10 Best HVAC Companies in Oak Lawn, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:

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

If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Oak Lawn

HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you likely have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the benefit of having the capability to use either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work more efficiently in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller houses. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, normally located in an attic or basement. They're small, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, 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 filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outdoor sections of your system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning ductwork, grills, indoor evaporator coil, and condenser fan blades helps your HVAC system run efficiently and reduces the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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 on a state-by-state basis.

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 verify that your contractor meets all of the requirements. You can verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. You want to hire a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are finished to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new model, energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, and features. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

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

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.