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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Broadview home, you want to ensure that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to Broadview's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on hvac companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,960-$4,995 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,971-$7,315 | |
Heat Pump | $3,074-$31,328 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $257-$429 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$172 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,286-$3,859 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $412-$1,029 |
Finding the right HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When looking for an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.
Illinois doesn't have state-level contractor licensing requirements. However, there may be local regulations, so make sure to check with your municipal government to verify that your contractor meets all the requirements. You can verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You want to hire a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, brand, energy efficiency, model, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You may also consider installing a smart thermostat.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Your HVAC company might offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.