Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. Energy expenses in Park Ridge tend to be higher than in some other places, meaning that you're probably trying to save money on your bill.
We've researched and assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Park Ridge to help you choose the right person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make fixes or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs 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 complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$172 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,286-$3,859 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $412-$1,029 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. 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 by the state.
The state of Illinois doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for contractors. However, there may be local regulations, so make 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. Reviewing feedback on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
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 your system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new features, model, energy efficiency, brand, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection for the fairest price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets 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 could also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to find out what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
