Help us match you with local pros in your area
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Join more than 640 people who have gotten a free quote in the past week.
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. You want your Willowbrook home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on inefficient heating and cooling.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Willowbrook.
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make repairs or install a new unit. Look out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
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.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is 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 complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
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. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what kind of equipment they plan 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 the requirements. You can also verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You want to hire a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new features, brand, estimated installation time, model, and energy efficiency. Before signing paperwork, be sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest 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 twice yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's best to 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 probably sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to maintain the temperature of your home. 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 once. You could also consider a smart thermostat.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician discovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Usually, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: