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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You want to be comfortable in your Elmwood Park home, but you also don't want to waste your money on inefficient heating and cooling.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Elmwood Park.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quotes
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:
If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system needs expert attention:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance will vary depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Fees for typical jobs 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 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$172 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,286-$3,859 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $412-$1,029 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.
Illinois doesn't have state-level contractor licensing requirements. However, there may be local regulations. Be sure to check with your municipal government to confirm that your contractor meets all of the requirements. You can 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. You want to hire a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, energy efficiency, model, brand, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the best protection for a fair price.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, making 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 sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain the temperature of your home. 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 could also consider getting a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Usually, 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 speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to find out what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: