Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Since such a significant portion of your utility bill goes toward heating and cooling, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Edgewood home is functioning properly.
We've assembled this guide to Edgewood's top HVAC companies to help you choose the right person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
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:
If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Costs for common services 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 |
It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $66-$176 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,318-$3,955 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $88-$220 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $422-$1,055 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. 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. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by 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 at the state level.
HVAC contractors are required to be licensed as specialty contractors in the state of Washington. An individual must possess a speciality HVAC license and may also require electrical or plumbing licensure depending on the type of job. Licensing is handled by the State Department of Labor and Industries, which requires contractors to be both bonded and insured. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.
Always make sure you understand the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new estimated installation time, model, features, brand, and energy efficiency. Before signing paperwork, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be 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 unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally sees the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing how much power your HVAC system uses to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as you can and don't make drastic temperature changes — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you're able to, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Edgewood, you'll likely look for a furnace on the higher end of (or even above) this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Edgewood, a unit with a lower capacity may be sufficient. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you may 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.
