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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. 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 Iowa City home is functioning optimally.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Iowa City's top HVAC companies to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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 near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,843-$4,699 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,735-$6,881 | |
Heat Pump | $2,892-$29,469 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $242-$403 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$161 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,210-$3,630 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$202 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $387-$968 |
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 heating and air conditioning for your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what 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.
In Iowa, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board and registered with the Iowa Division of Labor. Contractors must be bonded and insured. An individual can be licensed as an apprentice, journeyperson, or master; apprentices and journeypersons must be supervised by a licensed master. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new model, features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and brand. Before signing paperwork, make 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.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be 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, when it typically 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 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 getting a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
Your HVAC company might offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you may 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 a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: