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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Montgomery home, you want to ensure that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Montgomery can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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:
If your HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs 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 pinpoint problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,985-$5,060 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,022-$7,409 | |
Heat Pump | $3,114-$31,731 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $261-$434 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Fortunately, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$174 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,303-$3,909 | |
Thermostat Repair | $87-$217 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $417-$1,042 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
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 what kind of equipment they plan 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.
There are no state-level licensing requirements for contractors in Illinois. However, there may be local regulations. Be 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. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for a a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper operation. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, model, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, and features. Before signing a contract, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should 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. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: