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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, 55% of the energy used in American homes is for heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. Since cooling and heating represent such a significant chunk of your utility bills, you'll want to ensure that the HVAC system in your Berkeley home is functioning optimally.
Browse our guide to the top HVAC companies in Berkeley to find the right one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
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:
An HVAC system that's broken or old likely needs professional attention for repairs or replacement. Watch for these signals that your system needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and determine whether repair or full HVAC replacement is needed.
The cost of HVAC installation or maintenance varies depending on the type of unit you have. Common types of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC expenses vary based on the services 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 | $1,987-$5,064 | |
Hybrid Split | $4,025-$7,416 | |
Heat Pump | $3,117-$31,760 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $261-$435 |
It's important to repair or replace your HVAC system when it's broken, but it can also be expensive. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to slow the wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $65-$174 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,304-$3,912 | |
Thermostat Repair | $87-$217 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $417-$1,043 |
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.
Contact at least three HVAC providers for quotes. Describe your issues and schedule an in-person inspection if possible. Compare providers' diagnoses, suggested repairs, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid providers that pressure you or demand upfront payment.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary licensure and training. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors 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 by the state.
The state of Missouri doesn't have state-level HVAC contractor licensing requirements; however, most municipalities have local requirements. It's always a good idea to check with your local government to understand requirements for licenses such as HVAC Contractor or HVAC Journeyman Contractor. You can also check that a company holds a valid business license. Reviewing feedback on Yelp, Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and similar sites can assist your decision as well. Choose a company with stellar reviews and stories of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you know what a company’s process looks like. When getting HVAC repairs, ask your provider to specify which parts need replacement and explain why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the system at the end of the job to guarantee proper operation. When replacing your HVAC, ask the provider to explain the new brand, energy efficiency, estimated installation time, features, and model. Before work starts, make 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.
Reputable HVAC companies stand behind their work with warranties. Look at warranties from different companies, keeping in mind that broader coverage is better. Look for the company that provides the most coverage for a fair price.
Get a written quote before HVAC work starts. A comprehensive quote includes both materials and labor costs. Make sure you understand and agree to all terms before signing the contract.
You should have your HVAC system inspected about twice a year. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you if any services are required. You should also call a technician if you notice new issues such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your system has ductwork, it should be inspected every few years.
Normally, you should schedule inspections in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps make sure your system is prepared for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy throughout the year by making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain your home's temperature. Always keep your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you can, and avoid making drastic changes — adjust it only a few degrees at once. You may also consider installing a smart thermostat.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing a furnace or air conditioning unit takes anywhere from about half a day up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on factors like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician runs into 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).
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to look for an air conditioning unit with around 2.5 to 5 tons of capacity. Typically, if your home is over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Your HVAC company might provide financing options via a third-party lender, or you might be able to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with a financial advisor and your HVAC company to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: