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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Since cooling and heating represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Alhambra home is functioning optimally.
We've compiled this guide to Alhambra's top HVAC companies to help you choose the right person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC expenses vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,918-$4,889 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,886-$7,159 | |
Heat Pump | $3,009-$30,658 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $252-$420 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,259-$3,777 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$210 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $403-$1,007 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors need to 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." 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.
In California, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board (CSLB). HVAC contractors are considered specialty contractors by the CSLB. All contractors must have four years of experience and be bonded. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of your project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new estimated installation time, features, model, energy efficiency, and brand. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, bearing in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, you should schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any window or door leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your house, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll want a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Alhambra, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Alhambra, you'll likely look for a unit on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: