10 Best HVAC Companies in Rock Falls, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:

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

If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Rock Falls

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the right ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of internal units that control the temperature in individual rooms. These interior units are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by having the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate hot and cool 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 are a great choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, normally in an attic or basement. This unit is often space-saving, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This allows you to address issues before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, ductwork, condenser fan blades, and indoor evaporator coil helps your HVAC system run efficiently and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the winter allows passive solar heating to warm your home. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent some heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the demand on your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for an easy 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

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

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual 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.

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. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new brand, energy efficiency, model, 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

Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written bids before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.