HVAC can be a confusing subject for the average homeowner. If you aren’t sure what it is or when to call for service, read this guide.
What is HVAC?
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. The term applies to the comfort system used to heat or cool your home and provide indoor air quality. Whenever you need HVAC service, you call a certified heating and air conditioning company to identify, address, and resolve various problems, such as
- Busted heat exchangers
- Broken pilot lights
- Blown blower motor
- Refrigerant leaks
- Drain line issues
- Clogged air ducts
- Poor indoor air quality
- Replacing the air filter
- And much more
The HVAC company will send a technician to inspect the furnace, boiler, indoor and outdoor units, heat pump, or other appliances used to heat and cool the home. Then, they will perform various repair or maintenance services to fix the issue.
What Does HVAC Maintenance Include?
HVAC maintenance is the annual service for your heating and air system to ensure it functions properly. Preventative maintenance is typically a yearly service to monitor and upkeep the durability of your furnace or air conditioner. Some people also refer to HVAC maintenance plans as HVAC repair, but they involve different processes.
Repairs require further inspection of the various heating elements and air conditioning systems to address the issues. Typically, this is if the heating and cooling system breaks down entirely. Contrarily, HVAC tune-ups resolve minor problems.
Tips for Choosing a Reliable HVAC Company
There are four crucial tips to look for when choosing an HVAC company:
- Honesty and Credibility: You never want to face hidden labor costs or service fees when looking for a reliable HVAC company. Therefore, hire a company you hire that is upfront and honest about its process, pricing, and warranty policy.
- Willingness to Address Your Concerns: HVAC companies understand that not everyone has the industry knowledge they have. Still, when discussing solutions, ask them about cost-saving and energy-saving techniques. Living in Northern Illinois means facing seasonal changes, so ask about the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). This information will help you understand your air and heating system’s energy consumption and utility costs.
- Design Advice: You may not care what your HVAC system looks like, but a reliable company will help you choose the right make and model for your home. Whether they recommend a wall-mounted unit or a floor-to-ceiling model, the design aspect helps save you money while ensuring seamless functionality.
- Additional Features and Add-Ons: Additional features, like indoor air quality, matter for your safety and comfort. A reliable HVAC company discusses any other energy-saving services that optimize home comfort all year.
Schedule Service with Elite HVACs
If you need professional HVAC maintenance, repairs, installation, or replacement services, contact Elite HVACs. We’re available 24/7 for emergency service and to answer your questions or concerns. As the leading HVAC provider in Northern Chicagoland, our trained, experienced, NATE-certified technicians will fix any heating or cooling problems you have.