Best HVAC Companies

  • All Year Cooling
    4.7(788)
  • GE Air Conditioners
    2.7(77)
  • One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning
    2.4(120)
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Written by Shawn Bayless

Best HVAC Companies

Heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems provide homes and office buildings with clean, temperature-controlled air. Use our guide to research the best heating and cooling system company for you. If you don’t need an entire HVAC system, look for individual heating, cooling and air quality units. Price, size and efficiency set brands apart from each other.

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All Year Cooling is a residential air conditioning repair company located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It offers air conditioning installation and repair, duct cleaning and restoration and attic insulation.

GE is a global industry leader that has been providing advanced technology in homes and businesses for over a century. They sell wall and window air conditioners for homeowners in addition to commercial air conditioners.

One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning is a repair and installation company based in Pennsylvania. Servicing several counties, this company specializes in HVAC service, installation, tune-ups and repairs.

With an A+ certification from the Better Business Bureau, Lindstrom Air Conditioning & Plumbing has a history of excellent customer service. It offers a 10 percent discount for service calls that are scheduled online.

Haier is an international company that sells wall, ductless, PTAC and portable air conditioners to homeowners around the world. As a company, they have a commitment to sustainability and community.

Goodman Manufacturing has been building heating and air conditioning equipment since 1982, including ductless and central air conditioning for homeowners. Their units are sold by independent contractors across the country.

LG sells portable, window and wall air conditioners to homeowners. They also sell accessories such as remote controls and 24-hour timers to improve your air conditioner’s accessibility and performance.

Frigidaire has been a major innovator of home technology since it was bought by General Motors in 1918. Their focus on energy-efficiency and smart technology promotes sustainability and helps homeowners save money.

Lennox got its start in 1895 as a furnace manufacturer and introduced air conditioners to its customers in 1952. It is headquartered in Texas and offers homeowners energy efficient, money saving options on air conditioners.

Trane has been innovating in heating and cooling technology since 1910. They specialize in home air solutions and continuously work to improve and advance their heating and cooling systems for homeowners.

Carrier’s innovation in heating and cooling technology dates back to 1881. They offer homeowners smart technology with professional installation along with energy audits to help them stay cool and save money.

Samsung is a world leader in consumer electronics and appliances. It offers a wide range of products, including home and commercial HVAC systems and air conditioners. Its products are efficient and technologically advanced.

Nortek Global HVAC, formerly Nordyne, has been a heating and cooling manufacturer for over 95 years. Headquartered in Rhode Island, Nortek manufactures several major brands of HVAC systems for contractors and distributors.

Whirlpool is an industry leader in home appliances. Whirlpool manufactures window unit air conditioners for home and business use. These are available to purchase at select retailers and from certified installers nationwide.

Hitachi is a large Japanese multinational company specializing in technological innovations in many sectors. Among its many offerings, Hitachi manufacturers air conditioning units available in some countries, especially India.

Honeywell is a Fortune 100 company and leader in home technology. It offers a selection of heaters for homes, including tower, fan forced, digital, radiator and energy-smart cool touch options, sold at retailers nationwide.

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HVAC questions

Is the unit quiet during operation?

Most new HVAC units run quietly so they don't disturb people who are inside the building. Some window unit air conditioners and space heaters are noisier. It's best if you can see a demonstration of a unit before purchasing to determine how quiet or loud it is.

  • Sealed combustion chambers: Heaters and furnaces either have an open or sealed combustion chamber where the actual burners are located. Sealing the combustion chambers reduces noise coming from the furnace, so if you’re looking for a quiet furnace, be sure the combustion chambers are sealed.
  • Compressor sound blankets: Sound blankets insulate an HVAC system or air conditioner by absorbing sound waves. Many units come with sound blankets, and they can also be added to noisy units to deaden the noise created by air conditioner compressors.
  • Outdoor units placed far from windows: Installing the compressor and other outdoor parts far from windows reduces noise that can disturb building occupants. Talk to your installer about your options.

Is the unit energy efficient?

Energy efficiency refers to whether a unit’s output makes good, efficient use of the electricity or other power source it needs to operate. Both federal guidelines and individual design help HVAC units, air conditioners and heaters save energy.

  • High energy efficiency ratio: Heating and air conditioning units are required to include information on their Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). This is a ratio of the systems output (measured in British thermal units, or BTUs) to the energy input it needs to operate (measured in watts). This ratio tells you how efficiently the system uses energy; the higher the number, the more efficient the unit.
  • Built to federal standards: Since air conditioners are one of the worst environmental offenders, federal guidelines in the United States require air conditioners to have an efficiency rating of at least 13-SEER. This means they provide a specific amount of air conditioning for each unit of energy used. For a more efficient and cost-effective machine, look for an even higher SEER rating.
  • Financial savings: Not only will having an efficient machine use less energy and meet federal and local guidelines, but energy efficiency also means cost savings to you. The energy savings generally translate into lower electricity bills, plus some states offer tax rebates for people who purchase new energy efficient systems and household appliances.

Does the unit hold a constant temperature?

HVAC units, air conditioners and heaters help keep indoor temperatures stable and consistent so users feel more comfortable. But some units can hold a consistent temperature, while others create fluctuating temperatures in your home or office.

  • Heating and cooling capacity: Most HVAC units are designed to keep rooms at constant temperatures for optimal comfort. However, even if it is brand new and working properly, whether or not an HVAC system, heater or air conditioner can actually maintain that temperature depends on the temperature and humidity in your region. In very hot regions, you will need an HVAC or air conditioner with a high tonnage (a measure of air conditioning capacity). Space heaters and other types of room heaters may also be less effective in severely cold regions, and you may need to purchase more than one per room. Be careful to never plug more than one heater into the same outlet, which can overload the outlet and cause a fire.
  • Adjustable ducts: Most HVAC systems allow users to adjust ducts to control temperature in different rooms. This means you can keep bedrooms or living areas cooler than less frequently used rooms, conserving energy and saving money on your electric bill.
  • Return air diffusion: Some HVAC systems are set up so as much air is circulated into the room as is circulated out, thus keeping temperature constant and air clean. Air circulation increases the ability of the unit to hold steady temperatures throughout your home or building.

Is the equipment compliant with safety standards?

There are a lot of health and environmental risks associated with the chemicals and equipment in heating and cooling systems. Federal and state governments issue safety standards to ensure that heating and cooling equipment works correctly and safely.

  • Environmental safety standards: HVAC units, air conditioners and heaters must comply with environmental codes for energy efficiency, clean air and more. It can be hard to know if a given unit meets these standards, but generally major manufacturers in the United States all meet these standards (or else they would not be able to pass inspections and market their products). To be sure, you can look for the Energy Star certification on any heating or air conditioning equipment (as well as many other home appliances), which indicates that the unit has met or exceeded efficiency standards.
  • Environmentally-friendly refrigerants: Air conditioners can be dangerous to the environment because of the chemicals in their refrigerants. Previously, most units used a refrigerant called R-22, but most manufacturers are phasing out production of these units because this chemical can be dangerous. Instead, look for a unit that uses R-410A, which is chlorine-free and safer for your family and the environment.
  • Ventilation standards: HVAC units must provide appropriate ventilation to lower the risk of respiratory infections and complications. The American Society of Heating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHAE) sets the standards for ventilation, which are updated every few years; check to see that your installer is ASHAE-certified, which indicates that they follow the guidelines set by ASHAE.

Is the unit indoors or outdoors?

While heaters and furnaces are usually located inside, HVAC systems and air conditioners can contain both an indoor and outdoor unit for compressing and circulating air appropriately. If you have no outdoor space or prefer an indoor-only unit, your options will be more limited.

  • Outdoor compression units: Many HVAC units come with an outdoor compressor that can be placed at a distance from the building to eliminate noise and improve air quality. This helps to ensure fresh air flow to the dwelling or building.
  • Ducts and vents: Complete HVAC systems typically feature an entire system of ducts throughout a home’s attic or basement area. These ducts connect to vents in every room, allowing warm and cool air to circulate in and out. If your home or building is not equipped with a ventilation system, you can have one installed, but the process is expensive. If you can’t afford or don’t want to install a ventilation system, you will need to rely on window air conditioning units, fans, space heaters and other similar solutions.
  • Furnace location: Many homes in cold regions or areas that experience a cold winter and that do not have a HVAC system often have a furnace instead, which is connected to a duct system to warm the home. Furnaces can be located in any indoor closet but generally should be inaccessible to pets and children, especially if the heating elements are exposed. Many people opt to put the furnace in the garage area. If there is no closet in your garage to house the furnace, consider having one built.

Who will work on the units?

Depending on what type of HVAC or individual heating and cooling units you have installed in your home, you may need to work with various specialists. Be sure there are installers or service people available in your area.

  • Commercial contractors: Commercial contractors help install and repair HVAC systems in commercial buildings. This type of contractor often has specialized knowledge of industry-specific health and safety issues and concerns.
  • Repair specialists: Repair specialists usually focus on the HVAC system as a whole or on individual units like the furnace, air conditioner or fireplace. They keep the heating or cooling system in good working order, perform inspections and complete repairs.
  • HVAC installers: Installers have specific skill sets related to installing new systems or units in homes and offices. They may or may not also repair systems and units.

Types of heating and cooling systems

HVAC systems
  • Regulate air temperature and air quality
  • Options for residences and businesses
  • Can have humidifiers added on
  • Large buildings may need multiple units
Ductless HVAC systems
  • More affordable than entire HVAC systems
  • Exceedingly energy-efficient
  • Quick and easy to install
  • Zoned options available
Portable heat cool units
  • Standalone units
  • Operate by electrical outlet or battery
  • Easy to move from room to room
  • Most affordable option

Who are the best HVAC companies near me?

Local companies can provide the assistance you need quickly. We compared HVAC companies across the U.S. to help you find trusted HVAC contractors in your city.

» MORE: HVAC industry statistics

Heating and cooling systems FAQ

How do I choose an HVAC system?

There are a few steps to take when choosing an HVAC system:

  1. Talk to your home’s architect or designer to receive the name of a recommended HVAC contractor.
  2. Be sure to choose an HVAC unit that can be serviced by local companies.
  3. Choose the right-sized HVAC system. If you purchase an oversized unit with too much heating capacity, you run the risk of decreased efficiency.
  4. Rather than cutting costs with a cheaper system, try to buy a simpler system. You can save money and keep the quality high with a system that may not have extra and unnecessary functions.
How many square feet will a 3-ton AC cool?

Generally speaking, a residential AC system can cool 400 square feet per ton of capacity. So a 3-ton AC unit can cool roughly 1,200 square feet of residential space. However, it's always best to discuss AC options with your contractor, as variables like the condition of your home's insulation affect a unit's efficiency.

How much should a 3-ton AC unit cost installed?

In general, installing a 3-ton AC unit costs between $3,758 and $7,271. However, this price varies based on several factors, including permit fees and the potential need to repair existing ducts.

How much does it cost to replace a furnace and air conditioner?

It typically costs between $2,000 and $5,000 to replace a furnace and between $5,000 and $12,500 to replace an air conditioner. However, if you add a furnace while replacing your air conditioner, you could save some money — possibly around $1,000 to $3,000.

Should I replace my furnace and air conditioner at the same time?

If you need to replace your AC and your furnace is more than a decade old, you may want to think about replacing both at the same time. In these cases, you could save around $1,000 to $3,000. Replacing your furnace doesn’t make much sense if it is functioning well and less than 10 years old.

What is meant by HVAC?

HVAC is an acronym for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. An HVAC system is what provides your home or business with heat and AC.

How much does AC repair cost?

Most homeowners pay an average of $300 for air conditioning repairs. Some common repairs and typical costs are:

  • Flushing a drain line: $75 - $250
  • Replacing a compressor: $1,900
  • Recharging the refrigerant: $250 - $750
  • Replacing the drain pans: $250 - $575
  • Repairing a refrigerant leak: $200 - $1,500
What are three methods of cooling a home?

The great ways to cool your home are:

  • Invest in an air conditioning system: This the best way to keep your home cool and usually increases your home’s value.
  • Make sure your home is adequately insulated: From caulking to weatherstripping, a properly insulated home captures the lower temperature and keeps things cool.
  • Try out some drapes and blinds : Covering your windows with a set of curtains reflects the sun’s heat and naturally reduces the temperature of your home.

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    HVAC company reviews

    All Year Cooling

    All Year Cooling installs, maintains and repairs air conditioning units in South Florida. Since 1973, it has performed more than 150,000 HVAC installations.

    • Same day service and installation: Customers can request same-day services, including installation and repairs. This can come in handy if you need your air conditioning system repaired quickly.
    • Offers both installation and repair services: Consumers can work with the same company for both installation and repairs. This allows the customer to develop a relationship with the contractor.
    • Offers coupons and discounts for families: Private homeowners can often save money when installing or repairing a system from this company. Be sure to check their website to see if they are offering any current promotions.
    • State and county licensing and insurance: Repair and installation contractors are all licensed by the state of Florida and insured by All Year Cooling.
    • Offers financing: Customers who can't pay for an HVAC system all at once may be eligible for a financing plan. All Year Cooling partners with Wells Fargo, Citi Financial and TD Bank to offer financing options to qualified customers. The plans range from 6 to 60 months.
    Read 788 Reviews
    Lindstrom Air Conditioning & Plumbing

    Lindstrom Air Conditioning & Plumbing is a home service and repair company in South Florida. In business since 1975, it offers a variety of HVAC services along with plumbing to keep your home running smoothly.

    Read more about Lindstrom Air Conditioning & Plumbing
    One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning

    Based in Pennsylvania, One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning offers heating and air conditioning installation and repair services throughout Lancaster, York, Daupin, Cumberland, Berks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties. For repairs, installation and maintenance, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning offers quick response times, with 24/7 service available. The company provides both an on-time guarantee and a satisfaction guarantee for its services.

    Read more about One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning
    Nortek Global HVAC

    Nortek Global HVAC, formerly Nordyne LLC, is an HVAC manufacturer specializing in both residential and commercial air quality systems. Nortek provides heating and cooling systems for contractors and distributors who install the systems in consumer homes and businesses.

    Read more about Nortek Global HVAC
    Samsung Air Conditioners

    Samsung was founded in Korea in 1938 as an export company. In 1970, it began production on its first television set and now is an industry leader in high-tech electronics and home appliances. Samsung offers a wide range of home and commercial air conditioners and HVAC systems, sold through authorized dealers and installers in various places worldwide.

    Read more about Samsung Air Conditioners
    Hitachi Air Conditioner

    Founded in 1910, Hitachi is a Japanese technological innovator specializing in information, telecommunications, electronic systems and more. Among its many product offerings, it has a Smart Life & Ecofriendly Systems unit that manufactures high-tech air conditioning units that are available in some countries, primarily India. It also manufacturers HVAC systems for large industrial corporations.

    Read more about Hitachi Air Conditioner
    Whirlpool Air Conditioners

    For over 100 years, Whirlpool has been an industry leader in home appliances. Among many other product offerings, Whirlpool manufactures window unit air conditioners for home and business use. These are available to purchase at select retailers and from certified installers nationwide.

    Read more about Whirlpool Air Conditioners
    Honeywell Heaters

    Honeywell is a global leader in technologically-driven solutions for homes. Among many other offerings, Honeywell innovates and manufactures several heater units for homes, offices and other small spaces. These heaters are available for purchase from select retailers nationwide.

    Read more about Honeywell Heaters

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