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10 Best HVAC Companies in Alameda, CA

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Written By Bradford Cuthrell

Last Updated February 2024

If you're like most Americans, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. You don't want to spend more than necessary on cooling and heating your Alameda home, so it's important to make sure all systems are working properly.

A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Alameda.

Top 10 Best HVAC Companies in Alameda

Contra Costa Heating & Air Conditioning

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14670 Wicks Blvd, San Leandro, CA 94577 (510) 343-9841 contracostaheating.com

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Services Offered

Zoning systems
Ac installation
Maintenance
Ventilation
Furnace repair
Filtration
Furnace installation
Inspection
Ductless
Indoor air quality
Ac repair

All About Air

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2415 Radley Ct Suite 8, Hayward, CA 94545 (510) 538-2247 allaboutaironline.com

Reliable customer support

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Ventilation
Inspection
Maintenance
Ac installation
Indoor air quality
Ductless
Furnace installation
Ac repair

Element Home Solutions

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6114 La Salle Ave #310, Oakland, CA 94611 (888) 980-4822 element-hvac.com

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Free quote

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Maintenance
Indoor air quality
Ac repair
Ductless
Furnace repair
Filtration
Smart home integration
Duct cleaning
Ac installation

Comfy Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.

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1946 Republic Ave, San Leandro, CA 94577 (510) 317-7375 comfyhvac.com

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Free quote

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Ac installation
Indoor air quality
Maintenance
Ductless
Duct cleaning
Ac repair
Filtration
Ventilation

Carol Flynn Heating & Cooling

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200 Valley Dr Ste 50, Brisbane, CA 94005 (650) 697-1535 carolflynn.com

Free quote

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Inspection
Ventilation
Furnace installation
Indoor air quality
Ductless
Duct cleaning
Maintenance
Ac repair

Air Conditioning & Heating Solutions

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2001 Addison St suite 300 b, Berkeley, CA 94704 (341) 210-1813 airconditioningheatingsolutions.com

Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Inspection
Ventilation
Filtration
Ductless
Indoor air quality
Furnace installation
Furnace repair
Ac installation
Ac repair
Maintenance

Attic Pros

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718 Douglas Ave, Oakland, CA 94603 (800) 543-0382 atticprosinc.com

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Clear pricing policy

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Free quote

Services Offered

Install
Heating
Inspection
Ducting
Air conditioning
Repair

Bay Area Climate Control

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1930 W Winton Ave # 4, Hayward, CA 94545 (510) 477-6793 bayareaclimatecontrol.com

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Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Ac installation
Furnace installation
Furnace repair
Ductless
Maintenance

Air Flow Pros Heating & Air Conditioning

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2595 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110 (415) 400-5140 afpheating.com

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Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Free quote

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Ventilation
Indoor air quality
Maintenance
Ductless
Emergency services
Furnace repair
Filtration

Next HVAC and Appliance repair

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1 Henry Adams St unit S324, San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 655-0218 nexthvacrepair.com

Free quote

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Ac repair
Ductless
Furnace repair
Ventilation
Ac installation
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

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:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

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

If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Alameda

The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will differ depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:

  • Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you likely have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions in the same way as a normal split system, but has the benefit of being able to utilize energy from either electric or gas sources.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps work by circulating hot and cold air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't produce heat or air conditioning themselves, and are better for more moderate climates. They may not be as effective during Alameda's hot summers.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller houses. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in a basement or attic. They're compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different maintenance services. Costs for common services are as follows:

HVAC Unit Type Cost
Split $2,094-$5,338
Hybrid Split $4,243-$7,817
Heat Pump $3,285-$33,475
Packaged Heating and Air $275-$458

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

  • Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, grills, ductwork, and condenser fan blades clean helps your system function optimally and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
  • Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. We also recommend regularly clearing dirt and debris away from the outside areas of your system.
  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help lower the work required from your home’s HVAC system.
  • Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills routinely — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.

Service Cost
Filter Replacement $69-$183
Condensor Cleaning $1,375-$4,124
Thermostat Repair $92-$229
Ductwork Cleaning $440-$1,100

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is key for an easy installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare companies' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

When looking for an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "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 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.

In California, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board (CSLB). The CSLB considers HVAC contractors to be specialty contractors. All contractors are required to have four years of experience and to be bonded. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system afterward to verify proper operation. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system estimated installation time, features, brand, energy efficiency, and model. Before signing a contract, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Alameda, CA

You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.

Normally, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely sees the most use.

You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.

For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Alameda, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.

For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Alameda, you'll likely need a unit on the higher end of this range. 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 have financing options through a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor 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:

  • Make sure your air ducts remain clean, and change or clean your air filters regularly.
  • Have regular inspections to take care of problems as they come up.
  • Keep your attic well-ventilated and make sure all doors and windows are well-sealed.
  • Install a smart thermostat. If you aren't able to purchase one, try keeping the temperature indoors as close to the outside temperature as you can.
  • When replacing part of your HVAC system, see if there are Energy Star-certified or other environmentally friendly options.

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