Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the Department of Energy. Since cooling and heating represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to make sure the HVAC system in your Rancho Santa Margarita home is functioning properly.
A talented HVAC contractor can get your system into shape for a reasonable price, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Rancho Santa Margarita.
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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 isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and let you know whether whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance will vary depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complex and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $2,035-$5,187 | |
| Hybrid Split | $4,123-$7,596 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,193-$32,531 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $267-$445 |
It's important to fix or swap out your HVAC components when they become damaged, but it can also be expensive. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $67-$178 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,336-$4,007 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $89-$223 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $427-$1,069 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable heating and air conditioning for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
When hiring an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the proper training, licenses, and experience. HVAC contractors in all states need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual 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 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. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Look for a a company with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you know the details of any project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the installation company to provide details on the new energy efficiency, brand, features, estimated installation time, and model. Before work begins, make sure you understand how your provider will properly size the new unit for your home and what the cost will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully review warranty terms for each contractor and choose the company that provides the most protection within your budget.
Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. 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 during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally 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, the times of the year when it gets 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 can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your house, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Rancho Santa Margarita, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air is likely to be more effective for cooling than window units.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Rancho Santa Margarita, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
