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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. With so much money invested in heating and cooling your Wheaton home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
We've assembled this guide to Wheaton's top HVAC companies to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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:
If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost varies depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,006-$5,115 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,066-$7,490 | |
Heat Pump | $3,148-$32,077 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $263-$439 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $66-$176 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,317-$3,951 | |
Thermostat Repair | $88-$220 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $421-$1,054 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.
Illinois doesn't have state-level contractor licensing requirements. However, there may be local regulations. Be sure to check with your municipal government to verify that your contractor meets all of 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 Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
It’s important to understand what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the exact 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 getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, model, energy efficiency, brand, and estimated installation time. Before starting the project, 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 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 most protection within your budget.
Get written quotes before starting any HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it gets the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You might also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
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).
Usually, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you might consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: