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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Since cooling and heating represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Livermore home is functioning properly.
Our list of Livermore's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
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 HVAC system is having issues or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, we recommend having a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,049-$5,224 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,152-$7,650 | |
Heat Pump | $3,215-$32,762 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $269-$448 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $67-$179 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,345-$4,036 | |
Thermostat Repair | $90-$224 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $430-$1,076 |
Knowing the right things to look for in an 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 coolig and heating year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by 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 plan 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, 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). Pick a company with glowing reviews and reports of good customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to provide details on the new brand, model, features, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection for a fair price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, so it will be 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. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Livermore, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective than window units for cooling.
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 Livermore, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain your own loan. It's smart to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: