What’s the Difference Between a Boiler and a Water Heater? Learn Pros, Cons, Cost, and More
Discover the many differences between a boiler and a water heater, from their main functions and pricing to options, lifespan, DIY-ability, and more.
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Discover the many differences between a boiler and a water heater, from their main functions and pricing to options, lifespan, DIY-ability, and more.
Propane heaters can help you stay warm during winter, but they come with some inherent risks. We’ll cover how to use propane heaters safely both indoors and out.
Type of unit and budget are just a few factors to consider when choosing a new HVAC system. Here’s what you need to know to pick the right HVAC system for your house.
Your HVAC system is a complicated piece of technology with plenty of ways to break down. So, what are the most common HVAC problems and solutions? Find out here.
HVAC system inspections are an important part of your home maintenance plan and can keep you from having to make costly repairs or replacements in the future. Here’s what you need to know about the frequency, cost, and purpose of HVAC inspections.
From heat pumps to cooling coils and beyond, a home’s HVAC system has a whole lot of associated terminology. Follow this guide for some HVAC schooling.
Learn about HVACs a.k.a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. We’ll walk you through how HVAC systems work and the different types to choose from.
While portable AC units are easier to install, window AC units save more space. Use this guide to learn about the similarities and differences between the two.
Moving a furnace a few feet is not a huge matter. However, moving a furnace to another room or different part of the house will probably cost a few thousand dollars. It's a major job involving numerous different professionals.
If you are shopping around for new insulation for an attic, crawlspace, rim joist, or even open walls during a renovation project, you may be wondering if you should remove old insulation first. Learn when it’s necessary—and when it isn’t.
Reducing your home's carbon footprint saves energy and money. This guide shows you easy ways to lower the carbon footprint in your home to help fight climate change and reduce the cost of utilities.
Work out the pros and cons of window units versus central air with this handy guide to finding the best way to cool your home.
Need to buy a new HVAC system? Before you do, check out this HVAC list so you can compare brands and decide what’s best for your home. From energy efficiency to SEER ratings, we’re comparing popular air conditioning brands and their features.
If your AC unit is on the fritz, you may not always know right away. By the time you figure it out, things can really heat up. Follow these steps to learn how to tell if your AC is working correctly so you can stay cool, calm, and collected.
The cost of a geothermal heat pump is steep up front at $10,318 on average with some homeowners paying $30,000, but a tax credit and potential savings from geothermal energy costs can offset the geothermal system cost in 5 to 10 years.
Big or small, your project is a significant investment. That’s why we recommend interviewing at least three qualified HVAC professionals before making a hiring decision. Ask the following questions to determine whether a pro is the right fit for your project.
Air conditioning manufacturers are constantly innovating. Talking to your prospective pro about new features and technical specs will ensure you get the right unit for your home — and that you hire a pro who is up to date with the latest in AC tech.
AC units come in different sizes. Installing the wrong unit will negatively impact your energy efficiency and comfort. Be sure you pro plans to perform a heat-load calculation before they begin any installation or repairs. These tests determine which AC unit size is right for your home.
Financing options make it easier to afford the AC unit that will work best for your home. It’s best to hire pros who have installment or payment plans available.
SEER ratings determine the efficiency of your unit. Hire a pro who understands these ratings and who is able to match the right unit to your home. Installing an inefficient unit can raise utility bills and create an uncomfortable climate in your home.
Your ductwork should be sized to match your unit. If you’re installing a new unit, ask your pro to ensure your ducts will work with your new unit. It’s a bad idea to hire a pro who refuses to look at your ductwork.
Heating systems come in a huge variety of designs, from cutting-edge geothermal units to old-fashioned radiators. It’s important that your pro has experience working with your type of unit.
Most heating repairs take place inside your home. Be sure your pro’s schedule will work with your own.
Many HVAC companies carry only specific brands. It’s critical that your pro is able to provide the right replacement parts for your type of system.
Some heating system repairs can incur major costs. Be sure your pro offers payment plans or financing options if you’re tackling a big repair or installation.
Service contracts ensure your heating systems receives regular maintenance. This is especially useful after a major repair or replacement. Don’t forget to ask your pro about contract options.
The average cost to hire a HVAC contractor is between $40 and $100 per hour, while some may be more expensive, there will typically not be any cheaper option that would be qualified and licensed to do HVAC work.
The average cost for a repair is around $200 and $1,500. However, each project is different and costs can range from $200 to fix a refrigerator leak, to several thousand dollars to install or repair an A/C unit.
Yes. Every state has their own requirements for licensing and certifications for HVAC contractors. Be sure to check our state licensing tool to review the local HVAC guidelines.
There are several questions or things to know before hiring a HVAC pro to do any work in your home.
Do they have proper licensing and certification?
Do they charge for estimates?
Can they provide references?
What brands to they carry or service?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2020, there were 344,020 HVAC contractors employed in America. Their average salary was $25.68 per hour, with an annual wage of $53,410. Florida has the most HVAC professionals employed (33,210) with California (32,410) following just behind. Alaska has the highest average hourly wage at $38.28 per hour.