Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. Since heating and cooling represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Elk Grove home is functioning optimally.
We've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Elk Grove to help you choose the right person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
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 is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for some common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,960-$4,995 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,971-$7,315 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,074-$31,328 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $257-$429 |
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 methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$172 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,286-$3,859 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $412-$1,029 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the type of 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 on a state-by-state basis.
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. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new model, brand, features, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before signing paperwork, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for a fair price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it probably 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 you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. 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 how large your home is, how easily accessible different areas 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 homes 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).
Normally, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
