Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It's important to make sure the temperature control systems in your Wisconsin Rapids home are functioning properly, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Wisconsin Rapids 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
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
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:
If your HVAC system is having issues or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need multiple types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,896-$4,833 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,842-$7,078 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,975-$30,312 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $249-$415 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have methods to decrease the effect of wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$166 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,245-$3,734 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$207 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $398-$996 |
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.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When selecting an HVAC provider, 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 mandatory 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 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 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 or not your technician is an HVAC Qualifier, 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 Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing feedback and good customer testimonials.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new model, features, brand, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, make sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get written estimates before starting any HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's smart to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees 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 temperature changes — increase or decrease it a few degrees at a time. If possible, try switching to a smart thermostat.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Wisconsin Rapids, you'll probably want a furnace on the higher end of (or even above) this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Wisconsin Rapids, a unit on the lower end of this range may be sufficient. Usually, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company 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:
