10 Best HVAC Companies in Wausau, WI

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs expert attention:

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

If you see any of these HVAC issues, you should have 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 Wausau

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn't have the right ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of internal units that control the temperature in individual rooms, and that are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by having the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work best in moderate climates and may not be as effective during Wausau's cold winters.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work best in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, usually located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keep an eye on your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This allows you to address issues before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the outside areas of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, condenser fan blades, and grills clean enables your HVAC system to function properly and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your home's HVAC system when you notice things starting to get dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When selecting an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.

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 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 allow them to be exempt from some local regulations. Whether your technician is an HVAC Qualifier or not, be sure that they meet any city or municipal requirements. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the installation company describe the new brand, estimated installation time, model, features, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written quotes before beginning HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.