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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
If you're like most Americans, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. You want to be comfortable in your Marina home, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on ineffective cooling and heating.
Our list of Marina's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
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:
If your HVAC system is faulty or getting old, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the specific services needed. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,945-$4,959 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,941-$7,261 | |
Heat Pump | $3,052-$31,097 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $255-$426 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$170 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,277-$3,831 | |
Thermostat Repair | $85-$213 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $409-$1,022 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy 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.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
When picking an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the right training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is required for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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 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 are required to have four years of experience and to 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, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system at the end of the job to guarantee proper operation. When getting a replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, energy efficiency, features, estimated installation time, and model. Before signing a contract, you should understand how your provider will size the system appropriately for your home and the price you'll pay.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, like strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally gets 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, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. 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 factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Marina, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective for cooling than window units.
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 Marina, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Usually, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you may consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: