Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. Energy costs in Lake Forest Park can be steeper than in some other places, which means you'd probably like to save money on your bill.
Our list of Lake Forest Park's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
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:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,063-$5,259 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,180-$7,701 | |
Heat Pump | $3,236-$32,978 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $271-$451 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $68-$181 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,354-$4,062 | |
Thermostat Repair | $90-$226 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $433-$1,083 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors 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. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor 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. An individual must have 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 requires contractors to be both bonded and insured. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about great customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, model, features, estimated installation time, and brand. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets 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 you can and avoid making 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 roughly one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Lake Forest Park, you can probably make do with a unit that's on the lower end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective for cooling than window units.
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).
Normally, HVAC financing is 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 determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: