10 Best HVAC Companies in St. Louis, MO

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

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

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

If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in St. Louis

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 centralized climate control often have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of interior units in each room to regulate temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions comparably to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by providing the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer hot and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they perform best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single combined AC and heating, typically located in a basement or attic. They're small, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Price ranges for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

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.

• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, grills, indoor evaporator coil, and ductwork 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.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get out of hand.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the winter helps warm your home with passive solar heating. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent the same heat from getting inside. Doing both helps reduce the demand on your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth repair or installation. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

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 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 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.

Missouri doesn't have state-level licensing requirements for HVAC contractors; however, most municipalities have local requirements. It's always a good idea to check with your local government to understand requirements for licenses such as HVAC Contractor or HVAC Journeyman Contractor. You can also confirm that a company holds a valid business license. You should also look at reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive reviews and testimonials about great customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, model, brand, features, and estimated installation time. 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.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written estimate 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.