Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. In Elgin, you're probably looking to reduce your energy usage and save money.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Elgin can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Services Offered
Free quotes
Services Offered
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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 HVAC system is broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,930-$4,921 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,911-$7,206 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,029-$30,860 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $253-$422 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $63-$169 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,267-$3,801 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $84-$211 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $405-$1,014 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is vital for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe 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.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the proper qualifications and expertise. 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 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 by the state.
In Texas, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Contractors need to have at least four years of experience within the past six years and must show proof of insurance. An individual can also be a registered technician, which has no experience requirements, or a certified technician, which requires two years of experience. Both registered and certified technicians must be supervised by a licensed contractor. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Make sure you know the details of any project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new model, brand, energy efficiency, features, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, 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.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection for a fair price.
Get written bids before beginning HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. 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 are less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes around one to three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Elgin, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Elgin, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
