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10 Best HVAC
in Hercules, CA

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Written By Bradford Cuthrell

Last Updated June 2024

If you're like most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. Hercules' hot summers probably mean that your energy bill is higher during the warmer months. The average resident spends $120 a month cooling their home.

We've assembled this guide to Hercules' top HVAC companies to help you hire the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.

Top 10 Best HVAC Companies in Hercules

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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

Reliable customer support

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Free quotes

Services Offered

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

Ongaro & Sons

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2995 Dutton Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95407 (707) 579-3511 ongaroandsons.com

Clear pricing policy

Free quotes

Informative resources

Services Offered

Ac repair
Furnace repair
Duct cleaning
Inspection
Smart home integration
Maintenance
Furnace installation
Boiler repair
Indoor air quality
Boiler installation
Ductless
Ac installation

Baker's Heating and Air Conditioning

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

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Free quotes

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

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

Comfort Energy, Inc.

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

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Prompt service delivery

Free quotes

Informative resources

Services Offered

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

Contra Costa Heating & Air Conditioning

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

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Free quotes

Services Offered

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

Clean Air HVAC

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

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

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

Ariston Heating and Cooling

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

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Free quotes

Services Offered

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

Dale Heating Cooling & Sheetmetal, Inc.

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3015B Coffey Ln, Santa Rosa, CA 95403 (707) 526-5709 dalehcs.com

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Informative resources

Services Offered

Smart home integration
Maintenance
Furnace repair
Ventilation
Indoor air quality
Ac installation
Inspection
Ductless
Furnace installation
Filtration
Emergency services

AC Heating & Cooling Services Inc

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

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Free quotes

Informative resources

Services Offered

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

AC Heating and Cooling Service Inc.

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

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Free quotes

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Furnace repair
Filtration
Ac installation
Furnace installation
Inspection
Maintenance
Emergency services
Duct cleaning
Indoor air quality
Ac repair
Ventilation
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 HVAC system is broken or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

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

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, you should 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.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Hercules

What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

  • Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the right ductwork for central air or heating, you likely have a split HVAC system. Split or mini-split systems consist of internal units that control the temperature in individual rooms. These interior units are all connected to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by providing the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and outside. These systems don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work more effectively in milder climates and may not be as effective during Hercules' hot summers.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are often a good option for smaller houses. Packaged systems consist of a single combined heating and cooling unit that's typically located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends 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 TypeCost
Split$2,024-$5,159
Hybrid Split$4,100-$7,554
Heat Pump$3,175-$32,351
Packaged Heating and Air$266-$443

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

  • Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, condenser fan blades, and grills clean helps your system run and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
  • Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by routinely checking your thermostat and energy bills. This helps you address issues before they get too expensive.
  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Leaving your blinds open during the colder months allows passive solar heating to warm your home. Closing the blinds in warmer seasons helps prevent some heat from getting inside. Doing both helps decrease the strain on your HVAC system.
  • Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outdoor sections of your system.
ServiceCost
Filter Replacement$66-$177
Condensor Cleaning$1,328-$3,985
Thermostat Repair$89-$221
Ductwork Cleaning$425-$1,063

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a reliable 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

Get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. 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 what kind of equipment they intend 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 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. You should also check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. You want to hire a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

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. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new model, estimated installation time, brand, features, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

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 compare the fine print between contractors and choose the provider that offers the best protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written quotes before beginning HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Hercules, CA

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

Normally, it's best to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. 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 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 can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that 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 may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.

Normally, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.

There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:

  • Keep ductwork clean, and change or clean your air filters on a regular basis.
  • Have regular inspections to take care of issues as they come up.
  • 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 other environmentally friendly options.

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