10 Best HVAC Companies in Placerville, CA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is broken or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these indicators your system needs service:

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

If you see any of these HVAC issues, 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.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Placerville

What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to manage temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions very similarly to a standard split system. It has the benefit of having the capability to use either gas or electricity for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move warm and cool air between your home and the outside. These systems don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work better in moderate climates.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work best in smaller houses. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, usually located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically small, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.

The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your grills, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and condenser fan blades clean helps your system run and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends that you clean your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Monitor for potential problems. Keeping a close eye on the efficiency of your HVAC system — for instance by checking your thermostat settings and energy bills — helps you identify and fix problems before they get out of hand.
• 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 lower the work required from your house's HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Cleaning or replacing your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the outside areas of your HVAC system as much as possible.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

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

Compare Multiple Bids

Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the companies' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.

Check Credentials

Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the 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.

In California, HVAC contractors 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. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Choose a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to verify proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask your contractor to provide details on the new energy efficiency, features, model, 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.

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 gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before work begins. An itemized quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.