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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like most Americans, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. It's important to make sure the temperature control systems in your Brentwood home are functioning optimally, so you can avoid spending more than necessary.
We've compiled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Brentwood to help you hire the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
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:
If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,024-$5,159 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,100-$7,554 | |
Heat Pump | $3,175-$32,351 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $266-$443 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $66-$177 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,328-$3,985 | |
Thermostat Repair | $89-$221 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $425-$1,063 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what 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.
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 check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with great feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the exact parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new brand, model, estimated installation time, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A thorough quote covers costs for both materials and labor. Confirm that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it 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 can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Brentwood, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Brentwood, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may offer financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: