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10 Best HVAC Companies in Costa Mesa, CA

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Written By Bradford Cuthrell

Last Updated February 2024

On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. It's important that the cooling and heating systems in your Costa Mesa home are functioning properly, so you can avoid spending more than necessary.

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 best HVAC companies in Costa Mesa.

Top 10 Best HVAC Companies in Costa Mesa

Morris Air & Electric

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7573 Slater Ave suite t, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 (714) 519-6930 callmorrisnow.com

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Free quote

Reliable customer support

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Maintenance
Indoor air quality
Ductless
Filtration
Filters
Emergency services
Furnace installation
Ac repair
Inspection
Ac installation

Dependable Graham Air Conditioning, Inc.

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2952 Century Pl, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (714) 997-1800 dependablegraham.com

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Ac repair
Indoor air quality
Ducting
Ac installation
Ventilation
Emergency services
Ductless
Furnace repair
Duct cleaning
Maintenance

Real Time Bros Heating And Air Conditioning

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2650 Walnut Ave r, Tustin, CA 92780 (714) 583-6055 realtimebroshvac.com

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Free quote

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Ac installation
Ac repair
Indoor air quality
Radiant heating
Duct cleaning
Ductless
Maintenance

Greenstar Home Services / RighTime Home Services

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1821 McGaw Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 (714) 361-2917 ars.com

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Free quote

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Indoor air quality
Duct cleaning
Emergency services
Ac repair
Ac installation
Smart home integration
Maintenance
Inspection

Command Comfort

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18259 Mt Baldy Cir, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 (714) 952-3900 commandcomfort.com

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Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Ductless
Indoor air quality
Filtration
Maintenance
Ac installation
Ventilation
Ac repair

Trifecta Heating & Air Conditioning

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14382 Hoover St # A6, Westminster, CA 92683 (714) 465-5525 trifectahvac.com

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Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Indoor air quality
Emergency services
Ac installation
Maintenance
Ac repair

Positive Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning

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14271 Jeffrey Rd #206, Irvine, CA 92620 (949) 933-5036 positivecontractor.com

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Free quote

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Emergency services
Indoor air quality
Filtration
Ac installation
Maintenance
Inspection
Ac repair

Sears Heating and Air Conditioning

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100 Westminster Mall, Westminster, CA 92683 (657) 427-6224 searshomeservices.com

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Informative resources

Services Offered

Filtration
Ventilation
Ductless
Ac repair
Inspection
Maintenance
Indoor air quality
Ac installation

Irvine Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

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3 Petria, Irvine, CA 92606 (949) 910-0099 irvineacrepair.com

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Reliable customer support

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Maintenance
Ac installation
Ductless
Boiler repair
Furnace installation
Ac repair

South County Air Services & Furnace Repair

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4371 Rafael St, Irvine, CA 92604 (949) 933-3130 southcountyairservices.com

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Reliable customer support

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Furnace repair
Maintenance
Ac repair
Indoor air quality
Ac installation
Furnace installation
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

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:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make repairs or install a new unit. Keep an eye out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:

  • Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
  • Corrosion, rust, or cracking
  • Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
  • Odd noises when turning on
  • Refrigerant leaks
  • Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
  • Higher than normal energy bills
  • An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local provider can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Costa Mesa

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

  • Split or mini-split: Homes without ductwork for central heating and cooling often have split or mini-split HVAC systems. These systems consist of internal units in each room to control temperature, which all connect to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions very similarly to a standard split system. It has the benefit of having the capability to use either electricity or gas for power.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and outside. These systems don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work more efficiently in moderate climates and may not be as effective during Costa Mesa's hot summers.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller houses. They have a single cooling and heating unit, usually in an attic or basement. This unit is often space-saving, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:

HVAC Unit Type Cost
Split $2,035-$5,187
Hybrid Split $4,123-$7,596
Heat Pump $3,193-$32,531
Packaged Heating and Air $267-$445

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

  • Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and grills regularly helps keep your HVAC system working efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it begins to look dirty.
  • Change filters regularly. Air flows through your HVAC system most effectively when you replace or clean the filters every 1–3 months. Also try not to let debris pile up on the outside areas of your HVAC.
  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months allows passive solar heating to warm your home. Closing the blinds during the summer helps prevent the heat from getting inside. Doing both helps reduce the strain on your HVAC.
  • Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by reviewing your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.

Service Cost
Filter Replacement $67-$178
Condensor Cleaning $1,336-$4,007
Thermostat Repair $89-$223
Ductwork Cleaning $427-$1,069

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is vital for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

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 providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

When hiring an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "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 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). 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. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to provide details on the new estimated installation time, energy efficiency, brand, features, and model. Before work begins, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A thorough quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Costa Mesa, CA

Generally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.

The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are 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, 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 door or window 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 around one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician discovers.

For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Costa Mesa, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.

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 Costa Mesa, you'll likely want something on the higher end of this range. Generally, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.

Your HVAC company might provide financing options through a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's smart to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.

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