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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You want to be comfortable in your Sterling home, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on ineffective heating and cooling.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Sterling to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
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Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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 professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Look out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,831-$4,667 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,709-$6,834 | |
Heat Pump | $2,872-$29,267 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $240-$401 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $60-$160 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,202-$3,605 | |
Thermostat Repair | $80-$200 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $385-$961 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an 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 coolig and heating year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states 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 what 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 at the state level.
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 also verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. Also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after finishing the work to ensure proper operation. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, 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.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection for the fairest price.
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.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, you should schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees 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 you can, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You could also consider a smart thermostat.
It takes around one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: