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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to 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 ensure that the HVAC system in your Port Townsend home is functioning optimally.
We've researched and assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Port Townsend to help you choose the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,798-$4,583 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,643-$6,711 | |
Heat Pump | $2,821-$28,741 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $236-$393 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $59-$157 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,180-$3,541 | |
Thermostat Repair | $79-$197 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $378-$944 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
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 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the specific 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 on a state-by-state basis.
In the state of Washington, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed as specialty contractors. An individual 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 requires contractors to be both bonded and insured. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Look for a a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to verify proper operation. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, features, estimated installation time, brand, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely 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 — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Port Townsend, you'll probably be fine with a unit that's on the lower end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective than window units for cooling.
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).
Your HVAC company may have financing options through a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: