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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. Since such a significant portion of your utility bill goes toward heating and cooling, you'll want to ensure that the HVAC system in your Eau Claire home is functioning optimally.
Our guide to Eau Claire's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
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:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make fixes or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,861-$4,745 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,772-$6,949 | |
Heat Pump | $2,920-$29,757 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $244-$407 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Luckily, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$163 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,222-$3,666 | |
Thermostat Repair | $81-$204 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $391-$978 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states 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 the 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.
Wisconsin doesn't have any mandatory state-level requirements for HVAC contractors; all contractors simply need to register with the Department of Safety and Professional Services. An individual has the option to become certified as an HVAC Qualifier, which requires four years of education, experience, or a combination of the two, and may allow them to be exempt from some local regulations. Whether or not your technician is an HVAC Qualifier, you should be sure that they meet any local requirements. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of fantastic customer experiences.
Always make sure you know the details of any project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system model, brand, estimated installation time, energy efficiency, and features. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, like unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically 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 temperature changes — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If you can, try switching to a smart thermostat.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to 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 vary depending on factors 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 Eau Claire, you'll probably be fine with a unit on the lower end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective for cooling than window units.
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). In Eau Claire, you might need a higher-capacity furnace.
Usually, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you could consider taking out your own loan. 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 several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: