Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. When you live in McFarland, a big part of your energy spending probably goes toward your summer cooling bill — the average resident spends approximately $160 monthly.
We've researched and assembled this guide to McFarland's top HVAC companies to help you find the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
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 maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the best solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices differ depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and may require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for some common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,885-$4,805 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,819-$7,036 | |
Heat Pump | $2,957-$30,132 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $247-$412 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your HVAC.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,237-$3,712 | |
Thermostat Repair | $82-$206 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $396-$990 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company'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 proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor 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 at the state level.
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 are required to have four years of experience and to be bonded, and contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing feedback and stories of satisfied customers.
It’s important to understand what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the specific parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your installation company to provide details on the new features, model, energy efficiency, brand, and estimated installation time. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to select the correctly sized system 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. Review warranty details between companies and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for the fairest price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both labor and material costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. After the inspection, your technician will inform you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's smart to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it likely 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 is comfortable, 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 avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes between one and three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, 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 McFarland, 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 McFarland, you'll likely want something on the higher end of this range. Generally, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to 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: