Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. It's important that the temperature control systems in your Irvine home are working properly, so you can avoid spending more than you need to.
Our list of Irvine's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
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 not working properly or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Price ranges for typical jobs 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 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| 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 maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of 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 by the state.
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 on sites such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.
Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, and brand. Before signing a contract, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair work and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection at a reasonable price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice any new issues, such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it typically gets the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system 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 in good shape 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 one to three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Irvine, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Irvine, you'll likely need a unit on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to your HVAC company and a financial advisor to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
