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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. With so much money invested in heating and cooling your Cortland home, you want to ensure that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Cortland can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
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 home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,850-$4,715 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,748-$6,905 | |
Heat Pump | $2,902-$29,570 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $243-$405 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$162 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,214-$3,643 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$202 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $389-$971 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians 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.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with). Section 608 certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.
There are no state-level licensing requirements for contractors in Illinois. However, there may be local regulations. Be 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. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of your project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new brand, model, features, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A thorough quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it 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 try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You may also consider getting a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need 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 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).
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: