Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. With so much money invested in cooling and heating your Orange Cove home, you want to know that you're getting the best return on your investment.
We've compiled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Orange Cove to help you choose the best person for your job and get your system into its best shape ever.
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
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 having issues or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs repairs or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these signs your system needs service:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need to fix or replace your HVAC.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,828-$4,659 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,703-$6,822 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,867-$29,217 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $240-$400 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $60-$160 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,200-$3,599 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $80-$200 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $384-$960 |
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 heating and cooling in your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare contractors' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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 by the state.
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. Checking reviews on Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before starting. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, brand, features, and model. Before signing paperwork, make sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, while remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are needed. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, like unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year 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, 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 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 windows and doors to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes around 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 can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline will be affected by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any new 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).
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 Orange Cove, you'll likely want a unit on the higher end of this range. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you might choose to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
