10 Best HVAC Companies in Menlo Park, CA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:

• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Cracking, rust, or corrosion
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Refrigerant leaks
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can evaluate your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Menlo Park

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home doesn’t have the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to regulate temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system works almost the same as a standard split system. It has the advantage of having the capability to use either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cold air between your home and outside. They don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work best in temperate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, usually located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC expenses vary based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.

• Change filters regularly. Replacing your air filters or washing them every 1–3 months allows efficient air circulation through your HVAC system. You should also try to keep debris from accumulating on the external parts of your HVAC.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and condenser fan blades helps your HVAC system run efficiently and lowers the risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your home’s HVAC 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.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs qualified technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all contractors who "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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.

HVAC contractors in California 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. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the particular parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to ensure proper functioning. When replacing your HVAC, request that the installation company describe the new estimated installation time, features, model, brand, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

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