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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your Woodlawn home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our list of Woodlawn's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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 having issues or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs 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 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,279-$3,836 | |
Thermostat Repair | $85-$213 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $409-$1,023 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled 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 mandatory 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 on a state-by-state basis.
HVAC contractors in Virginia 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. Licenses be class A, B, or C.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new features, brand, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's smart to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely 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 possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. 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 be based on things like the size of your house, 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 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'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Your HVAC company might provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart 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: