10 Best HVAC Companies in Oak Brook, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's broken or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:

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

If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Oak Brook

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control frequently have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of indoor units in each room to regulate temperature, which all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either gas or electricity as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work best in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, usually located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically small, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

• Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outside areas of your system.
• 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 whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Opening your blinds in winter allows passive solar heat into your house. Closing your blinds in summer blocks some heat from getting indoors. Both of these measures help lower the work required from your home’s HVAC system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is key for a successful installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

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, contractors must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the 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 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 verify 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 check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Choose a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, brand, estimated installation time, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written estimates before starting HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.