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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In Ramona, a significant portion of your energy spending likely goes toward cooling down in the summer. On average, residents spend $130 a month cooling their homes.
Our list of Ramona's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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 home's HVAC system is malfunctioning or getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires expert attention:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system type. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The price of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work you're having done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,957-$4,990 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,966-$7,307 | |
Heat Pump | $3,071-$31,292 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $257-$428 |
HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their HVAC and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $64-$171 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,285-$3,855 | |
Thermostat Repair | $86-$214 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $411-$1,028 |
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 air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the specific 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 on a state-by-state basis.
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 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 reviews and complaints on sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with glowing reviews and testimonials about great customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of your project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, ask your contractor to provide details on the new brand, model, estimated installation time, features, 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.
Reputable HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Generally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have an inspection if you notice any new issues, like strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat 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 door or window leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be influenced by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician runs into.
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 Ramona, 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 between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Ramona, you'll likely want something on the higher end of this range. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you may consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to learn what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: