7 Best HVAC Companies in Ridgecrest, CA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or nearing the end of its lifespan, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for repairs or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system requires professional attention:

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

If you see any of these HVAC issues, you should have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Ridgecrest

HVAC installation or maintenance prices change depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central air or heating, you likely 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 comparably to a regular split system. It provides flexibility by providing the option to draw on either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cool air between your home and outside. They don't produce their own heat or AC, so they function best in temperate climates and may not be as effective during Ridgecrest's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. These systems have a single heating and cooling unit, normally located in an attic or basement. They're compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for some common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be pricey. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Keeping your indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, condenser fan blades, and grills clean helps your system run and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system whenever it begins to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outside areas of your system.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective heating and cooling in your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timeline. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.

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, 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 at the state level.

In California, HVAC contractors 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 reviews and complaints on sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a company with positive reviews and testimonials about good customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system at the end of the job to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new features, model, brand, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC quotes in writing before work begins. A detailed quote will cover costs for both materials and labor. Make sure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.