal units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions in the same way as a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and the outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work more effectively in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller homes. They have a single heating and cooling unit, usually in an attic or basement. This unit is often space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both reduces the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and grills clean enables your HVAC system to function properly and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when you notice things starting to get dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows best through your HVAC system when you replace or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, helps you resolve them before they get out of hand.

Service	Cost
Filter Replacement	$62-$165
Condensor Cleaning	$1,241-$3,723
Thermostat Repair	$83-$207
Ductwork Cleaning	$397-$993

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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 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 both education and experience requirements) is necessary to apply. Licenses 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

Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.

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 the full system after repairs are done to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new energy efficiency, brand, model, estimated installation time, and features. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the most protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.