10 Best HVAC Companies in Summit, 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 repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Cracking, rust, or corrosion
• Refrigerant leaks
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• 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 determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Summit

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have internal units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions in the same way as a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to utilize energy from either electric or gas sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and the outside. These systems don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work more effectively in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller houses. Packaged systems consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit that's typically located in an attic or basement. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, grills, and condenser fan blades regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Change filters regularly. Changing your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows efficient air circulation through your HVAC 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 fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers 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. HVAC contractors in all states 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.

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 verify 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 check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for a a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, model, and brand. Before work starts, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

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