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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Energy expenses in Crest Hill are often higher than in other places, which means you're probably trying to save money on your bill.
Our list of Crest Hill's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
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 malfunctioning or old likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the type of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,933-$4,928 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,917-$7,216 | |
Heat Pump | $3,033-$30,903 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $254-$423 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$169 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,269-$3,807 | |
Thermostat Repair | $85-$211 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $406-$1,015 |
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 maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they plan 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, so make sure to check with your municipal government to confirm 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 reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Choose a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about great customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new model, brand, estimated installation time, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A thorough quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. 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 the spring and fall. Technicians are generally 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, the times of the year when it gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, 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 could also consider getting a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will be based on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally 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).
Usually, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn 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: