Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the 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 Bloomington home is functioning optimally.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in Bloomington to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you stay comfortable while reducing your bills.
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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:
An HVAC system that's not working properly or outdated likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Fees for some common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $2,058-$5,246 | |
| Hybrid Split | $4,170-$7,682 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,229-$32,899 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $270-$450 |
It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $68-$180 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,351-$4,053 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $90-$225 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $432-$1,081 |
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 for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
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 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the 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.
There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in Minnesota, although all contractors must file a $25,000 mechanical contractor bond with the Department of Labor and Industry. Many areas also have local licensing regulations, so always check with your city or municipal government to verify that your contractor meets all requirements. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of fantastic customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new brand, features, model, energy efficiency, 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.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the greatest protection within your budget.
Get a written quote before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing how much power your HVAC system uses to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as is comfortable and avoid making drastic changes in the temperature — only increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
It takes around one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Bloomington, you'll be better off going with a furnace on the higher end of or above this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Bloomington, a unit with a lower capacity may be sufficient. Generally, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might offer financing options through a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
