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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. Energy costs in Reston tend to be higher than in some other places, meaning that you'd probably like to save money on your bill.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Reston to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
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 near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Costs for 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 make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,279-$3,836 | |
Thermostat Repair | $85-$213 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $409-$1,023 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they plan 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.
In Virginia, HVAC contractors 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.
Always make sure you know the details of any project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are done to verify that it’s working properly. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, brand, model, features, and estimated installation time. Before starting the project, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the best protection at a reasonable price.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system 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, such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider getting a smart thermostat.
It takes around one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician discovers.
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 look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: