10 Best HVAC Companies in East Renton Highlands, WA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:

• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Unusually high energy bills
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in East Renton Highlands

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for central air often have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by having the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cool air between your home and outside. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they function best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit, usually located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leave your blinds open so your home benefits from passive solar heat. In summer, keep blinds shut to block out heat. Doing both helps minimize the amount of work your HVAC system is required to do.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outdoor sections of your system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and grills regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it begins to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with 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." Contractors 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 are required to be licensed as specialty contractors in the state of Washington. Individuals must have a speciality HVAC license and may also require plumbing or electrical licensure depending on the type of job. Licensing is handled by the State Department of Labor and Industries, which mandates that contractors must be both bonded and insured. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of your project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new brand, estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, and model. Before work starts, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.