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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. In Lathrop, you're likely looking to reduce your energy expenses and save money.
We've compiled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Lathrop to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
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:
If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system needs professional attention:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require several different services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,864-$4,752 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,777-$6,959 | |
Heat Pump | $2,925-$29,800 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $245-$408 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $61-$163 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,224-$3,671 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$204 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $392-$979 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors 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 by the state.
HVAC contractors in California 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. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. You should also read reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive reviews and reports of great customer experiences.
It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should detail the particular parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new energy efficiency, model, estimated installation time, brand, and features. Before signing a contract, 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.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the provider that offers the best protection at a reasonable price.
Get written bids before starting HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have your system inspected and serviced if you notice any new issues, such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have an HVAC inspection are during the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, so it will be easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it sees 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 well-maintained and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes around one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician uncovers.
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 Lathrop, 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 an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Lathrop, you'll likely want something on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: