10 Best HVAC Companies in Mokena, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

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

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

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Mokena

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork can't accommodate a central HVAC system, you likely have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units all 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 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 more effective in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. They're small, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

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

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, 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 the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your home’s HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows efficient air circulation through your HVAC system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the outdoor sections of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get out of hand.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, ductwork, grills, and indoor evaporator coil clean helps your system run and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.

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 three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors 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 at the state level.

Illinois doesn't have state-level contractor licensing requirements. 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. Reviewing feedback on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of your project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new estimated installation time, model, brand, features, and energy efficiency. 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.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

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