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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. Since cooling and heating represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to ensure that the HVAC system in your Antelope home is functioning properly.
Our guide to Antelope's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
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:
If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs expert attention:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,957-$4,990 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,966-$7,307 | |
Heat Pump | $3,071-$31,292 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $257-$428 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$171 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,285-$3,855 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $411-$1,028 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.
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, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all contractors who "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 on a state-by-state basis.
HVAC contractors in California 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. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about great customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new model, estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, and features. Before work begins, 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.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare the fine print between contractors and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A detailed 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 yearly. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's best to 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 likely sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained 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.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
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 Antelope, 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 to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Antelope, you'll likely want a unit on the higher end of this range. In general, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.