10 Best HVAC Companies in Woodside, IL

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:

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

Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Woodside

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you probably 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 very similarly to a standard split system. It has the benefit of being able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps work by moving hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't generate heat or air conditioning themselves, and are better for more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller homes. These systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit, typically located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be efficient, compact, and easy to maintain.

The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• 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.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows best through your HVAC system when you change out or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also try not to let debris pile up on the outside areas of your HVAC.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent the same heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the strain on your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, condenser fan blades, grills, and indoor evaporator coil regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.

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 at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "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, so make sure to check with your municipal government to confirm that your contractor meets all of the requirements. You can verify an Illinois business license on the Secretary of State's website. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of your project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are done to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new brand, features, energy efficiency, model, and estimated installation time. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and 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.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written estimates before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.