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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With the higher cost of living in Lake Stickney, you're probably eager to save money on your energy bills.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Lake Stickney can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
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 suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,998-$5,093 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,048-$7,458 | |
Heat Pump | $3,135-$31,940 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $262-$437 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be pricey. Fortunately, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $66-$175 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,312-$3,935 | |
Thermostat Repair | $87-$219 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $420-$1,049 |
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 ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend 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.
HVAC contractors are required to be licensed as specialty contractors in the state of Washington. Individuals must possess a speciality HVAC license and may also require plumbing or electrical licensure depending on the nature of the job. Licensing is handled by the State Department of Labor and Industries, which mandates that contractors must be both bonded and insured. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Choose a company with positive reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, brand, and model. Before signing paperwork, be sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the best protection within your budget.
Get written estimates before starting HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. Following an inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, it's best to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it likely 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 avoid making drastic temperature changes — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you're able to, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Lake Stickney, you'll probably be fine with a unit that's on the lower end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
Usually, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: