10 Best HVAC Companies in Chesterfield, MO

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:

• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Chesterfield

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have indoor units in each room to regulate temperature; these indoor units all 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 electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate hot and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they work best in mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, usually in a basement or attic. This unit is often small, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different maintenance services. Fees for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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 ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• 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 demand on your HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your grills, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and ductwork clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. 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 in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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 by the state.

The state of Missouri doesn't have state-level HVAC contractor licensing requirements; however, most municipalities have local requirements. Be sure to check with your local government to understand requirements for licenses such as HVAC Contractor or HVAC Journeyman Contractor. You can also confirm that a company holds a valid business license. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and stories of satisfied customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new energy efficiency, brand, model, estimated installation time, and features. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

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