10 Best HVAC Companies in Olivette, MO

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:

• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Unusually high energy bills
• Rust, cracking, or corrosion
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Strange noises when turning 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 diagnose problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Olivette

The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units 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 interior units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the advantage of having the capability to use either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cool air between your home and outside. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they function best in mild climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, typically located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for 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 the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outside areas of your system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your grills, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and condenser fan blades regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it starts to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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 at the state level.

Missouri doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors; however, most municipalities have local requirements. It's always a good idea 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 check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with great 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 explain 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 the contractor to provide details on the new model, energy efficiency, features, brand, and estimated installation time. 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

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A thorough quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.