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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. With so much money spent on heating and cooling your Streator home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to Streator's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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:
If your HVAC system is broken 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:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,924-$4,906 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,899-$7,184 | |
Heat Pump | $3,019-$30,766 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $253-$421 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,263-$3,790 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$211 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $404-$1,011 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. 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 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals 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 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 of the requirements. You can verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with positive reviews and testimonials about great customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new model, energy efficiency, features, brand, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the best protection at a reasonable price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically 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 your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You might also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. 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 sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: