10 Best HVAC Companies in St. Clair, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make fixes or install a new unit. Watch out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:

• Higher than normal energy bills
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Refrigerant leaks
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Strange noises when turning on
• 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 identify problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in St. Clair

HVAC installation or maintenance prices vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types 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 operates similar to a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to draw power from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cool air between your home and outside. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they perform best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, typically in an attic or basement. This unit is often compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the services 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

Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and ductwork helps your HVAC system run efficiently and reduces your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your heating and cooling system when it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leave your blinds open so your home benefits from passive solar heat. In summer, keep blinds shut to block out heat. Doing both reduces the amount of work your HVAC system is required to do.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows best through your HVAC system when you change out or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also try not to let debris pile up on the external sections of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is key for a smooth 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 HVAC system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate 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 type of 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.

Illinois doesn't have state-level contractor licensing requirements. However, there may be local regulations. Be 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 reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a company with positive reviews and testimonials about fantastic customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, brand, and model. Before work begins, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.