10 Best HVAC Companies in Sunnyvale, CA

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 indicators your system needs service:

• Poor air circulation or uneven heating/cooling
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Refrigerant leaks
• Unusually high energy bills
• Cracking, corrosion, or rust
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Strange noises when the system turns on
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

If you notice any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can diagnose problems and determine whether fixing or replacing your HVAC unit is the correct solution.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Sunnyvale

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home lacks the ductwork for central air or heating, you probably have a split or mini-split system instead. Split HVAC systems have interior units in each room to manage temperature. These connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC system functions much like a standard split system, but has the capacity to draw on either electricity or gas for power.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps exchange warm and cold air between your home and the outdoors. They don't make their own heat or AC, so they work best in moderate climates and may not be as effective during Sunnyvale'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, normally in a basement or attic. This unit is often space-saving, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC costs differ based on the services needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need several types of maintenance. Costs for common jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to take care of HVAC repairs and replacements when they are required, though they can be expensive. The good news is that homeowners have ways to reduce gradual wear and tear and reduce the frequency of breakdowns.

• Keep your system clean. Keeping your grills, indoor evaporator coil, condenser fan blades, and ductwork clean helps your system run and reduces the chance of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it starts to look dirty.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your system. You should also try to keep debris away from the outdoor portions of your HVAC system as much as possible.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitor your system for issues, for example by consistently checking your thermostat and energy bills. This enables you to address problems before they get too expensive.
• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Keeping your blinds closed in the summer helps block out passive solar heat. Keeping them open in the winter helps you take advantage of this same heat. Both of these measures help reduce the frequency with which you need to run your HVAC.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is vital for a smooth installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.

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 provider's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timelines, and warranties. 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. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors 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 must have four years of experience and be bonded, and contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Checking reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you know the details of any project before it begins. When getting HVAC repairs, have your provider detail which parts require replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test the system after the repair to ensure that everything works. When replacing your HVAC, have the contractor explain the new features, brand, model, energy efficiency, and estimated installation time. Before signing paperwork, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.

Compare Warranties

Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, remembering that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a reasonable price.

Get Quote in Writing

Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A full quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.