10 Best HVAC Companies in Festus, MO

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make repairs or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:

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

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

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Festus

The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will differ depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you probably 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 functions much like a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move warm and cool air between your house and outside. They don't create their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, usually in an attic or basement. This unit is often compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, 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.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning ductwork, condenser fan blades, grills, and indoor evaporator coil helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your heating and cooling system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the winter 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 reduce the demand on your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Switching out or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outside areas of your system.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is key for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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 by the state.

There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in Missouri; however, most municipalities have local requirements. It's in your best interest 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 the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to understand what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the exact parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, ask your contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, features, and brand. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the most protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written bids before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.