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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. Since heating and cooling represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to ensure that the HVAC system in your Northbrook home is functioning optimally.
Our guide to Northbrook's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
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:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement.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 these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different maintenance services. Costs for some common services are 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 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some 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 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
When looking for an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. 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 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). Choose a company with positive reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, features, and brand. Before signing a contract, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A thorough quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, you should have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. 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 reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider getting a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas 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 an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In general, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company 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: