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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling. In Sierra Madre, you're likely looking to reduce this energy expense and save money on your bills.
The right HVAC contractor can get your system into its best shape ever, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable. That's why we've put together this guide to the top HVAC companies in Sierra Madre.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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 faulty or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Watch for these signs your system needs service:
If you notice any of these HVAC red flags, your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and can require different maintenance services. Prices for common services 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 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $63-$168 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,259-$3,777 | |
Thermostat Repair | $84-$210 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $403-$1,007 |
Finding the right HVAC company is crucial for a smooth 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 specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have appropriate licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual 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 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, and contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Always check a company's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You'll want to select a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to explain which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system afterward to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, have the provider describe the new features, estimated installation time, brand, energy efficiency, and model. 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.
Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and equipment installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Compare warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection within your budget.
Get written quotes before beginning HVAC work. The quote should include costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as leaks, unusual smells, or strange noises. If your home has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, it's best to have your HVAC system inspected 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 reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as is comfortable, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any window or door leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will be based on things like how large your home is, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Sierra Madre, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective than window units for cooling.
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 Sierra Madre, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: