Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. It's important that the cooling and heating systems in your Fort Russell home are working properly, so that you don't spend more than you need to.
Our list of Fort Russell's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
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 servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will differ depending on the type of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,881-$4,796 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,812-$7,023 | |
Heat Pump | $2,951-$30,074 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$412 |
It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,235-$3,705 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $395-$988 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with highly 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, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what 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.
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. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system estimated installation time, energy efficiency, model, features, and brand. Before starting the project, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. 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 likely sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You may also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: