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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the average American, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. In Lincolnwood, you're likely looking to reduce your energy usage and save money.
Browse our guide to the top HVAC companies in Lincolnwood to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
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:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is 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 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$172 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,286-$3,859 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $412-$1,029 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the 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 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 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), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.
Make sure you know the details of your project before it begins. 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. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new brand, model, features, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's smart to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will be based on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for 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. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: