Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. Since such a significant portion of your utility bill goes toward cooling and heating, you'll want to ensure that the HVAC system in your Staunton home is functioning optimally.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in Staunton to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
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 having issues or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,891-$4,820 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,831-$7,058 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,966-$30,226 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $248-$414 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,241-$3,723 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$207 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $397-$993 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
In Virginia, HVAC contractors 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.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, features, 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.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the most comprehensive protection for a fair price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's smart to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it likely sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could also consider getting a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
