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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. With the higher cost of living in Emeryville, you're probably eager to find ways to save on your energy bills.
Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Emeryville to find the best choice for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and decide whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different maintenance services. Costs for common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,094-$5,338 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,243-$7,817 | |
Heat Pump | $3,285-$33,475 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $275-$458 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $69-$183 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,375-$4,124 | |
Thermostat Repair | $92-$229 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $440-$1,100 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Get quotes from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on the kind of equipment they plan to work with). Section 608 certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.
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. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
It’s important to know what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the exact 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 the provider to explain the new features, model, estimated installation time, brand, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly. After the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, you should schedule inspections 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 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 try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Emeryville, 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 between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Emeryville, you'll likely want a unit on the higher end of this range. In general, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing 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.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: