10 Best HVAC Companies in Walla Walla, WA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is having issues or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:

• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Unusually high energy bills
• Strange noises when turning on
• Cracking, rust, or corrosion
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Walla Walla

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to manage temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system operates similar to a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to utilize energy from either electric or gas sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cold air between your home and outside. They don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work best in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are often a good option for smaller houses. These systems consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit that's normally located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and grills helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the outside areas of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When picking an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. 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 the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. 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 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. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, and model. Before signing a contract, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

A reputable 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 greatest protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.