Best HVAC Replacement & Central AC Installation Services in Los Angeles

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HVAC Contractors in Los Angeles, CA

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How Much Does an HVAC Replacement Cost?

Average cost: $5,400 - $19,800. Use Modernize's calculator to estimate your HVAC project.

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How Much Does HVAC Installation Cost in Los Angeles? 

The average installation cost for a new HVAC system in Los Angeles can range from $7,354 to $12,872 for a single story 2,000 square foot home. You can expect the price range above when installing a new central air conditioner and gas furnace combination. Expect to pay more if you’ll also need your current ductwork replaced.

Hiring the Best HVAC Contractor in Los Angeles

It’s almost summer in Los Angeles. And most people are doing some preparations to make sure that they are prepared for what the hot season may bring. If you are needing to replace or repair your current AC unit, you are likely doing a lot of research into the type of HVAC system you should have installed. The two most critical things to research when completing an HVAC replacement is what system you want installed and also having a reliable LA contractor to complete the job.  A reliable air conditioning installer in Los Angeles will be able to help you through the HVAC replacement process in an affordable and timely manner.

Los Angeles is a mega metropolis that uses a lot of energy to sustain its population. When you choose to install a new HVAC system or replace an old, inefficient model, you’ll be doing your part to help conserve energy, lower your monthly utility bills, and increase the value of your property. These are all positive reasons for a new system. The downside is a new system can be an expensive project with estimates in the thousands of dollars. But over time, a more efficient system, along with non-leaking duct work, will save you money.

With all of the options you have to hire a quality HVAC installer in Los Angeles, choosing the right person should be your top priority. When your new system is repaired or replaced by reliable local HVAC and central AC installation specialists who understand your requirements, it will be tuned and adjusted according to the manufacturer’s specifications and the need for your space.. The equipment installed runs more reliable with less wear and tear on its parts. You will experience fewer breakdowns, and you may have as much as double the lifespan of your equipment when working with a quality contractor. When investing in such a large project as HVAC replacement, you have one shot to do it right the first time and you’ll need to be able to trust that your contractor is doing the most that they can for you. 

heating and AC contractors in Atlanta

How do you know you are hiring the best HVAC contractor for the job? Here are a few things that a qualified HVAC installer will be able to help you determine:

What HVAC Unit Size Do I Need?

If you rely on your HVAC contractor to suggest the size and dimensions of your new furnace or air conditioner, make sure they are not making simple assumptions for it. Evaluate if they are working on the necessary calculations to get it right. Make sure you don’t fall victim to the idea that bigger is better from your installer. An oversized unit can cause problems in the long run – shortening the lifespan of your system, costing more to install, and causing higher electricity bills. A qualified HVAC contractor will have industry tools and technology to analyze your home’s cooling zones and exactly what HVAC system will have the best heating and cooling output for your desired temperatures. 

Choosing a Replacement HVAC System in Los Angeles

Choosing the right type of system to install can be daunting, especially since your current HVAC system may not be the best fit for your property in terms of tonnage, Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio (SEER), Heat Pump Efficiency Factor (HSPF) and Average Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE).

The SEER ratio measures the efficiency and determines a rating for the cooling process of central air conditioners and heat pumps. The current government mandated minimum SEER rating is 13.0. The lesser the rating, the more money you are probably paying each month. When looking at HVAC prices, the systems with higher SEER ratios mean it has greater efficiency and significant energy savings but the HVAC system will be more expensive up front than a lower SEER rated brand.

The HSPF factor measures and calculates the estimated average of heating efficiency for a heat pump.  Like the SEER ratio, the higher HSPF number means greater efficiency and cost savings. The minimum HSFP for heat pumps manufactured prior to 2005 is 6.8. For heat pumps manufactured after 2005, the HSPF is required to be at least 7.7.

The AFUE is a standard measurement used for oil and gas-fired furnaces. In a nutshell, the measurement lets you know how much fuel is used for heating and how much is wasted. As with the SEER and HSPF figures, the higher the AFUE the better efficiency and savings you’ll experience. If your property’s system is fuel powered, the top furnaces with up to 96.7% efficiency provide the optimum in energy efficiency and lower monthly operating costs.

Along with understanding the SEER, HSPF, and AFUE ratings, you’ll also need to know the size of your property. Its square footage is used to determine system size; and, while you may think bigger is better, this isn’t true. Likewise, an HVAC that is too small to adequately heat and cool an entire property is both an energy drain and a monetary drain. To help give you an idea of where you stand in terms of tonnage needed, SEER, HSPF and AFUE, and how much a new system will impact the value of your property, use this free online estimation tool. 

HVAC Permits in Los Angeles

The State of California is earnest in its support of cleaner energy, better efficiency, and leaving fewer carbon footprints through a rigorous process of requiring certain steps before any installation work begins. To find out what you need to do to apply, visit the Department of Public Works at 900 S. Fremont Ave., Alhambra or call (626) 458-5100. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

State of California HVAC Contractor Requirements

The state of California not only requires a permit prior to installation and a duct verification test inspected by a HERS Rater, the state also requires that only state certified contractors do the work. To eliminate the possibility of hiring a contractor who may not have the appropriate license and certification, use the free search tool available at the Contractor’s State License Board website.

Paying for HVAC Replacement in Los Angeles, California

Purchasing an HVAC system outright is a large investment for most. If you find you’ll be in need of alternative funding options, consider these:

  • Home equity line of credit (HELOC)
  • Loan from a financial institution
  • Credit card
  • Financing by the dealer selling the HVAC system
  • Special programs
  • Energy Efficient Programs in California
  • Programs from Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE)

What is the ROI for a New HVAC System in Los Angeles

Many property owners don’t realize that installing a new HVAC can mean a substantial increase in their property’s value. If you use the estimation tool suggested above, the result includes a projected increase in value. Add to that a more efficient system, better climate control, and increased savings and you’ve secured a significant ROI on your property. Here are a few other things you’ll want to make sure your HVAC installation service contractor is taking into consideration for your new cooling and heating unit:

Good Air Distribution Design

Your air conditioner does only half of the job for your entire HVAC system. For your HVAC system to work efficiently, the heating and cooling of air where it is needed, your ducting needs to be correctly designed and fitted correctly for your space and your equipment. Duct sizes need to match the output capacity of the unit. Beware of some contractors that might take shortcuts by using the previously installed ducting when installing new equipment. The old ducting system should always be analyzed if it’s older to make sure it’s fitted appropriately and also that there is no damage/leaks that would hinder the full capacity of your new HVAC system to operate properly.     

Duct Replacement

If your contractor is replacing your home’s old ducting system, make sure that they are not using substandard materials. Also, try assessing if their finished works are high-quality or not. These ducts may be installed incorrectly and leave gaps and cracks. If this happens to you, your duct system is going to have leaks in no time. If such leaks occur, it will make your electric bill rise significantly, since heated or cooled air is wasted. Besides, such leaks will cause excess dust, annoying sounds, and even humidity problems. This is why it’s best to work with HVAC service providers with high ratings and reviews and proof of past work that involved duct work replacement. 

Good Draining Systems

HVAC systems can create a significant amount of wastewater, which needs to be drained safely from the system. If your contractor is inexperienced or takes shortcuts, this can cause severe water damage to your home’s overall structure from water leaks and exposure. In the cold weather, water backing up can even freeze your home’s piping and destroy your HVAC system. Stuck water can also cause mold  and air quality problems that can go unnoticed. 

HVAC Exhaust Systems

An HVAC system produces toxic gases. It includes carbon monoxide that needs to have a ventilation system out of your home. If the exhaust dampers have the wrong size, fumes can back up and accumulate in the air. The next thing you know, you are inhaling carbon monoxide, and that is a severe threat to your health. It’s good to be aware of your exhaust system’s existence and to ask your contractor about it to make sure it’s working properly after installing a new central air conditioner or gas furnace.