10 Best HVAC Companies in Bloomington, IN

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

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

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

If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Bloomington

The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either electricity or gas as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your house and the outdoors. They don't generate their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, usually located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically compact, cost-effective, and straightforward to maintain.

The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, grills, ductwork, and indoor evaporator coil clean helps your system run and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Air flows through your HVAC system most effectively when you change out or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also try not to let debris pile up on the outdoor parts of your HVAC.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leave your blinds open so your home benefits from passive solar heat. In summer, keep blinds shut to block out heat. Doing both lowers the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keep an eye on your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This helps you address problems before they get out of hand.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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 air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper 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, 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 at the state level.

Indiana doesn't have any state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors; however, most cities and municipalities have their own requirements. Make sure that you check with your local government and verify the business license of any company you hire. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know the details of your project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are finished to verify that it’s working properly. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, features, and brand. Before work begins, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy 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 provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written proposal 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.