Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated June 2024
If you're like the average American, over half of your energy bill (55%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your San Ramon home, you want to ensure that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our list of San Ramon's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
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 HVAC system is having issues 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:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost fluctuates depending on the style of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary 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 | $2,024-$5,159 | |
| Hybrid Split | $4,100-$7,554 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,175-$32,351 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $266-$443 |
Repairing or replacing your HVAC system when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $66-$177 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,328-$3,985 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $89-$221 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $425-$1,063 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for an easy installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide consistent heating and air conditioning year-round.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC providers. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians who have the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "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.
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 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 a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Yelp. Choose a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
It’s important to understand what the work process is going to look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should explain the specific parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to make sure everything is operating properly. When replacing your HVAC, ask the contractor to describe the new brand, features, estimated installation time, model, 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.
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 provider that offers the most coverage for a reasonable price.
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.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice yearly. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also schedule an inspection if you start noticing issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's smart to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it likely sees 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 window or door leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure 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 only need a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be affected by the size of your home, how easily accessible your system is, and any new issues your technician uncovers.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In San Ramon, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In San Ramon, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company might have financing options through 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:
