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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 Du Page can be steeper than in some other places, which means you're probably trying to save money on your bill.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Du Page to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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 having issues or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common 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 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
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. 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.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper 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, individuals 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 verify that your contractor meets all of the requirements. You can verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a provider with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of your project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail 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 getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, model, and brand. Before work begins, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reputable HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get written estimates before beginning HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected 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 ensures that your system is 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 reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider purchasing 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 takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system 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 is likely to 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 have financing 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: