10 Best HVAC Companies in East San Gabriel, CA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is having issues or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:

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

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in East San Gabriel

Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn't have the right ductwork for central heating or air, you likely have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of interior units that regulate the temperature in individual rooms. These interior units are all connected to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but is able to utilize either electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps circulate hot and cool air between your home and the outdoors. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they work best in temperate climates and may not be as effective during East San Gabriel's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work best in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, commonly located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically compact, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, grills, and ductwork helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Changing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outside areas of your system.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you find and solve issues before they get too expensive.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Picking an established business with certified technicians gives you assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary training and licenses. HVAC contractors in all states 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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled by the state.

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. Reviewing feedback on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask your contractor to provide details on the new brand, estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, and model. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the best protection at a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

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