Expert Team
Expert Team | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Rockford
When sweltering summers or frigid winters hit Rockford, homeowners count on HEP’s expert team to restore perfect indoor comfort without delay. Our certified technicians bring decades of experience, meticulous craftsmanship, and the region’s most trusted brands to every HVAC unit replacement, ensuring you receive a system that’s precisely sized, energy-efficient, and built to last. From the first free estimate to the final thermostat test, we communicate clearly, respect your home, and back our work with iron-clad warranties.
Choose HEP and enjoy transparent pricing, flexible financing, and same-week installations that minimize downtime and maximize savings on monthly utility bills. Whether your current unit is rattling, short-cycling, or simply past its prime, we’ll guide you through smart upgrade options and handle the entire process with zero stress. Ready to breathe easier? Call our Rockford office today and discover why neighbors trust HEP to keep comfort constant all year long.
FAQs
How do I know it’s time to replace my HVAC unit instead of repairing it?
Most equipment lasts 12–15 years, and Rockford’s wide seasonal temperature swings put extra stress on aging parts. If your unit is past 10 years old, requires frequent repairs, struggles to keep set temperatures, or your utility bills have risen more than 20 % in the last two seasons, replacement is usually the cost-effective option. We perform a no-cost load calculation and cost-of-ownership analysis that compares the projected energy savings of a new high-efficiency system against the estimated cost of keeping the existing unit running. When repairs would exceed roughly 40 % of the price of a new system, we recommend replacement.
What size HVAC system does my Rockford home need, and how is it calculated?
Proper sizing is crucial in our climate because an oversized unit short-cycles and wastes energy, while an undersized unit cannot maintain comfort during January lows or July highs. Our technicians follow ACCA Manual J and Manual S guidelines, measuring square footage, insulation levels, number of windows, orientation, air-infiltration rate, and even occupancy patterns. We enter this data into load-calculation software to determine the exact BTU and airflow requirements, then match those numbers to equipment that meets or exceeds ENERGY STAR® efficiency ratings. The result is a system that maximizes comfort, reduces energy use, and qualifies for utility rebates.
Are there energy rebates or tax incentives for installing a new HVAC unit in Rockford, IL?
Yes. ComEd’s Residential HVAC Rebate program currently offers $300–$650 for qualifying high-efficiency air conditioners and heat pumps, and Nicor Gas provides up to $225 for high-efficiency furnaces. In addition, the federal Inflation Reduction Act extends a 30 % tax credit (up to $2,000) for heat pumps that meet the CEE Tier 2 specification and a $600 credit for ENERGY STAR furnaces or central AC units. We keep track of program changes, prepare all rebate paperwork, and supply the AHRI certificates you’ll need when filing your taxes.
How long does a typical HVAC replacement take from estimate to final inspection?
From the moment you approve the proposal, most residential change-outs in Rockford take one full working day. We schedule your installation within 3–5 business days of approval, depending on equipment availability. On installation day, our team arrives by 8 a.m., removes the old unit, installs the new indoor and outdoor components, connects ductwork and electrical, evacuates and charges the refrigerant, and performs a start-up test—usually wrapping up by late afternoon. City inspection (if required) is requested immediately and is often completed within 48 hours. You’ll have heat or AC the same day we install.
Will I need permits or inspections for HVAC replacement in Rockford, and do you handle them?
The City of Rockford Building Department requires a mechanical permit for any HVAC replacement that involves fuel-burning appliances, refrigerant piping, or electrical modifications. A final inspection is also mandatory to verify code compliance, proper combustion venting, and refrigerant management. Our office pulls all necessary permits on your behalf, schedules the inspection, and provides you with copies of the signed permit card once the job passes. Permit fees are included in our written estimate, so there are no surprise costs.
What warranty and maintenance coverage comes with a new HVAC system installed by your team?
Every system we install includes the manufacturer’s 10-year parts limited warranty (registration required within 60 days) and our own 2-year labor warranty at no additional charge. For extra peace of mind, you can upgrade to a Lifetime Heat Exchanger or Compressor warranty and a 10-year labor protection plan. We also provide a complimentary first-year maintenance visit—covering a precision tune-up, filter replacement, and safety inspection—so you meet warranty requirements and keep the unit operating at peak efficiency.