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10 Best HVAC
in Foster City, CA

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Written By Bradford Cuthrell

Last Updated June 2024

On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With so much money invested in cooling and heating your Foster City home, you want to know that you're getting the best return on your investment.

Our list of the top HVAC companies in Foster City can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.

Top 10 Best HVAC Companies in Foster City

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Precision Air Solutions

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1090 Adams St Suite A-1, Benicia, CA 94510 (707) 741-1993 precisionhvacco.com

Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Free quotes

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

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

Baker's Heating and Air Conditioning

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751 Hoffman Ln, Brentwood, CA 94513 (925) 420-0400 bakerhvac.com

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Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Free quotes

Services Offered

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

Comfort Energy, Inc.

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1465 N Milpitas Blvd, Milpitas, CA 95035 (408) 560-4050 comfortenergy.com

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Prompt service delivery

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Boiler installation
Furnace installation
Maintenance
Ac installation
Duct cleaning
Furnace repair
Ductless
Ac repair
Boiler repair
Indoor air quality
Filtration

Contra Costa Heating & Air Conditioning

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14670 Wicks Blvd, San Leandro, CA 94577 (510) 343-9841 contracostaheating.com

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Reliable customer support

Free quotes

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Ventilation
Indoor air quality
Furnace repair
Ductless
Filtration
Maintenance
Ac repair
Zoning systems
Ac installation
Inspection
Furnace installation
Emergency services

Ariston Heating and Cooling

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111 Center Ave Suite M, Pacheco, CA 94553 (925) 421-0888 aristonheatingandcooling.com

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Services Offered

Filtration
Ductless
Maintenance
Smart home integration
Furnace repair
Ac installation
Ac repair
Furnace installation
Indoor air quality

Clean Air HVAC

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428 N Buchanan Cir #1, Pacheco, CA 94553 (925) 689-7017 cahvac.com

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Services Offered

Furnace repair
Furnace installation
Ac repair
Indoor air quality
Ac installation
Filtration
Ductless
Zoning systems
Boiler installation
Ventilation
Emergency services
Maintenance

AC Heating and Cooling Service Inc.

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945 Taraval St Suite 177, San Francisco, CA 94116 (415) 333-9903 acheatingandair.net

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Indoor air quality
Maintenance
Furnace repair
Duct cleaning
Inspection
Ac repair
Ventilation
Furnace installation
Filtration
Ac installation
Emergency services

AC Heating & Cooling Services Inc

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3500 Clayton Rd, Concord, CA 94519 (925) 521-1807 acheatingandair.net

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Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Maintenance
Duct cleaning
Indoor air quality
Ventilation
Ac installation
Furnace repair
Emergency services
Filtration
Furnace installation
Ac repair
Inspection

Carol Flynn Heating & Cooling

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200 Valley Dr Ste 50, Brisbane, CA 94005 (650) 697-1535 carolflynn.com

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Services Offered

Furnace installation
Indoor air quality
Maintenance
Ac repair
Ac installation
Ductless
Ventilation
Inspection
Duct cleaning

Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing

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2158 Rheem Dr, Pleasanton, CA 94588 (925) 291-0202 calljazz.com

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Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Free quotes

Services Offered

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

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you might need an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:

  • Refrigerant leaks
  • Unusually high energy bills
  • Strange noises when turning on
  • Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
  • Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
  • Cracking, corrosion, or rust
  • Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
  • An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Foster City

The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance will differ depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units 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 regulate temperature. These indoor units connect to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either gas or electricity for power.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cool air between your home and outside. They don't make their own heating and cooling, so they work best in more temperate climates.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a smart choice for smaller houses. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, typically located in a basement or attic. They're compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:

HVAC Unit TypeCost
Split$2,119-$5,402
Hybrid Split$4,294-$7,911
Heat Pump$3,325-$33,879
Packaged Heating and Air$278-$464

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

  • Change filters regularly. Air flows best through your HVAC system when you replace or clean the filters every 30–90 days. Also avoid letting debris pile up on the outside areas of your HVAC.
  • Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning ductwork, condenser fan blades, grills, and indoor evaporator coil helps your HVAC system run efficiently and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your heating and cooling system when it starts to look dirty.
  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help lower the work required from your HVAC system.
  • Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on 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 out of hand.
ServiceCost
Filter Replacement$70-$185
Condensor Cleaning$1,391-$4,173
Thermostat Repair$93-$232
Ductwork Cleaning$445-$1,113

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. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent heating and cooling year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

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

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "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 what kind 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). HVAC contractors are considered specialty contractors by the CSLB. All contractors must have four years of experience and be bonded, and contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You'll want to select a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new model, energy efficiency, features, brand, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Reputable HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you review all terms before signing a contract.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Foster City, CA

You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are needed. You should also schedule an inspection if you notice new issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.

Usually, it's a good idea to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely sees the most use.

You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at a time. You may also consider installing a smart thermostat.

Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.

For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will 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 Foster City, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.

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

There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:

  • Keep ductwork clean, and change or clean your air filters on a regular basis.
  • Schedule regular inspections to take care of problems as they arise.
  • Keep your attic well-ventilated and make sure all doors and windows are well-sealed.
  • Install a smart thermostat. If you don't want to or can't buy one, try keeping the temperature indoors as close to the outside temperature as you can.
  • When replacing part of your HVAC system, see if there are Energy Star-certified or similar environmentally friendly options.

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