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 the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Since heating and cooling represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to ensure that the HVAC system in your Manitowoc home is functioning properly.
We've compiled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Manitowoc to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type 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 a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,879-$4,791 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,808-$7,016 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,949-$30,045 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$411 |
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 methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$164 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,234-$3,701 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $395-$987 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company'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 skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must 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." Contractors 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 on a state-by-state basis.
Wisconsin doesn't have any mandatory state-level requirements for HVAC contractors; all 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 or not your technician is an HVAC Qualifier, 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). Choose a company with positive reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of your project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new energy efficiency, brand, model, estimated installation time, and features. Before work starts, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection for a fair price.
Get a written estimate 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.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice annually. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected 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 typically 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 don't make drastic temperature changes — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, 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 takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things 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 should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Manitowoc, 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 than window units for cooling.
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 might have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
