10 Best HVAC Companies in Collinsville, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:

• Higher than normal energy bills
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Odd noises when turning on
• Refrigerant leaks
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Collinsville

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by having the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work more effectively in more temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller houses. Packaged systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit, usually located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and grills clean helps your system run and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keep an eye on your system for issues, for example by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills. This allows you to address issues before they get out of hand.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your home’s HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outdoor sections of your system.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required 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 what kind 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.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, features, and brand. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.