10 Best HVAC Companies in Lemay, MO

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or old likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

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

Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Lemay

HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for centralized climate control frequently have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of indoor units in each room to control temperature, which all 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 exchange warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work more effectively in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a practical choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, typically located in a basement or attic. They're small, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service 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

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

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and grills clean enables your HVAC system to function effectively and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association suggests cleaning your home's HVAC when you notice things starting to get dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outdoor sections of your system.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.

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 fix your system, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain 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

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate 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, contractors must pass an exam (the type of 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 by the state.

There are no state-level licensing requirements for HVAC technicians in Missouri; however, most municipalities have local requirements. Make sure that you 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 check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to verify that everything works. For replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, model, and brand. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

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