10 Best HVAC
in Milwaukee, WI

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Odd noises when turning on
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Unusually high energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Milwaukee

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have internal units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the benefit of being able to utilize either electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and outside. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work more efficiently in more moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, typically in a basement or attic. This unit is often small, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, lets you resolve them before they get out of hand.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. During winter, leaving your blinds open allows your home to benefit from passive solar heating. In the summer, keeping your blinds shut helps to block out heat. Doing both decreases the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, ductwork, and grills regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it begins to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 30–90 days allows effective air circulation through your HVAC system. Also try to keep debris from accumulating on the external parts of your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is vital for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning 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 company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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.

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, you should make sure that they meet any local requirements. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know the details of any project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are done to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, features, brand, model, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the best protection for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC estimates in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.