Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. You don't want to spend more than you need to on heating and cooling your DuPont home, so it's important to make sure all systems are working properly.
A top HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in DuPont.
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles 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 | $2,008-$5,120 | |
| Hybrid Split | $4,069-$7,497 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,151-$32,106 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $264-$439 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $66-$176 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,318-$3,955 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $88-$220 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $422-$1,055 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists 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 appropriate 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 specific 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 the state of Washington, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed as specialty contractors. An individual must possess a speciality HVAC license and may also require electrical or plumbing licensure depending on the job. Licensing is handled by the State Department of Labor and Industries, which requires contractors to be both bonded and insured. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a provider with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and features. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best 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 review all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected 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 probably sees the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as is comfortable and don't make drastic changes in the temperature — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you're able to, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In DuPont, you'll probably be fine with a unit that's on the lower end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to 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). In DuPont, you may need a higher-capacity furnace.
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
