HVAC
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and it's essentially what keeps your home comfortable year-round. Whether you're troubleshooting a furnace that won't kick on, upgrading to a more efficient system, or scheduling routine maintenance, understanding your options makes all the difference. Angi helps you connect with local pros and provides the resources you need to make informed decisions about your home's climate control.
HVAC Articles and Advice
Common HVAC Questions
The best way to tell is if there’s a label, but there are other methods. Gas heaters will have gas lines leading to the unit, with a pilot light near the bottom of the tank (this is sometimes behind a small panel). Electric units often have lights to signal if they’re heating or not and may have electric panels to control the unit. If there is a vent pipe leading from your heater, it’s almost certainly gas-powered.
BTUs, or British Thermal Units, measure the amount of heat needed to increase a pound of water’s temperature by 1 degree Fahrenheit. In HVAC, tonnage refers to a system’s ability to cool a space by removing heat, and it is dependent on how many BTUs your unit absorbs and removes per hour.
The average cost for HVAC repairs is approximately $350. However, prices can range from as low as $100 to as high as $3,000 or more, depending on the type of repair and the extent of the damage. For example, a relatively inexpensive capacitor replacement may cost $100 to $500, while a major compressor repair can range from $750 to $2,000. Other common repairs and their typical costs include:
Blower motor repair: $200–$500
Circuit board repairs: $100–$600
Evaporator or condenser coil repair: $400–$1,500
Heat exchanger repair: $100–$200
Thermostat repair: $175
A new HVAC system combines components to control indoor temperature and air quality. Features include a furnace or heat pump and an air conditioner or evaporator coil, depending on the climate requirements. It also involves a network of ductwork for air distribution, a thermostat for temperature regulation, and electrical connections. Air purifiers or humidifiers can be integrated to improve indoor air quality.
During heating and cooling service projects, several hidden or unexpected costs can arise. Common expenses include permit and inspection fees, upgrading outdated electrical panels, and repairing, replacing, or modifying aging ductwork. In older homes, you might also face costs for asbestos abatement or addressing outdated wiring. Other potential expenses involve bringing systems up to current building codes, making energy efficiency improvements, or fixing issues discovered during inspection, such as refrigerant leaks. Depending on the project's scope, you might also need foundation or chimney modifications. Local factors, like weather-related delays, can also impact the budget, as can the need for emergency HVAC solutions.