10 Best HVAC Companies in Gurnee, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:

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

Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Gurnee

HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for central heating and cooling often have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of interior units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move hot and cold air between your home and outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work better in milder climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller houses. They have a single cooling and heating unit, usually in a basement or attic. This unit is often compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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.

• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and condenser fan blades regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Opening your blinds in winter allows passive solar heat into your house. Closing your blinds in summer blocks some heat from getting indoors. Both of these measures help lower the work required from your home’s HVAC system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, helps you resolve them before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows through your HVAC system most effectively when you change out or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also try not to let debris pile up on the outside areas of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When selecting an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "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.

There are no state-level licensing requirements for contractors in Illinois. 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 verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. When getting 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 replacing your HVAC, request that the installation company describe the new brand, energy efficiency, features, model, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.