Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the typical American homeowner, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling. With the cost of living in Palm Springs, you're probably eager to reduce your energy bills.
We've compiled this guide to the top HVAC companies in Palm Springs to help you find the right person for your job and get your system into top shape.
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or old likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, it's wise to have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can diagnose problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is the best course of action.
HVAC installation or maintenance costs vary depending on your system. Common HVAC unit types include the following:
HVAC maintenance costs differ based on the specific services required. HVAC systems can be complicated and potentially require a number of services. Costs for typical jobs are as follows:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Split | $1,875-$4,781 | |
| Hybrid Split | $3,800-$7,001 | |
| Heat Pump | $2,942-$29,981 | |
| Packaged Heating and Air | $246-$410 |
Taking care of necessary HVAC repairs and replacements when needed is important, but can be costly. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
| Service | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Replacement | $62-$164 | |
| Condensor Cleaning | $1,231-$3,693 | |
| Thermostat Repair | $82-$205 | |
| Ductwork Cleaning | $394-$985 |
Knowing what to look for in an HVAC company is important for a successful project. Partnering with an experienced, licensed contractor can give you peace of mind and ensure your system provides reliable air conditioning and heating for your home.
Request estimates from three or more HVAC companies. Explain your issues and ask if technicians 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 highly trained technicians who have proper licensing and experience. HVAC contractors in all states have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, an individual must pass an exam (the specific exam depends on what 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 by the state.
In Florida, HVAC contractors must be certified or registered with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Certified HVAC contractors need to have four years of experience, pass an exam, and carry HVAC business insurance. Registered HVAC contractors can only work in one specific city, and the local government sets licensing requirements. You should also look at a company's reviews and complaints on sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pick a company with great feedback and good customer testimonials.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process is like. When HVAC repairs are needed, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system at the end of the job to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, request that the company explain the new energy efficiency, brand, model, estimated installation time, and features. Before work starts, be sure you understand the process your provider will use to size the new HVAC system appropriately for your home and what the price will be.
Trustworthy HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. The broader the coverage, the better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
Always get quotes for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. A comprehensive quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you understand all terms before signing a contract.
Typically, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, such as unusual smells, leaks, or strange noises. If you have ductwork in your home, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have an HVAC inspection are the spring and fall. Technicians are often less busy during these times, making it easier to get an appointment. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, which is when it normally 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 can, and avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any door or window leaks to avoid letting cool air escape. Similarly, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, whole-system HVAC installation or replacement takes one to 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 factors like how large your home is, how easily accessible different parts of the system are, and whether your technician finds any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Palm Springs, you'll probably want to choose a unit that's on the higher end of this range. If your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will usually be more effective than window units for cooling.
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 Palm Springs, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company may have financing options via a third-party lender, or you may choose to obtain a loan on your own. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you're choosing the best option for you.
