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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. Since such a significant portion of your utility bill goes toward heating and cooling, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Vernon home is functioning properly.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in Vernon to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
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 old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the type of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,973-$5,030 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,998-$7,366 | |
Heat Pump | $3,096-$31,544 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $259-$432 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$173 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,295-$3,886 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$216 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $414-$1,036 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. 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, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of 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.
There are no state-level licensing requirements for contractors in Illinois. 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 verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system afterward to verify proper operation. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, and features. Before signing a contract, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services 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 company that provides the greatest protection within your budget.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected 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 likely 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 possible, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
Your HVAC company might have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: