Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. With so much money invested in heating and cooling your Grafton home, you want to ensure that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to Grafton's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
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:
If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or nearing the end of its lifespan, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,966-$5,013 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,984-$7,341 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,085-$31,436 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $258-$430 |
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 | $65-$172 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,291-$3,872 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $86-$215 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $413-$1,033 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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 by the state.
There are no mandatory state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors in Wisconsin – contractors simply need to register with the Department of Safety and Professional Services. An individual can optionally become certified as an HVAC Qualifier, which requires four combined years of education and experience and may exempt them from some local regulations. Whether your technician is an HVAC Qualifier or not, you should be sure that they meet any local requirements. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the specific parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, ask your installation company to provide details on the new model, features, brand, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, 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.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the best protection at a reasonable price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive 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 twice yearly. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. 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.
Generally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. 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 is comfortable and don't make drastic changes in the temperature — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Grafton, you'll probably be fine with a unit that's on the lower end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Your HVAC company may have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
