Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
According to the Department of Energy, approximately 55% of the energy used in American homes is used for heating and cooling. You want your Yuba City home to be comfortable, but you also don't want to waste your money on ineffective cooling and heating.
Our guide to Yuba City's top HVAC companies can help you get your system into its best shape ever, allowing you to keep comfortable while saving money.
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
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 is malfunctioning or suffering from a lot of wear and tear, you may need to hire an HVAC contractor for maintenance or replacement. Look for these common indicators that your system requires expert attention:
Book an inspection if you notice any of these problems. A local technician can assess your system, detect problems, and figure out whether you need repairs or a new HVAC unit.
Your HVAC installation or maintenance cost changes depending on the type of unit. Common HVAC unit varieties include the following:
The cost of HVAC maintenance also varies depending on the kind of work being done. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. The cost of some common repairs is as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,962-$5,001 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,975-$7,324 | |
| Heat Pump | $3,078-$31,364 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $258-$429 |
Essential HVAC maintenance is important, but can be expensive. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $64-$172 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,288-$3,864 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $86-$215 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $412-$1,030 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is crucial for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can offer you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Explain the issues and have specialists visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, warranties, and timeframes. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
When hiring an HVAC company, choose one with technicians that have the proper 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 required for all contractors who "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 what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. 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 Google Reviews, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can help your decision. Choose a provider with stellar reviews and stories of positive customer experiences.
It’s important to understand what the work process will look like. For HVAC repairs, the company should list the specific parts that need replacement and why. Get confirmation that your technician will clean and test your system afterward to guarantee everything is working correctly. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new model, estimated installation time, features, energy efficiency, and brand. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to review warranties between companies. Choose the one that provides the most comprehensive coverage at a fair cost.
Always get HVAC bids in writing before work begins. A comprehensive quote will cover costs for both labor and materials. Ensure that you understand all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice annually. After the inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also have your system inspected if you notice new issues such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Usually, it's a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected 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 likely 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 is comfortable, 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 help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace can take as little as half a day or as much as two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different sections are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Yuba City, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. In Yuba City, you'll likely need something on the higher end of this range. Usually, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Typically, HVAC financing is provided by 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 talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available to you and appropriate for your situation.
