When choosing an HVAC contractor for a home cooling or heating replacement, it is critical to select a qualified service professional. An improper installation can lead to poor indoor air quality, expensive repairs and early replacement.
HVAC efficiency is a major factor in reducing energy costs and promoting healthy building conditions. This article shares several ways to improve your HVAC system’s efficiency.
1. Experience
The HVAC industry is a great option for people with a strong work ethic and interest in learning. Those who pursue vocational school to gain knowledge and experience in the field should look for programs that offer certification, high graduation rates, and low tuition costs. Then, they can apply to the program with a resume that includes relevant information and qualifications.
The field of HVAC requires a deep understanding of sheet metal, air flow, piping, refrigeration systems, and electrical circuits. It also requires an extensive background in safety procedures and an ability to learn new techniques. Additionally, HVAC professionals must pass both a technician and contractor license exam.
Regular maintenance of your HVAC system can help you save money on energy bills, avoid expensive repairs, and extend the life of the unit. You can start by replacing the air filters and making sure that the vents are clean. You can also improve the comfort of your home with smart thermostats and other upgrades.
3. Warranty
The warranty offered by the company you hire for HVAC work is important, especially because it can offset the cost of repair or replacement. Most warranties come in two forms — equipment and labor — and it’s important to find out which type of warranty is included in your system.
A good HVAC warranty covers repairs due to faulty parts and workmanship. This is particularly true for systems that are new or refurbished, which often have a warranty from the manufacturer that covers parts for a certain number of years.
The best home warranty companies cover the repair or replacement of HVAC equipment. American Home Shield is the most comprehensive, offering three tiered plans — ShieldSilver, ShieldGold and ShieldPlatinum — that have no preset coverage cap for built-in appliances like HVAC. These plans also include one HVAC tune-up per year, which can help prevent costly repairs. You can get a quote for a plan from AHS by filling out this easy form.
4. Pricing
It’s important to find an HVAC company that is honest and upfront about pricing. It’s also a good idea to get multiple estimates and ask lots of questions. However, don’t go with the cheapest option; you want to make sure you’re getting quality work at a fair price.
The cost of an HVAC system depends on the type and size that you choose. For example, a high-efficiency model will be more expensive than one with a lower SEER rating. However, a higher SEER rating will save you money on energy bills over time.
Many HVAC companies offer financing options to help you afford a replacement. This may include a home equity line of credit (HELOC), which works much like a standard mortgage but allows you to borrow against the equity in your house. This can be a great option if you don’t have enough money saved up for the full purchase. But it’s important to pay attention to the fine print and read all of the terms and conditions carefully. Hvac near me
