10 Best HVAC Companies in Olympia, WA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:

• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Olympia

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control often have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of indoor units in each room to control 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 warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work best in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller houses. Packaged systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.

• Change filters regularly. Air flows through your HVAC system most effectively when you replace or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the outside areas of your HVAC.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, helps you resolve them before they get out of hand.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, condenser fan blades, grills, and indoor evaporator coil 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 when it begins to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial 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.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. 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 type of exam depends on the kind of equipment they intend 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 by the state.

HVAC contractors are required to be licensed as specialty contractors in the state of Washington. An individual must hold 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. 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 provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, and features. Before work begins, 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.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the company that provides the best protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

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