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10 Best HVAC Companies in Santa Monica, CA

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Written By Bradford Cuthrell

Last Updated February 2024

If you're like most Americans, more than half of your energy bill (55%, according to the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your Santa Monica home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.

Use our guide to the top HVAC companies in Santa Monica to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.

Top 10 Best HVAC Companies in Santa Monica

Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning

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8599 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90034 (310) 896-4911 brodypennell.com

Prompt service delivery

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Indoor air quality
Duct cleaning
Furnace installation
Inspection
Emergency services
Ductless
Furnace repair
Maintenance
Ac repair

LC Heating & Air

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509 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (818) 858-7080 lahvaclc.com

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Informative resources

Services Offered

Ventilation
Furnace installation
Ac repair
Emergency services
Maintenance
Duct cleaning
Ac installation
Indoor air quality
Furnace repair

Air Max HVAC

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9465 Wilshire Blvd #300, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 (424) 221-5357 airmaxexperts.com

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Services Offered

Maintenance
Indoor air quality
Ventilation
Filtration
Ac installation
Ac repair
Furnace repair
Furnace installation
Ductless

Kilowatt Heating, Air Conditioning and Electrical

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4925 Sepulveda Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 (818) 780-0701 kilowatthvac.com

Free quote

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Ac repair
Ductless
Maintenance
Ac installation
Filtration
Indoor air quality

West Coast Chief Repair

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355 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (213) 528-5885 chiefappliance.com

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Informative resources

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Thermostat installation
Ac repair
Maintenance
Ac installation
Radiant heating
Ventilation
Inspection
Ductless

Around the Clock Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc.

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1123 Lillian Way, Los Angeles, CA 90038 (310) 274-5525 aroundclock.com

Reliable customer support

Free quote

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Ductless
Indoor air quality
Furnace installation
Ducting
Duct cleaning
Ac repair
Ac installation
Furnace repair
Maintenance

Air-Al, Inc.

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5539 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019 (323) 934-3838 airalac.com

Prompt service delivery

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Informative resources

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Maintenance
Ductless
Ac repair
Ac installation
Furnace repair

Top Energy Solutions

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8265 Sunset Blvd #201, West Hollywood, CA 90046 (323) 310-2654 top-energy-solutions.com

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Informative resources

Free quote

Prompt service delivery

Services Offered

Ductless
Ventilation
Ac installation
Ducting

Lenco Heating & Air Conditioning

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11606 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064 (310) 473-2580 lencohvac.com

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Free quote

Services Offered

Ac installation
Inspection
Furnace repair
Ac repair
Furnace installation
Ductless
Maintenance
Ventilation

A/C Control, Inc.

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2355 Westwood Blvd #145, Los Angeles, CA 90064 (310) 909-4814 ac-control.com

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Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Informative resources

Services Offered

Maintenance
Ac repair
Indoor air quality
Ductless
Ventilation
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

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:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your HVAC system is faulty or getting near the end of its lifespan, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:

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

Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can inspect your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Santa Monica

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

  • Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central heating and cooling, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have indoor units in each room to control temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
  • Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but is able to utilize either electricity or gas for power.
  • Heat pump: Heat pumps work by moving warm and cool air between your home and the outdoors. These systems don't create heat or air conditioning themselves, and are more suited to more moderate climates. They may not be as effective during Santa Monica's hot summers.
  • Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems work well in smaller homes. They consist of a single combined heating and air conditioning unit, commonly located in an attic or basement. This unit is typically space-saving, cost-effective, and straightforward to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complex and may need a number of types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

HVAC Unit Type Cost
Split $1,918-$4,889
Hybrid Split $3,886-$7,159
Heat Pump $3,009-$30,658
Packaged Heating and Air $252-$420

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

HVAC system repairs and replacements are important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.

  • 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 identify and fix problems before they get too expensive.
  • Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help decrease the work required from your house's HVAC system.
  • Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow smoothly through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
  • Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, indoor evaporator coil, ductwork, and grills regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system once it begins to look dirty.

Service Cost
Filter Replacement $63-$168
Condensor Cleaning $1,259-$3,777
Thermostat Repair $84-$210
Ductwork Cleaning $403-$1,007

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing the right things to look for in an HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Established providers with certified technicians can offer assurance your HVAC system will deliver consistent coolig and heating year-round.

Compare Multiple Bids

Get quotes from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid contractors that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with 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 required 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 on a state-by-state basis.

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 must have four years of experience and be bonded. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Also check a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and Google Reviews. Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.

Understand Work Details

It’s important to know what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the exact parts that need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system features, model, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, and brand. Before signing a contract, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between companies. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a fair cost.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote covers costs for both labor and materials. Ensure that you agree to all terms before signing the contract.

Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC in Santa Monica, CA

Typically, 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 start to notice any issues, like leaks, strange noises, 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 tend to be less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally 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 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 avoid letting cool air escape. 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 an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this may take between half a day and two days. This timeline will be determined by the size of your house, 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 around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Santa Monica, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will generally 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 Santa Monica, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.

Your HVAC company may have financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's smart 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 several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:

  • Keep your air ducts clean and clean or change your air filters on a regular basis.
  • Schedule regular inspections to take care of issues as they arise.
  • Keep your attic well-ventilated and make sure all doors and windows are well-sealed.
  • Install a smart thermostat. If you don't want to or can't buy one, try keeping the temperature indoors as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable.
  • When it comes time to replace any part of your system, see if there are Energy Star-certified or other environmentally friendly options.

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