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10 Best HVAC Companies in Los Altos, CA

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Written By Bradford Cuthrell

Last Updated February 2024

On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In Los Altos, you're probably looking to reduce this energy expense and save money.

Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Los Altos can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.

Top 10 Best HVAC Companies in Los Altos

Menlo Park HVAC

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101 Jefferson Dr 1st floor, Menlo Park, CA 94025 (650) 618-9838 menloparkhvac.com

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Services Offered

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

Nur HVAC

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1078 Wentworth St, Mountain View, CA 94043 (408) 471-6171 nurhvac.com

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Reliable customer support

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Services Offered

Furnace repair
Ductless
Ac repair
Ac installation
Inspection
Ventilation
Furnace installation

Finest Heating & Air

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2100 Geng Rd Suite 210, Palo Alto, CA 94303 (650) 223-2028 finestheatingnair.com

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Informative resources

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Maintenance
Ac repair
Ductless
Ac installation
Indoor air quality
Furnace installation
Furnace repair

Attic Star

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800 W El Camino Real, Mountain View, CA 94040 (800) 444-8180 atticstar.com

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Ducting
Maintenance
Repair
Inspection
Install

One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning

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19925 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino, CA 95014 (408) 381-4545 onehourheatandair.com

Prompt service delivery

Free quote

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Maintenance
Thermostat repair
Duct cleaning
Ac repair
Geothermal heating
Ac installation

FairPrice Heating & Cooling Santa Clara

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1336 Fremont St, Santa Clara, CA 95050 (408) 944-5345 fairpriceheatingandcooling.com

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Services Offered

Maintenance
Ac installation
Ventilation
Duct cleaning
Furnace repair
Ac repair
Inspection

Calvey Heating and Air

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1902 Lafayette St STE E, Santa Clara, CA 95050 (650) 265-2202 calveyheatingandair.com

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Reliable customer support

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Services Offered

Inspection
Ductless
Duct cleaning

Aquinas HVAC Inc.

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2273 De La Cruz Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050 (408) 413-2053 aquinashvac.com

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Filters
Ac repair
Maintenance
Inspection
Ductless
Ac installation

Copeland Mechanical Inc.

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8040 Wells Ave Suite D, Newark, CA 94560 (510) 795-7216 copelandmechanical.com

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Ac installation
Ac repair
Indoor air quality
Maintenance
Emergency services
Inspection

Balcom Heating & Air

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112 Florence St #4, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 (408) 307-3413 balcomair.com

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Furnace repair
Maintenance
Ac repair
Ac installation
Indoor air quality
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

A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:

  • Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
  • Refrigerant leaks
  • Strange noises when turning on
  • Higher than normal energy bills
  • Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
  • Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
  • Rust, corrosion, or cracking
  • An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect 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 Los Altos

The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the type of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:

  • Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork can't accommodate a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have interior units in each room to control temperature. These indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions in the same way as a normal split system, but has the advantage of being able to utilize energy from either gas or electric sources.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps work by moving warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't generate heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more suited to more moderate climates. They may not be as effective during Los Altos' hot summers.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are good for smaller houses. Packaged systems consist of a single heating and cooling unit that's usually located in a basement or attic. This unit tends to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different maintenance services. Fees for common services 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

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are actions you can take to minimize wear and tear over time on your system.

  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.
  • Change filters regularly. Switching out 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 external parts of your system.
  • Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for problems — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you catch issues before they get too expensive.
  • Keep your system clean. Keeping your ductwork, grills, condenser fan blades, and indoor evaporator coil clean enables your HVAC system to function effectively and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your home's HVAC system when you notice it starting to get dirty.

Service Cost
Filter Replacement $67-$179
Condensor Cleaning $1,345-$4,036
Thermostat Repair $90-$224
Ductwork Cleaning $430-$1,076

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring an experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the providers' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must 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." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type 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 are required to have four years of experience and to be bonded, and contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Choose a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of any project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are completed to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new model, brand, estimated installation time, features, and energy efficiency. Before signing a contract, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection within your budget.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Confirm that you understand all terms before signing the contract.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Los Altos, CA

You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice a year. At the time of the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.

Generally, it's best to schedule inspections 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 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. 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 in good shape and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that 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 might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new issues your technician runs into.

For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Los Altos, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will generally be more effective than window units for cooling.

For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Los Altos, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.

There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:

  • Make sure your air ducts remain clean, and change or clean your air filters regularly.
  • Schedule regular inspections to take care of issues as they arise.
  • Make sure your doors and windows are well-sealed and keep your attic well-ventilated.
  • Install a smart thermostat. If you don't want to or can't buy one, try keeping your inside temperature as close to the outside temperature as you can.
  • When replacing part of your system, see if there are Energy Star-certified or other environmentally friendly options.

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