Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. If you live in Corcoran, a big part of your energy spending probably goes toward your summer air conditioning bill — the average resident spends approximately $200 monthly.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, letting you keep your home comfortable while still saving money. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Corcoran.
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
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Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
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 getting old, you might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for some common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,828-$4,659 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,703-$6,822 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,867-$29,217 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $240-$400 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$160 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,200-$3,599 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $80-$200 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $384-$960 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When hiring an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory 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.
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. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, features, and brand. 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 review warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a fair cost.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and accept all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any 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 of the year to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be 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 gets 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 comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be influenced by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician runs into.
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 Corcoran, 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 look for an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Corcoran, you'll likely need a unit on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
