10 Best HVAC Companies in La Grange Park, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• Odd noises when turning on
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

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

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in La Grange Park

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn't have the right ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of internal units that control the temperature in individual rooms, and that are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either electricity or gas as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by circulating warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't produce heat or air conditioning themselves, and are better for more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, typically in an attic or basement. This unit is often compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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.

• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows effective air circulation through your HVAC system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outdoor sections of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your grills, condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, and ductwork clean helps your system run and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, lets you resolve them before they get out of hand.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.

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 confirm that your contractor meets all the requirements. You can also verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, brand, model, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written estimate before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.