Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. You want your Mentone home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to be wasting your money on inefficient cooling and heating.
Our list of Mentone's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced by the right person for the right price.
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or outdated likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these indicators that your system needs service:
Arrange an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and determine whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance is determined by your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and can require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,890-$4,817 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,829-$7,054 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,965-$30,211 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $248-$414 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be pricey. Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,241-$3,722 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $83-$207 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $397-$992 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can fix your system, providing you with effective heating and cooling for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC contractors. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
When selecting an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must 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 at the state level.
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 are required to have four years of experience and to be bonded, and contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Look for a a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system at the end of the job to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new features, brand, estimated installation time, model, and energy efficiency. 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.
Reliable HVAC companies offer warranties on service and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the best protection for the fairest price.
Get a written proposal before HVAC work begins. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. After the inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also have your system inspected if you start noticing issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected 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 likely 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. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
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 Mentone, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Mentone, you'll likely want something on the higher end of this range. In general, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company may have financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain a loan on your own. 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.
