Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. You want your Auburn home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to waste your money on inefficient cooling and heating.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Auburn can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs attention from a professional who can make fixes or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your HVAC needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, you should 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 cost of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,942-$4,951 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,935-$7,250 | |
Heat Pump | $3,047-$31,047 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $255-$425 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,275-$3,825 | |
Thermostat Repair | $85-$212 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $408-$1,020 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor'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 with the necessary training and licenses. 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 what kind 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.
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 must have four years of experience and be bonded, and contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the specific parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, estimated installation time, model, energy efficiency, and brand. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are needed. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Generally, it's smart to schedule inspections 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 throughout the year by reducing the amount of work it takes for your HVAC system to maintain the temperature of your home. During all seasons, keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as possible, and try to adjust it only a few degrees at once. You could also consider purchasing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you might consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: