How long do HVAC systems last?

<div><p>Knowing how long your existing HVAC units can last is essential to determine if you need a repair or replacement. Typically, most modern air conditioning units can last between 15 to 20 years, and most furnaces can work properly for 15 to 30 years. If your HVAC system is on the older side and you decide to replace one unit, it might make sense to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/save-money-replacing-heat-ac-same-time.htm">replace both simultaneously</a> to save on costs and future hassle. </p></div>

What time of year is the cheapest to replace HVAC?

<div><p>While different HVAC contractors might offer higher or lower prices than competitors, the best time to replace your HVAC system is when customer demand is low. The beginning of summer and the beginning of winter bring the most demand for HVAC systems, so if you can, consider replacing your HVAC units in the early spring or fall. Many HVAC companies offer special off-season coupons that help lower the overall cost. </p></div>

How much do HVAC companies typically charge?

<div><p>The average cost to hire an HVAC contractor is between <b>$50 and $150</b> per hour if charging hourly. However, some HVAC contractors will charge a flat fee by the type of service they are performing—for example, an inspection can cost between <b>$150 to $500</b>. Keep in mind that emergency repairs—which are made after business hours or around major holidays—generally cost more than scheduled repairs.</p></div>

Should HVAC technicians be certified or licensed?

<div><p>Yes, most states require <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/which-hvac-certifications-do-technicians-need.htm">HVAC technicians to be certified</a>, and for good reason. Hiring an unlicensed HVAC technician could lead to poor quality work, costly future expenses, and potential code violations. </p><p>As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include: </p><ul><li><p>The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check</p></li><li><p>Required to have applicable state and local licenses</p></li><li><p>Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review</p></li><li><p>Paying to advertise their services</p></li><li><p>Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi </p></li></ul><p>Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.</p></div>

How much are typical HVAC repair costs?

<div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-hvac-repair-cost.htm">The average cost of HVAC repairs</a> is around <b>$350</b>. However, that price can be as low as <b>$100</b> or as high as <b>$2,000</b> or more, depending on the repair. For example, replacing a capacitor is a relatively inexpensive repair, ranging from <b>$100 to $500</b>. However, a compressor repair is a more expensive repair, ranging from <b>$750 to $2,000</b>. </p></div>

Top 10 Best Heating and air conditioning pros in Essex, MD

Heating & Cooling Certified Mechanic

Heating & Cooling Certified Mechanic

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

234 local quotes requested

With over a decade of experience, Heating & Cooling Certified Mechanic is professionally licensed and dedicated to ensure your HVAC service/install exceeds your expectations! We specialize in HVAC services, repairs and we guarantee your satisfaction! We will not leave until the job is done right! We pride ourselves on the quality of work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Call or click for your FREE estimate today! HVAC, Water Heater, Air Quality System Installations, Repairs & More Need repair? Call Today, Need Installation or a 2nd Opinion? Call Today. 24 Hour Service CALL TODAY! CALL TONIGHT!

"The estimate process went very smoothly. The proposal was well written & allowed electronic signature. Communication leading up to the install date was timely and professional. The work was completed on time and correctly. The installation team was friendly and competent."

Stanley R on July 2025

With over a decade of experience, Heating & Cooling Certified Mechanic is professionally licensed and dedicated to ensure your HVAC service/install exceeds your expectations! We specialize in HVAC services, repairs and we guarantee your satisfaction! We will not leave until the job is done right! We pride ourselves on the quality of work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Call or click for your FREE estimate today! HVAC, Water Heater, Air Quality System Installations, Repairs & More Need repair? Call Today, Need Installation or a 2nd Opinion? Call Today. 24 Hour Service CALL TODAY! CALL TONIGHT!

"The estimate process went very smoothly. The proposal was well written & allowed electronic signature. Communication leading up to the install date was timely and professional. The work was completed on time and correctly. The installation team was friendly and competent."

Stanley R on July 2025

No-Frost Air Conditioning & Heating, LLC

No-Frost Air Conditioning & Heating, LLC

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

122 local quotes requested

Family owned & operated. Additional contact name - Eileen Bangs - Award winning. Additional Licensing Information: MD Master Gas Fitter 6631. Baltimore County License: JG9033. Howard County License: G-9018. Carroll County License: P00068G. Electrical Licensing - Howard County License: 390, Baltimore County License: 547. MHIC12699.

"My system was working fine before the technician arrived. Afterwards my system failed. I contacted this company based upon Angis List recommendations. The technician talked me out of the services I requested and left me with an non working system."

Adi G on August 2023

Family owned & operated. Additional contact name - Eileen Bangs - Award winning. Additional Licensing Information: MD Master Gas Fitter 6631. Baltimore County License: JG9033. Howard County License: G-9018. Carroll County License: P00068G. Electrical Licensing - Howard County License: 390, Baltimore County License: 547. MHIC12699.

"My system was working fine before the technician arrived. Afterwards my system failed. I contacted this company based upon Angis List recommendations. The technician talked me out of the services I requested and left me with an non working system."

Adi G on August 2023

Atlas Home Energy Solutions LLC

Atlas Home Energy Solutions LLC

Customers say: True professional

Recommended by 98% of Angi customers

31 local quotes requested

Atlas Home Energy Solutions is committed to providing the highest quality home energy improvements to homeowners interested in reducing their utility bills and improving the comfort of their home year round. Customer Satisfaction is our number one priority and we promise that we can make a real impact in your home in a way that keeps you happy every step of the way.

"I contacted Atlas not because of high energy bills but because of noticeable summertime temperature differences between the first and second floors. My home is 32 years old and had never had the ducts cleaned and I suspected there was leakage from seams in the duct work. While the house was built to the then current (1988) code levels, the code is now more stringent. For example, my attic insulation was R30 where code is now R50. Atlas first performed an energy audit. Based upon that outcome, they recommended: (1) rerouting the bathroom exhaust fans through the roof, (2) additional insulation in the attic bringing it to R50. (3) closed cell foam sealing in the main and garage attics where appropriate, (4) cleaning the heating/cooling ducts and (5) using the AeroSeal product in the same ducts. I opted for all of these services. The work was spread over 3 occasions, each no more than 2 days duration with most completed in a single day. Their friendly work crews were very attentive to my property, made sure to put down drop cloths throughout the house and generally made certain everything was clean upon leaving. They kept me informed throughout every task and showed/explained what they had encountered. My ducts certainly did need cleaning, even though it’s always been a smoke free home environment and without pets. The benefits of this work have been fantastic. The AeroSeal process yielded a 98% reduction in duct leakage. I can tell very little temperature difference between the first and second floors now. I’m expecting more noticeable improvements during the winter months. I strongly without reservation recommend Atlas Home Energy Solutions."

Patrick H on September 2021

Atlas Home Energy Solutions is committed to providing the highest quality home energy improvements to homeowners interested in reducing their utility bills and improving the comfort of their home year round. Customer Satisfaction is our number one priority and we promise that we can make a real impact in your home in a way that keeps you happy every step of the way.

"I contacted Atlas not because of high energy bills but because of noticeable summertime temperature differences between the first and second floors. My home is 32 years old and had never had the ducts cleaned and I suspected there was leakage from seams in the duct work. While the house was built to the then current (1988) code levels, the code is now more stringent. For example, my attic insulation was R30 where code is now R50. Atlas first performed an energy audit. Based upon that outcome, they recommended: (1) rerouting the bathroom exhaust fans through the roof, (2) additional insulation in the attic bringing it to R50. (3) closed cell foam sealing in the main and garage attics where appropriate, (4) cleaning the heating/cooling ducts and (5) using the AeroSeal product in the same ducts. I opted for all of these services. The work was spread over 3 occasions, each no more than 2 days duration with most completed in a single day. Their friendly work crews were very attentive to my property, made sure to put down drop cloths throughout the house and generally made certain everything was clean upon leaving. They kept me informed throughout every task and showed/explained what they had encountered. My ducts certainly did need cleaning, even though it’s always been a smoke free home environment and without pets. The benefits of this work have been fantastic. The AeroSeal process yielded a 98% reduction in duct leakage. I can tell very little temperature difference between the first and second floors now. I’m expecting more noticeable improvements during the winter months. I strongly without reservation recommend Atlas Home Energy Solutions."

Patrick H on September 2021

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

251 local quotes requested

When you need A/C, heating, or plumbing services, look no further than Horizon Services. For nearly 30 years, we’ve been the trusted name in plumbing, heating, and air conditioning, offering an unmatched level of service at reasonable rates.

"Very well. They were very professional and efficient."

Barbara B on January 2023

When you need A/C, heating, or plumbing services, look no further than Horizon Services. For nearly 30 years, we’ve been the trusted name in plumbing, heating, and air conditioning, offering an unmatched level of service at reasonable rates.

"Very well. They were very professional and efficient."

Barbara B on January 2023

Buric Heating and Air Conditioning

Buric Heating and Air Conditioning

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 90% of Angi customers

44 local quotes requested

**Call us today for a FREE ESTIMATE on Heating or AC system replacements!** With over 19 years of experience, Buric Heating and Air Conditioning is a full service residential heating and cooling company that has offered Ellicott City, MD and its surrounding areas with plenty of jobs well done. By offering straight forward pricing and free estimates on equipment installations or replacements, you can trust that they are the right HVAC professionals for you. Call today for your next appointment!

"They installed our AC system; that went fine. But several years later, when it needed repair. They came out and looked at the problem, and then ghosted me. They didn't return my multiple calls. When I finally got somebody else to come out to look at the problem, they told me that the warranty had just expired on the part that needed replacing. Putting 2 +2 together, Buric ghosted me to run out the clock on my warranty for the repair of the product they installed. Would you ever hire anybody who behaves like that???"

Noam S on June 2022

**Call us today for a FREE ESTIMATE on Heating or AC system replacements!** With over 19 years of experience, Buric Heating and Air Conditioning is a full service residential heating and cooling company that has offered Ellicott City, MD and its surrounding areas with plenty of jobs well done. By offering straight forward pricing and free estimates on equipment installations or replacements, you can trust that they are the right HVAC professionals for you. Call today for your next appointment!

"They installed our AC system; that went fine. But several years later, when it needed repair. They came out and looked at the problem, and then ghosted me. They didn't return my multiple calls. When I finally got somebody else to come out to look at the problem, they told me that the warranty had just expired on the part that needed replacing. Putting 2 +2 together, Buric ghosted me to run out the clock on my warranty for the repair of the product they installed. Would you ever hire anybody who behaves like that???"

Noam S on June 2022

MARYLAND HEATING & COOLING

MARYLAND HEATING & COOLING

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 98% of Angi customers

25 local quotes requested

Maryland Heating & Cooling is a family owned & operated HVAC business located in Howard County. We provide service and replacement of HVAC systems & install IAQ products such as air purifiers, air cleaners and humidifiers. Emergency service is available 7- days a week with no overtime or weekend rate Our staff is well skilled and our licensed service technicians are top notch, therefore providing you with outstanding service. You can always count on us to be on time and provide you with an honest evaluation of your HVAC system. We look forward to helping you with all your HVAC needs. Call us today. 410-465-0081

"Good, and everything got done in one day."

Gil C on October 2024

Maryland Heating & Cooling is a family owned & operated HVAC business located in Howard County. We provide service and replacement of HVAC systems & install IAQ products such as air purifiers, air cleaners and humidifiers. Emergency service is available 7- days a week with no overtime or weekend rate Our staff is well skilled and our licensed service technicians are top notch, therefore providing you with outstanding service. You can always count on us to be on time and provide you with an honest evaluation of your HVAC system. We look forward to helping you with all your HVAC needs. Call us today. 410-465-0081

"Good, and everything got done in one day."

Gil C on October 2024

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

866 local quotes requested

GAC Services is a residential cooling, heating, and electrical contractor setting new standards in the Maryland HVAC and electric market. Since 1970, we’ve developed a strong reputation for providing the Montgomery County and Frederick County areas with reliable cooling and heating services. In 2014, we expanded our service offerings to include electrical services—allowing us to offer our customers the same great service in a new area of business. Additional DBA: Gaithersburg Heating & Cooling

"Highly professional, knowledgeable and well behaved technician. Prices offered were good too. I definitely recommend the company."

Deepak K on February 2025

GAC Services is a residential cooling, heating, and electrical contractor setting new standards in the Maryland HVAC and electric market. Since 1970, we’ve developed a strong reputation for providing the Montgomery County and Frederick County areas with reliable cooling and heating services. In 2014, we expanded our service offerings to include electrical services—allowing us to offer our customers the same great service in a new area of business. Additional DBA: Gaithersburg Heating & Cooling

"Highly professional, knowledgeable and well behaved technician. Prices offered were good too. I definitely recommend the company."

Deepak K on February 2025

JDL HVAC & Plumbing Services

JDL HVAC & Plumbing Services

Customers say: Super punctual

311 local quotes requested

13 years of experience

JDL HVAC & Plumbing Services LLC offers a wide range of services to meet your HVAC & Plumbing needs. With offices in both Maryland & Virginia, we serve both residential and commercial clients and specialize in offering a variety of money-saving solutions. Combined with our use of the highest quality parts and equipment and our dedication to delivering exceptional service, we have become known as the HVAC & Plumbing contractor of choice in the DMV area! The mission of JDL is to provide honest, reliable service that stands head and shoulders above the rest. We continually strive to exceed expectations by ensuring that each client receives the very best service from our friendly and knowledgeable HVAC/Plumbing service technicians. No matter what you need you can rely on JDL to provide an unparalleled knowledge, experience and expertise!

"They did a good job"

Richard T on June 2024

JDL HVAC & Plumbing Services LLC offers a wide range of services to meet your HVAC & Plumbing needs. With offices in both Maryland & Virginia, we serve both residential and commercial clients and specialize in offering a variety of money-saving solutions. Combined with our use of the highest quality parts and equipment and our dedication to delivering exceptional service, we have become known as the HVAC & Plumbing contractor of choice in the DMV area! The mission of JDL is to provide honest, reliable service that stands head and shoulders above the rest. We continually strive to exceed expectations by ensuring that each client receives the very best service from our friendly and knowledgeable HVAC/Plumbing service technicians. No matter what you need you can rely on JDL to provide an unparalleled knowledge, experience and expertise!

"They did a good job"

Richard T on June 2024

Sila Heating, Cooling and Plumbing

7000 Virginia Manor Rd

Sila Heating, Cooling and Plumbing

7000 Virginia Manor Rd

Customers say: Super punctual

796 local quotes requested

36 years of experience

Live Your Most Comfortable Life with a Company You Trust. We offer Same Day Service and Next Day Installation! Sila has been the center of delighting homeowners since 1989, with our team of engineers, certified technicians, and system designers that are proud to deliver the highest level of expertise in the HVAC industry. Whether it’s a repair, replacement, installation, or service, we have an unwavering commitment to keeping you and your family comfortable and safe — season after season. We guarantee satisfaction and are proud to have earned over 7,000 “A” ratings on Angie’s List and its prestigious Super Service Award!

"They charged $98 to come give me an estimate for swapping our a shower valve cartridge, which was fine, but the pricing they provided was completely unreasonable, $1,000. They were unwilling to provide any detail for the price. I ended up buy the part myself for $30 and replaced it in 30 minutes."

Tom A on October 2024

Live Your Most Comfortable Life with a Company You Trust. We offer Same Day Service and Next Day Installation! Sila has been the center of delighting homeowners since 1989, with our team of engineers, certified technicians, and system designers that are proud to deliver the highest level of expertise in the HVAC industry. Whether it’s a repair, replacement, installation, or service, we have an unwavering commitment to keeping you and your family comfortable and safe — season after season. We guarantee satisfaction and are proud to have earned over 7,000 “A” ratings on Angie’s List and its prestigious Super Service Award!

"They charged $98 to come give me an estimate for swapping our a shower valve cartridge, which was fine, but the pricing they provided was completely unreasonable, $1,000. They were unwilling to provide any detail for the price. I ended up buy the part myself for $30 and replaced it in 30 minutes."

Tom A on October 2024

American Chimney Contractor Near Me

American Chimney Contractor Near Me

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

139 local quotes requested

American Chimney Contractor Near Me LLC & American HVAC Contractors MD have partnered to bring you the ultimate one-stop solution for all your home comfort needs in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. We've combined our expertise to offer a comprehensive range of services, allowing you to schedule a single appointment for multiple needs. We are committed to providing top-notch service and ensuring your complete satisfaction. Our services include: Chimney & Fireplace Services: -Chimney Cleaning: Professional sweeping to remove creosote, soot, and blockages, preventing chimney fires and improving efficiency. -Chimney Inspection: Thorough inspection of your chimney's structure, flue, and cap to identify potential hazards and needed repairs. -Chimney Repair: From minor mortar fixes to major structural repairs, we handle all types of chimney damage. -Chimney Relining: Installation of new liners (stainless steel, clay, or cast-in-place) to restore the safety and integrity of your flue. -Fireplace Installations: Expert installation of new fireplaces, stoves, and inserts to enhance your home's ambiance and warmth. -Dryer Vent Cleaning & Re-routing: Professional cleaning to remove lint buildup, reduce fire risk, and improve dryer efficiency. We also offer re-routing services for optimal performance. HVAC Services: -AC System Installation: Professional installation of new, high-efficiency air conditioning systems to keep your home cool and comfortable. -AC System Repair: Fast and reliable repairs for all makes and models of AC units, addressing issues from refrigerant leaks to electrical problems. -AC System Maintenance: Routine tune-ups to maximize your system's performance, extend its lifespan, and prevent costly breakdowns. -Heating System Installation: Expert installation of furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps for reliable warmth throughout the colder months. -Heating System Repair: Quick and efficient repairs to restore heat and safety to your home, no matter the issue. -Heating System Maintenance: Regular check-ups to ensure your heating system operates safely and efficiently all winter long. -Ductless Heating and AC Services: Installation, repair, and maintenance of ductless mini-split systems for zoned comfort savings.

"I am impressed with the services I got from American Contractor Near Me LLC Their team was friendly and professional, and did a great job installing the chimney. They worked quickly and thoroughly, and they left my property clean. I was shocked at how much it changed! Their prices were fair, and the work they did was excellent. Do not be afraid to hire them to work on your chimney. They are the best at what they do!"

Adam H on July 2025

American Chimney Contractor Near Me LLC & American HVAC Contractors MD have partnered to bring you the ultimate one-stop solution for all your home comfort needs in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. We've combined our expertise to offer a comprehensive range of services, allowing you to schedule a single appointment for multiple needs. We are committed to providing top-notch service and ensuring your complete satisfaction. Our services include: Chimney & Fireplace Services: -Chimney Cleaning: Professional sweeping to remove creosote, soot, and blockages, preventing chimney fires and improving efficiency. -Chimney Inspection: Thorough inspection of your chimney's structure, flue, and cap to identify potential hazards and needed repairs. -Chimney Repair: From minor mortar fixes to major structural repairs, we handle all types of chimney damage. -Chimney Relining: Installation of new liners (stainless steel, clay, or cast-in-place) to restore the safety and integrity of your flue. -Fireplace Installations: Expert installation of new fireplaces, stoves, and inserts to enhance your home's ambiance and warmth. -Dryer Vent Cleaning & Re-routing: Professional cleaning to remove lint buildup, reduce fire risk, and improve dryer efficiency. We also offer re-routing services for optimal performance. HVAC Services: -AC System Installation: Professional installation of new, high-efficiency air conditioning systems to keep your home cool and comfortable. -AC System Repair: Fast and reliable repairs for all makes and models of AC units, addressing issues from refrigerant leaks to electrical problems. -AC System Maintenance: Routine tune-ups to maximize your system's performance, extend its lifespan, and prevent costly breakdowns. -Heating System Installation: Expert installation of furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps for reliable warmth throughout the colder months. -Heating System Repair: Quick and efficient repairs to restore heat and safety to your home, no matter the issue. -Heating System Maintenance: Regular check-ups to ensure your heating system operates safely and efficiently all winter long. -Ductless Heating and AC Services: Installation, repair, and maintenance of ductless mini-split systems for zoned comfort savings.

"I am impressed with the services I got from American Contractor Near Me LLC Their team was friendly and professional, and did a great job installing the chimney. They worked quickly and thoroughly, and they left my property clean. I was shocked at how much it changed! Their prices were fair, and the work they did was excellent. Do not be afraid to hire them to work on your chimney. They are the best at what they do!"

Adam H on July 2025