Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. It's important to make sure the heating and cooling systems in your Plymouth home are functioning optimally, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Plymouth can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Look out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and figure out whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,872-$4,773 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,793-$6,989 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,937-$29,930 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $246-$410 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $61-$164 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,229-$3,687 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$205 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $393-$983 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they intend 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 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 allow them to be exempt 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 check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You want to hire a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new brand, features, estimated installation time, model, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally 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 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.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Plymouth, you'll likely look for 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 between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Plymouth, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might 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're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
