Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. Since cooling and heating represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to ensure that the HVAC system in your Duarte home is functioning properly.
Our list of the top HVAC companies in Duarte can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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 old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,918-$4,889 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,886-$7,159 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,009-$30,658 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $252-$420 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,259-$3,777 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $84-$210 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $403-$1,007 |
Knowing the indicators of a reliable HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC contractors for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When selecting an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states 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." 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 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. You should also check reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.
Always make sure you understand the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to provide details on the new features, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, 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.
Trustworthy HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it probably sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape 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 your 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 will be determined 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, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Duarte, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Duarte, you'll likely look for a unit on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
