Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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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. In Lake Geneva, a large percent of your energy bill probably goes toward running your heat during the winter. The average resident spends $180 on heating every month.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Lake Geneva can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,847-$4,709 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,743-$6,896 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,898-$29,534 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $243-$404 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $61-$162 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,213-$3,638 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $81-$202 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $388-$970 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for a successful installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals 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.
There are no mandatory state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors in Wisconsin – contractors simply need to register with the Department of Safety and Professional Services. An individual can optionally become certified as an HVAC Qualifier, which requires four combined years of education and experience and may exempt them from some local regulations. Whether your technician is an HVAC Qualifier or not, make sure that they meet any city or municipal requirements. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You want to hire a company with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask your contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, 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.
A reputable HVAC company will back its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A thorough quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are during 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, which is when it normally gets the most use.
You can save energy during the winter by reducing the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do 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.
It takes around one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Lake Geneva, 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 generally 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). In Lake Geneva, you might need a higher-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company might offer financing options through a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
