10 Best HVAC
in Decatur, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is having issues or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Decatur

HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties 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 internal units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either electricity or gas as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by transferring hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't create heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more effective in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller houses. Packaged systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices 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:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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 slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.

• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, condenser fan blades, and grills helps your HVAC system run efficiently and reduces your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your heating and cooling system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get out of hand.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows through your HVAC system most effectively when you replace or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the outdoor parts of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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 fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with skilled 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, contractors 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 at the state level.

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 confirm that your contractor meets all 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 company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are finished to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, model, and brand. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

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

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.