Emergency Repair Services for Furnaces, Boilers, and Heat Pumps

At Trust Heat Cool, with Ray Hughes and Julie Hughes as our lead technicians, we prioritize your peace of mind. Our experienced technicians perform a thorough diagnostic and a comprehensive safety inspection of your unit before any repair is recommended or a penny more than the initial diagnostic fee is spent. We use advanced tools, such as endoscope probes, combined with years of knowledge to ensure you're never led down a "rabbit hole" and that you fully understand the necessary steps to restore your system safely and efficiently.

Look out for unusual noises (grinding, squealing), a sudden increase in energy bills, uneven heating, frequent cycling on and off, or if your furnace isn't producing enough heat. If you notice any of these, it's time to call us.

This is a surefire sign that your heating system has an underlying issue. On warmer days, your unit might be able to "limp along" and provide some heat, but when temperatures drop, the system can't meet the increased demand. This often indicates issues like short cycling (for furnaces or boilers), or for heat pumps, it could point to low refrigerant levels, a sticking reversing valve, or other critical problems. Don't wait for a complete breakdown; this is a clear indicator that professional attention is needed.

Most heating system repairs, whether it's for a furnace, heat pump, or boiler, often come in under $1,000. We pride ourselves on being able to diagnose and fix many common issues for a total cost within that range here at Trust Heat & Cool. However, it's important to understand that some major components, like new variable-speed blower motors or advanced control boards, can have parts alone that reach or even exceed $1,000. Overall, you can expect the cost of heating repairs in Central Illinois to typically fall between a few hundred dollars for minor fixes up to around $2,000 or more for complex part replacements. We'll always give you a clear estimate before starting any work.

It's a common misconception that once a furnace, heat pump, or boiler is installed, it maintains its initial efficiency. The truth is, all HVAC equipment naturally becomes less efficient over time. For example, a 98% efficient furnace, after just five years, might be operating closer to 88% efficiency. This decline happens due to normal wear and tear on components, accumulation of dirt and dust, and general aging of the system. This gradual loss of efficiency means your unit has to work harder to heat your home, which can lead to higher energy bills and increased strain on the system. That's why regular maintenance is so important – it helps slow down this efficiency loss and keeps your system running optimally for longer.

The temperature you set your thermostat to plays a significant role in how long your heating system lasts and how much you pay for energy. We've seen firsthand how maintaining a more moderate indoor temperature, like 66 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, can lead to remarkably low power bills and extend the life of your equipment, especially when filters are changed regularly. Your system doesn't have to work as hard, reducing wear and tear.

On the flip side, if you prefer your home much warmer, say 73 degrees or higher, your furnace, heat pump, or boiler will run more frequently and for longer periods. This constant demand puts considerable stress on the components, often leading to more frequent repairs and a shorter overall lifespan for the equipment. Setting your thermostat thoughtfully is one of the easiest ways to save money and ensure your heating system serves you well.

Is there anything special I should know about heat pumps?

Yes, absolutely! Heat pumps are incredibly efficient, versatile systems, but there are a few unique characteristics that are good to understand to get the most out of your unit and ensure its longevity:

1. Ideal Conditions for Charging and Maintenance: For accurate charging and performance checks, heat pumps operate best when the outdoor temperature is between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with an indoor return air temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. This is why fall is an ideal time for your heat pump's annual maintenance and inspection, even if it's a dual-fuel system. It's much more challenging to accurately assess and charge a heat pump on a very cold day, especially as your system ages. Proactive fall maintenance ensures your heat pump is ready for the colder months ahead.

2. Understanding "Cold Heat": Many homeowners accustomed to the blast of heat from a gas-fired furnace might describe a heat pump's warmth as "cold heat." This is a common observation, and it's because heat pumps deliver warmth at a lower, more consistent temperature than furnaces. They also don't dry out the air as much, which can be a comfort benefit for some. The feeling of the air coming from your vents might be noticeably different, but rest assured, your heat pump is still effectively heating your home.

3. Temperature Management in Cold Weather: During those exceptionally cold Central Illinois winter nights (especially in areas like Champaign, Ford, Piatt, or Coles County), it's important to adjust your approach to thermostat settings with a heat pump. Most homes with a heat pump will experience a gradual temperature drop, perhaps around half a degree per hour, during severe overnight freezes. Unlike furnaces or boilers, you should avoid "playing games" with drastic temperature setbacks on your heat pump. Instead, we recommend looking at the upcoming weather forecast. If a deep cold snap is predicted, consider setting your thermostat a couple of degrees higher than your usual comfort setting before the extreme cold hits. This allows your heat pump to maintain a comfortable temperature more efficiently without struggling to recover from a significant drop.

Understanding these nuances will help you appreciate the unique benefits of your heat pump and ensure it runs efficiently and reliably for years to come.