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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their home energy usage to heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. You don't want to spend more than necessary on temperature control in your Union City home, so it's important to make sure all systems are functioning properly.
We've assembled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Union City to help you choose the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Free quote
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 might need an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common signs that your system requires professional attention:
If you see any of these HVAC issues, have a technician inspect your system. A local professional can detect problems and determine whether repairing or getting a new HVAC unit is the best solution.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the kind of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary based on the work needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may need a number of types of maintenance. Prices for common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $2,094-$5,338 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,243-$7,817 | |
Heat Pump | $3,285-$33,475 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $275-$458 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is crucial, but can be costly. Luckily, there are actions you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $69-$183 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,375-$4,124 | |
Thermostat Repair | $92-$229 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $440-$1,100 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. Working with a contractor that's properly licensed and highly experienced will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Get quotes from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if specialists 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.
Choose an HVAC company with well-trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what 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. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. You'll want to select a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.
Always make sure you understand what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to ensure proper operation. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new features, estimated installation time, model, brand, and energy efficiency. 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.
Reputable HVAC companies back their work with warranties. Compare warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the provider that offers the most coverage for a fair price.
Get written quotes before beginning HVAC work. The quote should cover costs for both materials and labor. Review all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected approximately twice yearly. Following an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, strange noises, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's smart to schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as these times tend to be less busy. This also helps get your system ready 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. Keep your thermostat temperature 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.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will depend on factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician runs into any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Union City, you'll probably want to explore units on the higher end of this range. For homes over 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective for cooling than window units.
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 Union City, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Normally, HVAC financing is offered through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer these options, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to speak with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: