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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
If you're like the average American, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. Energy costs in Fullerton can be steeper than in some other places, which means you'd probably like to save money on your bill.
We've compiled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Fullerton to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
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 home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and let you know whether whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for some common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,035-$5,187 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,123-$7,596 | |
Heat Pump | $3,193-$32,531 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $267-$445 |
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 system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $67-$178 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,336-$4,007 | |
Thermostat Repair | $89-$223 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $427-$1,069 |
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 keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for all technicians who "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 at the state level.
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 Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a company with glowing reviews and reports of fantastic customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of your project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, brand, and features. Before work starts, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection for a fair price.
Get written estimates before beginning HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected 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 typically 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 well-maintained and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Fullerton, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. For homes over 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 Fullerton, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Usually, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company 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: