10 Best HVAC Companies in Ladue, 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 may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:

• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Unusually high energy bills
• Strange noises when turning on
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Ladue

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions very similarly to a standard split system. It has the advantage of being able to utilize either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move warm and cool air between your home and the outside. These systems don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work more efficiently in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are more popular in smaller houses. These systems consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit that's usually located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leave your blinds open so your home benefits from passive solar heat. In summer, keep blinds shut to block out heat. Doing both decreases the amount of work your HVAC system must perform.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and grills clean helps your system run 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 problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing 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 vital 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

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate 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 what 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 on a state-by-state basis.

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

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are done to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, brand, estimated installation time, and model. Before signing a contract, 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

Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the most comprehensive protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.