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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. You want to be comfortable in your Oak Park home, but you also don't want to waste your money on ineffective heating and cooling.
We've assembled this guide to Oak Park's top HVAC companies to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
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:
If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,959-$4,993 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,969-$7,312 | |
Heat Pump | $3,073-$31,313 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $257-$429 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$171 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,286-$3,857 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $411-$1,029 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the type of 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 Michigan, HVAC contractors must be licensed as Mechanical Contractors via the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Contractors need to have at least three years of experience and must pass an exam. You can verify a license on LARA's website. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to verify proper operation. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, and model. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the most comprehensive protection for a fair price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. After 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, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, you should schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely 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 may also consider a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. 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 depend on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
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're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: