10 Best HVAC Companies in August, CA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:

• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Corrosion, cracking, or rust
• Unusually high energy bills
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in August

The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type 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 air or heating, 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 performs similarly to a standard split system, but is able to utilize either gas or electricity as energy sources.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps transfer hot and cold air between your home and the outside. These systems don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work better in milder climates and may not be as effective during August's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined air conditioner and heating unit, usually located in a basement or attic. This unit is typically compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is important, but can be costly. Fortunately, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the external parts of your system.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and condenser fan blades helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping an eye out for problems, for instance by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills, helps you resolve them before they get out of hand.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is crucial 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 companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they intend to work with). Section 608 certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.

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, and contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. You'll want to select a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, model, features, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before work begins, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

A reputable HVAC company will back its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the company that provides the greatest protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.