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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You want to be comfortable in your Medina home, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on inefficient heating and cooling.
Our guide to Medina's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement.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 indicators that your system needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different maintenance services. Prices for some common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,950-$4,971 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,951-$7,280 | |
Heat Pump | $3,060-$31,177 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $256-$427 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$171 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,280-$3,841 | |
Thermostat Repair | $85-$213 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $410-$1,024 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is vital for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
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 type of 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.
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. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of fantastic customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, brand, and features. Before work starts, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection within your budget.
Get a written estimate before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, you should 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 likely 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 is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider getting a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. 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 depend on factors like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want 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 to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 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 through a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea 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: