Get Quotes from Top HVAC Contractors in Baton Rouge, LA

Questions to Ask Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge features a unique blend of Cajun and Creole cultures and offers many outdoor thrills to visitors and locals, including golfing, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and fishing. Nevertheless, the city's high temperatures and frequent heat waves make it necessary to take breaks and refresh inside before going out again for the next adventure. Luckily, over 600 experienced HVACR technicians in the Baton Rouge area are ready to help with all your cooling and heating needs.

These mechanics provide installation, repair, tune-ups, and upgrade services for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. When looking for an HVACR contractor in the "Red Stick City," it is smart to verify the professional's licensing status, insurance coverage, area of specialization, and quotation for the job. Among others, these factors influence the level of service you will receive and your satisfaction with the job. So, you should ask the following key questions before hiring a contractor for your HVAC project:

What Do I Need to Know Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor in Baton Rouge?

When maintaining and installing air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems in Baton Rouge, the HVAC contractor handling the job must be appropriately licensed and experienced. These reputable professionals possess the skills and expertise to provide quality services and reduce your energy consumption. A licensed Baton Rouge contractor will also ensure to follow the proper Louisiana Mechanical Code and other internationally recognized ventilation and indoor air quality standards.

So, contact a licensed and experienced HVAC contractor in Baton Rouge to handle any of the following HVAC jobs:

  • Heat pump repair
  • Air quality testing
  • Filter replacements
  • Duct cleaning and air duct sealing
  • Energy-efficient HVAC equipment upgrades
  • Forced-air furnace installation and tune-ups
  • Whole building HVAC system design and installation
  • Central A.C. and ductless mini-split systems installation and repair

Are You Licensed as an HVAC Contractor in Baton Rouge?

Any HVAC contractor providing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration services on residential, commercial, or industrial buildings in Baton Rouge must obtain a mechanical contractor license from the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC). Interested contractors applying for this license must meet the following criteria:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Attend a formal HVAC certificate program or a college/university for two years.
  • Complete a formal apprenticeship under the supervision of a licensed contractor.
  • Provide proof of a current financial statement affidavit with at least $10,000 net worth.
  • Take a business and law course.
  • Pass a trade exam.

In addition, any HVAC contractor handling equipment or devices containing refrigerants must obtain a federally-mandated Section 608 certification through an EPA-approved agency. These requirements ensure that only licensed and authorized HVAC contractors provide services in Baton Rouge. Providing HVAC services without a valid state-issued license is an offense that attracts fines and penalties determined by the Board.

To check the license status of your prospective HVAC contractor in Baton Rouge, you can use the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors' online contractor search platform. Contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) at (225) 765-2301 or (800) 256-1392 to learn more about the licensing requirements and process for HVAC contractors in Baton Rouge.

What Rates Do You Charge for Your HVAC Services in Baton Rouge?

Typically, HVAC contractors in Baton Rouge charges vary from $200 to $14,500, depending on factors like the following:

  • The nature and scope of the required work
  • The complexity and urgency of the job
  • The type and size of HVAC equipment involved
  • Your preferred HVAC contractor's local reputation
  • The cost of pulling a permit
  • Other fees and miscellaneous expenses like post-project renovations and getting equipment-enhancing components

We recommend you get and compare cost estimates from multiple HVAC contractors in Baton Rouge before making your final hiring decision. This will allow you to assess the project's total cost and avoid getting ripped off by dishonest contractors.

Will My HVAC Project Require a Permit in Baton Rouge?

Residential and commercial projects that involve installing, converting, replacing, altering, repairing, or removing heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems in Baton Rouge require a permit. The Baton Rouge Department of Development is responsible for issuing these permits to HVAC contractors with mechanical contractor licenses and homeowners. Contact the Permits & Inspections Division for more information about permit requirements in Baton Rouge at

300 North
Tenth Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Phone: (225) 389-3205

What Type of HVAC Services Do You Offer in Baton Rouge?

HVAC contractors in Baton Rouge provide various services to help ensure the air and heating systems of city residents and businesses operate efficiently. These contractors typically charge a minimum service fee of $75 - $200 and an average hourly rate of around $75 to $150. Below are some typical price estimates for HVAC services offered in Baton Rouge:

Air Conditioner Installation:
$3,430 - $4,514
Air Conditioner Repair:
$75 - $1,000
Forced Air Furnace Installation:
$2,405 - $7,500
Forced Air Furnace Repair:
$85 - $1,850
Whole House Humidifier Installation:
$354 - $418
Thermostat Installation:
$120 - $137
Central Air Purifier Installation:
$906 - $1,248
Electric Baseboard/Wall Heater Installation:
$165 - $550 per heater
Emergency repair services for unexpected breakdowns:
$100 - $250 (on top of regular charges)

Will You Be Doing the Work, or Do You Outsource the HVAC Work in Baton Rouge?

While it is common for HVAC professionals in Baton Rouge to carry out their projects by themselves, they may sometimes have to ask for help from subcontractors to meet specific deadlines or complete jobs faster. Therefore, when negotiating with your prospective contractor, it is important to confirm if they will handle all aspects of the project themselves or outsource any part to third parties.

To prevent potential problems with subcontractors that may be involved in your project, we recommend that you take the following steps:

  • Verify that the HVAC subcontractors are licensed and experienced.
  • Verify the subcontractors' insurance status.
  • Request lien waivers from the subcontractors to protect yourself if the primary HVAC contractor fails to pay them on time.

Are You a Fully Insured and Bonded Baton Rouge HVAC Contractor?

HVAC contractors in Baton Rouge working on residential buildings must maintain general liability insurance with a minimum of $100,000 and carry workers' compensation insurance for employees, if applicable. Regardless of whether you are planning a residential or commercial project, we recommend hiring a contractor with adequate insurance coverage to protect you from any liability caused by the HVAC services they provide.

So, before hiring an HVAC contractor to work on your home or business in Baton Rouge, ensure they carry the necessary and adequate insurance coverage for your project. You can contact the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) at (225) 765-2301 or (800) 256-1392 to learn more about insurance requirements for licensed HVAC contractors in the city.

Do You Offer Any Warranties on Your HVAC Work in Baton Rouge?

When choosing an HVAC contractor, it is crucial to confirm whether they offer warranties covering their services and the materials for your project. Usually, warranties covering HVAC contractor services last about a year or two, while those covering installed or replaced equipment typically last for around five to ten years. Still, be aware that the contractor and type of materials used will determine the terms and conditions of any specific warranty you are offered.

Hence, before hiring an HVAC contractor in Baton Rouge, ask for a written copy of any warranties you are offered so you can thoroughly understand their terms and conditions. Only hire an HVAC contractor who offers and is willing to provide a written copy of their warranties.

How Do I Resolve Any Issue I Have with Your HVAC Services in Baton Rouge?

If you have concerns about a Baton Rouge HVAC contractor's services or business practice, you can report them to the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) by completing an online complaint form or mailing in a completed File a Complaint Against a Contractor Form to

600 North Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802

You can also file complaints regarding HVAC services and contractors in Baton Rouge with the Louisiana Attorney General's Office by completing an online consumer dispute form or by sending a completed consumer dispute form by mail to

Office of the Attorney General
Consumer Protection Section

P.O. Box 94005
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9005