Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With the cost of living in Vashon, you're probably eager to reduce your energy bills.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Vashon can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make fixes or install a new unit. Look out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are 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. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor 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 contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.
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 plumbing or electrical licensure depending on the type of job. Licensing is handled by the State Department of Labor and Industries, which mandates that contractors must be both bonded and insured. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, model, brand, features, and estimated installation time. 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 services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, you should schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably 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 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.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Vashon, you can probably make do 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).
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
