10 Best HVAC Companies in Janesville, WI

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:

• Higher than normal energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Schedule 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.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Janesville

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for central heating and cooling frequently have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of interior units in each room to regulate temperature, which all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system performs similarly to a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more mild climates and may not be as effective during Janesville's cold winters.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, normally in a basement or attic. This unit is often small, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.

• Change filters regularly. Switching out your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows effective air circulation through your HVAC system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the external parts of your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This allows you to address issues before they get out of hand.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent some heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the demand on your HVAC system.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your ductwork, grills, condenser fan blades, and indoor evaporator coil regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it begins to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from at least three HVAC contractors. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.

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 experience, education, or a combination of the two, and may exempt them from some local regulations. Whether or not your technician is an HVAC Qualifier, you should make sure that they meet any local requirements. Reviewing feedback on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know the details of any project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, brand, and features. Before signing paperwork, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the greatest protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.