Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, 55% of energy use in American homes goes toward heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In South Gate, much of that energy use probably goes toward cooling your home in the warm summer months. In fact, South Gate residents spend, on average, $120 a month cooling their homes.
We've put together this guide to South Gate's top HVAC companies to help you hire the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
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 home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or getting old, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common indicators that your system needs professional attention:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these issues. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common kinds of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Price ranges for typical 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 |
It's important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements in a timely manner, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, 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 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and make sure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, 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 proper qualifications and expertise. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by 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 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 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 are required to have four years of experience and to be bonded. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Reviewing feedback on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, Yelp, and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive customer experiences.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after finishing the work to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, features, and brand. Before work starts, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their services. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.
Get written quotes before starting any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are needed. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as leaks, strange noises, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Generally, you should 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 probably sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by making it easier for your HVAC system 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 door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will depend on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In South Gate, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. For homes 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 should also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In South Gate, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company might provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.
