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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. It's important that the heating and cooling systems in your Tacoma home are functioning optimally, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Tacoma's top HVAC companies to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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 malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. 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. Prices for common jobs 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 take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $66-$176 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,318-$3,955 | |
Thermostat Repair | $88-$220 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $422-$1,055 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
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 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 by the state.
In the state of Washington, HVAC contractors are required to be licensed as specialty contractors. Individuals must hold a speciality HVAC license and may also require electrical or plumbing 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. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new features, model, brand, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, be sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the company that provides the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, like strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, 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 generally less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets 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 changes in the temperature — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, try switching to a smart thermostat.
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 Tacoma, you'll be better off going with 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 around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Tacoma, a unit with a lower capacity may be sufficient. In general, 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 through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: