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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated February 2024
On average, Americans devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It's important to make sure the cooling and heating systems in your West Sacramento home are functioning optimally, so that you don't spend more than you need to.
Our guide to West Sacramento's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into top shape, allowing you to save money while staying comfortable.
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
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:
A faulty or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Look out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
Schedule an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can inspect your system, identify problems, and decide whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
What you spend on HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also depends on what kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. The prices of some common jobs are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,899-$4,842 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,848-$7,090 | |
Heat Pump | $2,980-$30,362 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $249-$416 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, homeowners can take steps to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$166 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,247-$3,740 | |
Thermostat Repair | $83-$208 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $399-$997 |
It's important to know what makes a good HVAC company. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can keep your system running efficiently, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Describe the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your HVAC system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, a contractor 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.
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, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Make sure you understand the details of any project before it begins. If HVAC repairs are required, have your provider list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm 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 estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, model, and brand. Before signing a contract, be sure you understand how your provider will determine the right system size for your home and what the price will be.
Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their services with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, bearing in mind that more comprehensive coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a reasonable price.
Get written quotes before beginning HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both labor and materials. Review all terms carefully before signing.
Normally, you should have your HVAC system inspected twice a year. After that inspection, your technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also have an inspection if you start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians tend to be less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, the times of the year when it gets 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 avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained 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 between one and three days to have your HVAC system installed or replaced. If you need just a furnace or a single air conditioning unit, this can take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your home, the accessibility of your system, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll need between 2.5 and 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In West Sacramento, 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 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 West Sacramento, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Typically, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't offer financing, you might consider taking out a loan on your own. Be sure to talk to 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: