Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated May 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. When you live in Oakdale, a large part of your energy spending probably goes toward your summer air conditioning bill — the average resident spends approximately $160 monthly.
Our guide to Oakdale's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system repaired, installed or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
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 near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:
If you're experiencing any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can identify problems and decide whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance depends on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. Fees for common services are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,922-$4,900 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,895-$7,176 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,016-$30,730 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $252-$421 |
It’s important to complete repairs or full-system HVAC replacements as needed, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to minimize progressive deterioration and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,262-$3,786 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $84-$210 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $404-$1,009 |
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 maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend 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 must have four years of experience and be bonded. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with positive feedback and good customer testimonials.
Always make sure you understand 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 your system after finishing the work to ensure proper operation. For replacement, ask the contractor to explain the new HVAC system brand, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, and model. Before work begins, 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 work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that offers the best coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Confirm that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
Typically, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during 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, when it typically gets 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 you comfortably 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 roughly 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 may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, try to purchase a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Oakdale, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Oakdale, you'll likely look for a unit on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to find out what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
