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, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. You want your Coronado home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on inefficient cooling and heating.
We've researched and assembled this guide to Coronado's top HVAC companies to help you choose the best person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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 HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Fees for some common services 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 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are 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 what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians 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 at the state level.
HVAC contractors in California must be licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board (CSLB). HVAC contractors are considered specialty contractors by the CSLB. All contractors must have four years of experience and be bonded, and contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about great customer experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the exact 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, have the contractor explain the new features, model, brand, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before signing paperwork, be sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get written bids before beginning HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. 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, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically 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 is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. 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 only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Coronado, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Coronado, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Normally, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
