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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. With so much money invested in heating and cooling your Cicero home, you want to know that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Read our list of the top HVAC companies in Cicero to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on hvac companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs expert attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,880-$4,792 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,809-$7,017 | |
Heat Pump | $2,949-$30,053 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$411 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be pricey. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,234-$3,702 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $395-$987 |
Finding the right 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.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific 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 at the state level.
The state of New York doesn't have state-level HVAC licensing. However, many cities and municipalities have their own requirements, so be sure to check with your local government. For example, in some cases, a technician may need an Oil Burning Equipment Installer or High Pressure Boiler Operating Engineer license from the NYC Department of Buildings, or a Certificate of Qualification for Refrigerating System Operating Engineer from the Fire Department of New York. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after finishing the work to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to provide details on the new brand, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, and features. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that provides the best protection for a fair price.
Get written bids before beginning HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally sees the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing how much power your HVAC system uses to heat your home. Keep your thermostat as low as is comfortable and don't make drastic changes in the temperature — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
Normally, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: