Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
If you're like the average American, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. You don't want to spend more than you need to on temperature control in your East Hemet home, so it's critical that all systems are functioning properly.
Our list of East Hemet's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
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 having issues or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and recommend whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the better solution.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
The amount you spend on HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,925-$4,908 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,901-$7,187 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,021-$30,780 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $253-$421 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $63-$169 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,264-$3,792 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $84-$211 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $404-$1,011 |
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 maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "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.
In California, HVAC contractors 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. 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 stories of satisfied customers.
Make sure you know the details of your project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new energy efficiency, brand, model, estimated installation time, and features. Before signing a contract, 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 more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get written estimates before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during 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, which is when it normally gets 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. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you 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.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In East Hemet, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to 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 East Hemet, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Normally, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
