Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your Simi Valley home, you want to know that you're getting the best return on your investment.
Our guide to the top HVAC companies in Simi Valley can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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 faulty or getting old, it likely needs servicing or replacement from an HVAC company. Look for these indicators your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,932-$4,925 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,915-$7,213 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,031-$30,888 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $254-$423 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Fortunately, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $63-$169 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,268-$3,805 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $85-$211 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $406-$1,015 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Look for an experienced, licensed contractor that can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
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 intend 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). The CSLB considers HVAC contractors to be specialty contractors. All contractors are required to have four years of experience and to be bonded. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Reviewing feedback on Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Make sure you know the details of your project before starting. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the entire system after the repair to verify that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new energy efficiency, features, brand, model, and estimated installation time. Before signing paperwork, be sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
A trustworthy HVAC company will back its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the warranty coverage, the better. Carefully compare warranty terms between contractors and choose the company that provides the best protection at a reasonable price.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice yearly. After the inspection, your technician will inform you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Normally, 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 reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof in good shape and seal any leaks around your doors and windows to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this can take between half a day and two days. This timeline can be affected 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 a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Simi Valley, you may be able to make do with a furnace on the lower end of this range.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Simi Valley, you'll likely want a unit on the higher end of this range. Generally, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Normally, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you could consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to learn what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient:
