10 Best HVAC Companies in Richton Park, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is having issues or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Odd noises when turning on
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Richton Park

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by having the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by transferring warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't produce heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more suited to more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller houses. They have a single heating and cooling unit, typically in a basement or attic. This unit is often space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs 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 minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, grills, and ductwork regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it begins to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This helps you address issues before they get out of hand.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your home’s HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows efficient air circulation through your system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the external parts of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they intend 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.

There are no state-level licensing requirements for contractors in Illinois. 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. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know the details of your project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are done to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask your contractor to provide details on the new features, model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and brand. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the most comprehensive protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.