How do I find a good HVAC contractor in San Francisco?
You can find the best HVAC and AC contractors in San Francisco by performing an online search. By viewing the top-rated local pros online, you can easily compare ratings and Top Pro statuses. You can also easily access customer reviews, as well as customer-provided photos of actual work done by the contractors.
It’s also helpful to check the contractors’ qualifications. Find out if the pros you’re considering have any credentials, certifications or licenses. For example, you can visit California's Department of Consumer Affairs website to look up HVAC and AC pros and find out if they’re licensed.
Once you’ve identified three to five pros who seem like a great fit for your project, start asking them for free estimates. Compare the prices you receive to help narrow down the search. In the end, choose a HVAC contractor you believe has the best reviews, the most experience and the fairest prices for their services.
What size air conditioner do I need?
Your air conditioner should have about 20 BTU per square foot of living space, according to Consumer Reports. However, you should also account for other factors in the room.
If it’s a very shady space, you can take off 10% of the square footage BTU calculation. If it’s sunny, add 10%. For rooms normally occupied by two or more people, you should add 600 BTU per additional person. Finally, if the room is a kitchen, add 4,000 BTU to your calculated square footage total.
Talk to an air conditioning company or HVAC professional to find out what size you should get.
Do I need central air in San Francisco?
For some California coastal cities — like San Francisco — central air conditioning is rare. The city does not commonly experience high temperatures, and ocean breezes and fog keep the weather famously chilly.
Still, the city does occasionally experience heat waves and record temperatures. If you want to ensure you’ll stay cool during the city's hottest days, air conditioning might be worth the cost. Contact San Francisco’s best HVAC pros to get free estimates and learn more about your options.
What does SEER mean on an air conditioner?
The SEER label on an air conditioner stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. This is a measure of the efficiency of either an air conditioning unit or a heat pump.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends replacing older AC units with energy-efficient models. Contact an air conditioning company or HVAC specialist for tips on how to select a new unit.
Why is my air conditioner leaking water?
An air conditioner leaking inside the house is a common problem. It could indicate that the air filter is dirty. Or, one of the following may be the culprit:
- Clogged condensate drain line
- Leaky, damaged, cracked or rusted drain pan
- Dirty or broken coils
- Frozen evaporator coils
- Broken condensate pump
- Not enough refrigerant
- Disconnected drain line
If your AC is leaking, contact a repair service to find out what the problem is — and how much it will cost to fix it.
Can I install central air myself?
While you may be able to do some preparation work for central air installation, you should hire a licensed contractor to complete the project and handle the air conditioning refrigerants.
Also, unless you have the proper credentials, you risk making common mistakes when installing central air. This may include installing the wrong-size furnace, improperly installing ductwork and exhaust systems, and incorrectly managing drainage.
To ensure your central air is installed correctly, contact the best HVAC pros near you and start getting free estimates today.
Does central air add value to a home?
A central air unit or HVAC system may add value to your home. Or, if you’re in the process of selling your home, it may help you close a sale.
The Remodeling Impact report found that 20% of realtors have suggested that home sellers replace their HVAC before attempting to sell their homes, and 7% said this project did help close a sale.
Talk with an expert to figure out if adding an HVAC system is a good idea for your home. And contact the best HVAC pros near you to get free estimates so you’ll know how much this project will cost you.
Is it worth it to install central air?
Depending on where you live, it might be worth it to install central air. Central air makes your house comfortable on hot summer days. And although it’s hard to predict if adding central air will increase your home’s value, prospective homebuyers will certainly notice if it’s missing.
Another advantage of central air is that it can help dehumidify your home. Not only will it make your home more comfortable and enjoyable, but it can also help prevent mold from growing or spreading.
Contact the best HVAC contractors near you to learn more about the central air installation process and to start receiving free estimates.
How much does it cost to install appliances?
Installing a new appliance costs $125, on average. However, homeowners should expect to pay within the range of $120 to $150.
For less complex appliance installations, you may pay a low-end cost ranging between $65 and $100. On the other hand, more complex appliances like laundry machines, ranges and other items can cost between $175 and $326 to install. Ask whichever appliance installation service you hire to give you a price quote, if possible.
Should you tip appliance installers?
You can tip appliance installers if you feel their service has gone above and beyond. A standard tip is between $10 and $20.
Reasons you might consider tipping include a very pleasant customer service demeanor, having to carry a heavy appliance up or down the stairs, working in inclement weather, taking care not to make a mess and other acts of care and consideration. You are not obligated to leave a tip — but one is always appreciated.
