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, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. This probably isn't a surprise if you live in Ellensburg and have to run your heat all winter. The average resident spends $160 a month on their heating.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in Ellensburg to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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 faulty or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,960-$4,997 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,972-$7,317 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,075-$31,335 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $257-$429 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$172 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,287-$3,860 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $412-$1,029 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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. Individuals must hold a speciality HVAC license and may also require plumbing or electrical licensure depending on the nature of the job. Licensing is handled by the State Department of Labor and Industries, which mandates that contractors must be both bonded and insured. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. You'll want to select a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the exact 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 your installation company to provide details on the new estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, brand, and features. 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.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.
Always get estimates 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 approximately twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it typically 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.
It takes around one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Ellensburg, you'll probably want a furnace on the higher end of (or even above) this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Ellensburg, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you might consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
