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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. It's important that the cooling and heating systems in your Williamsburg home are functioning properly, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in Williamsburg to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
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 repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,774-$4,523 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,595-$6,624 | |
Heat Pump | $2,784-$28,367 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $233-$388 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $58-$155 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,165-$3,494 | |
Thermostat Repair | $78-$194 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $373-$932 |
Finding the right HVAC company is vital for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When picking an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all contractors 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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. 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 experience and education requirements) is necessary to apply. Licenses be class A, B, or C.
Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new brand, model, features, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice yearly. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to schedule inspections 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 power your HVAC system uses to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things 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, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Williamsburg, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. Generally, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: