10 Best HVAC Companies in West Covina, CA

Signs You May Need HVAC Repair or Replacement

If your home's HVAC system isn't working correctly or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these common signs that your system requires professional attention:

• Corrosion, rust, or cracking
• Higher than normal energy bills
• Temperature control issues or thermostat malfunctions
• Refrigerant leaks
• Frequent breakdowns and need for repairs
• Uneven heating/cooling or poor air circulation
• Odd noises when the system turns on
• An HVAC system that's over 15 years old

These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local company can complete an inspection, identify problems, and advise you whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.

Cost of HVAC Installation and Maintenance in West Covina

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

• Split or mini-split: If your home's ductwork isn’t suited for a central HVAC system, you probably have a split or mini-split system. Split systems have internal units in each room to regulate temperature; these indoor units all connect to an outdoor unit.
• Hybrid split: A hybrid split HVAC unit operates similarly to a regular split system. It gives flexibility by providing the option to use either electricity or gas for energy.
• Heat pump: Heat pumps move warm and cool air between your home and the outside. These systems don't generate their own heat or AC, so they work better in milder climates and may not be as effective during West Covina's hot summers.
• Packaged heating and air: Packaged HVAC systems are a good choice for smaller homes. They have a single cooling and heating unit, normally in an attic or basement. This unit is often compact, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.

HVAC maintenance costs vary based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Fees for typical jobs are as follows:

Ways to Save Money on HVAC Costs

It’s important to make any essential HVAC fixes or replacements as needed, 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.

• Change the position of your blinds seasonally. Closing your blinds in the summer blocks some passive solar heat from getting indoors. Opening the blinds in the winter allows this same heat to help warm your home. Both of these measures help lower the work required from your house's HVAC system.
• Monitor for potential problems. Monitoring your system for issues — for example, by checking your thermostat and energy bills regularly — helps you get ahead of problems before they get too expensive.
• Change filters regularly. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every 1–3 months helps air flow efficiently through your HVAC system. You should also try to prevent dirt and debris from building up around the outside areas of your system.
• Keep your system clean. Cleaning your condenser fan blades, ductwork, indoor evaporator coil, and grills regularly helps your HVAC system work efficiently and lowers the risk of mold growth. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association recommends cleaning your HVAC system when it begins to look dirty.

How To Choose a Local HVAC Company

Finding the right HVAC company is key for a smooth installation or repair. Hiring 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 three or more HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Compare each company's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, timeline, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment before work.

Check Credentials

When picking an HVAC provider, choose one with technicians that have the appropriate training, licenses, and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors must obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." An individual must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the type of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.

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. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. Always check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews. Choose a provider with positive reviews and a history of good customer service.

Understand Work Details

Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. For HVAC repairs, 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 ensure that everything works. When getting a replacement, ask your contractor to explain the new HVAC system estimated installation time, features, model, energy efficiency, and brand. Before starting the project, you should understand the process your provider will use to properly size the system for your home and the price you'll pay.

Compare Warranties

Good HVAC companies offer warranties on repairs and installations. The more complete the coverage, the better. Review warranty details between providers and pick the one that offers the most comprehensive protection for a fair price.

Get Quote in Writing

Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before work begins. A detailed quote should cover both materials and labor. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.