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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With the higher cost of living in Stone Ridge, you're likely eager to reduce your energy bills.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Stone Ridge to help you choose the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
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 broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,984-$5,058 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,020-$7,406 | |
Heat Pump | $3,113-$31,717 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $260-$434 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$174 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,302-$3,907 | |
Thermostat Repair | $87-$217 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $417-$1,042 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what 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 on a state-by-state basis.
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 both 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 HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system at the end of the job to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, brand, and features. Before signing a contract, be sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the best protection at a reasonable price.
Get written quotes before beginning HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, like strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. 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 tend to be less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system 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. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider installing 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 might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 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).
Normally, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.