10 Best HVAC Companies in Thornton, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's not working properly or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

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

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Thornton

HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. 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 manage 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 advantage of being able to draw power from either gas or electric sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't generate their own heat or AC, so they perform best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller homes. They have a single heating and cooling unit, usually in an attic or basement. This unit is often space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outside areas of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning condenser fan blades, grills, indoor evaporator coil, and ductwork helps your HVAC system run efficiently and reduces the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of 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 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 confirm that your contractor meets all of the requirements. You can also verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new brand, estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, and features. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.