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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like most Americans, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. You want your Clear Lake home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on inefficient cooling and heating.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Clear Lake to help you hire the right person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
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:
If your HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,840-$4,690 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,728-$6,868 | |
Heat Pump | $2,886-$29,411 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $242-$403 |
It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $60-$161 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,208-$3,623 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$201 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $386-$966 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all contractors 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 at the state level.
The state of Illinois doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for contractors. However, there may be local regulations, so make sure to check with your municipal government to verify that your contractor meets all of the requirements. You can also verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for a a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the exact parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, features, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection within your budget.
Get written bids before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain the temperature of your home. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window units for cooling.
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).
Normally, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: