10 Best HVAC Companies in Granite City, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs expert attention:

• Odd noises when turning on
• Rust, corrosion, or cracking
• Unusually high energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Granite City

The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the type of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but is able to utilize either electricity or gas as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by circulating hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't create heat or air conditioning themselves, and are better for more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, typically located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and ductwork regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it begins to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leave your blinds open so your home benefits from passive solar heat. In summer, keep blinds shut to block out heat. Doing both lowers the amount of work your HVAC system must perform.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the external sections of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is vital for a successful installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

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 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor 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 by the state.

The state of Illinois doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for contractors. However, there may be local regulations, so make sure to check with your municipal government to verify that your contractor meets all the requirements. You can also verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Choose a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new features, energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, and brand. Before signing a contract, be 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. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written estimates before starting any HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.