10 Best HVAC Companies in St. Louis, MO

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:

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

Book an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and determine whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in St. Louis

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 manage temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but is able to utilize either gas or electricity as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your home and the outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work more effectively in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, usually located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically small, cost-effective, and straightforward to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning ductwork, condenser fan blades, grills, and indoor evaporator coil helps your HVAC system run efficiently and reduces your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, allows you to resolve them before they get out of hand.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the external parts of your system.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Opening your blinds in winter allows passive solar heat into your house. Closing your blinds in summer blocks some heat from getting indoors. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your HVAC system.

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 give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Describe 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 highly trained 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 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 check that a company holds a valid business license. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a provider with great reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, brand, and model. 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 services. Broader coverage is 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

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