10 Best HVAC Companies in Santa Clara, CA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:

• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Corrosion, rust, or cracking
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Refrigerant leaks
• Odd noises when turning on
• Thermostat malfunctions or temperature control issues
• Unusually high energy bills
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can identify problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Santa Clara

The price of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you likely have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have interior units in each room to control temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by having the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange hot and cold air between your home and the outside. These systems don't make their own heat or AC, so they work more efficiently in moderate climates and may not be as effective during Santa Clara's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a great choice for smaller houses. They have a single cooling and heating unit, usually in a basement or attic. This unit is often compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different maintenance services. Prices for common services are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is crucial, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.

• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 30–90 days helps air flow smoothly through your system. Also try to keep debris away from the outside areas of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• 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 find and solve issues before they get too expensive.
• Keep your system clean. Regularly cleaning grills, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and ductwork helps keep your HVAC system running efficiently and lowers your risk of mold. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association advises cleaning your system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds open in the winter helps you take advantage of passive solar heating. Keeping them closed in the summer helps keep some of this heat out. Both of these measures help reduce the amount of work your HVAC system needs to do.

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 for your home.

Compare Multiple Bids

Request estimates from at least three HVAC providers. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Compare each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

It's important to choose an HVAC company that employs technicians with the appropriate qualifications and expertise. 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 by the state.

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. Checking reviews on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can help your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.

Understand Work Details

Always make sure you understand the details of a planned project. When HVAC repairs are required, your provider should specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system after repairs are finished to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, request that the installation company describe the new estimated installation time, energy efficiency, model, features, and brand. Before signing a contract, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies back their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, while remembering that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that offers the most coverage for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get written estimates before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both labor and materials. Read all terms carefully before signing.