HVAC Companies in California
We list 5,880 HVAC companies in 632 California cities and towns. Pick a city to compare them, or send one request and let local HVAC companies come to you.
Cities in California
Smaller towns (214)
How to choose a HVAC company
Check the license and insurance
Most states require HVAC contractors to hold a state or local license, and you can usually look one up on the state contractor board's website. Ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Technicians who handle refrigerant must also hold the federal EPA Section 608 certification.
Insist on a proper sizing calculation
A new system should be sized using a load calculation, often called a Manual J, that looks at your home's size, insulation, windows and layout. Be wary of a contractor who simply matches the size of your old unit without measuring anything. A system that is too big or too small can run inefficiently and wear out sooner.
Compare written quotes line by line
A good quote lists the brand and model numbers, efficiency ratings, labor, permits, removal of the old equipment, and the warranty on both parts and labor. Get at least three quotes for a replacement so you can compare like for like. A price far below the others often means something has been left out.
Ask who pulls the permit
Many cities and counties require a permit to install a new furnace, air conditioner or heat pump. A reputable contractor will pull the permit and arrange the inspection. Skipping the permit can cause problems with insurance claims or when you sell your home.
Watch for scare tactics
Be cautious if a technician on a routine visit insists your whole system must be replaced immediately, or says your furnace has a cracked heat exchanger without showing you evidence. Ask to see the problem and get the diagnosis in writing. For a big decision, it is reasonable to get a second opinion.
What it typically costs
These are typical US price ranges, and actual costs vary with your home, your equipment and local labor rates.
Nights, weekends and holidays usually cost more, and some companies apply the fee toward the repair.
Parts and labor time drive the price, and refrigerant leaks or compressor failures can cost much more.
Many companies offer yearly maintenance plans that bundle a heating and a cooling tune-up.
System size, efficiency rating, brand and any ductwork changes move the price the most.
Common questions
How often should I service my HVAC system?
Most manufacturers and contractors recommend a professional tune-up once a year for each system, usually the furnace in the fall and the air conditioner in the spring. Regular maintenance can catch small problems before they turn into breakdowns. Check your warranty too, because some require proof of yearly service.
How long does an HVAC system last?
Many air conditioners and heat pumps last about 10 to 15 years, and furnaces often last 15 to 20 years, depending on use and maintenance. If your system is near that age and needs a costly repair, it may be worth getting a replacement quote to compare.
Should I repair or replace my air conditioner?
Repair usually makes sense when the system is fairly young and the fix is minor, while replacement is worth considering when the unit is older, needs frequent repairs or uses an outdated refrigerant. Ask the contractor for written prices on both options so you can compare them side by side.
What should I do if my heat or air stops working?
Check the simple things first, such as the thermostat setting and batteries, the circuit breaker, and whether the air filter is clogged. If those look fine, turn the system off and call a technician. If you smell gas, leave the house right away and call your gas company or 911 from outside.
How do I find a good HVAC company in your area?
Start with the HVAC companies listed on this page for your area, then check each one's license and insurance. Read recent reviews, ask neighbors who they use, and get written quotes from at least two or three companies for any large job. Choose a company that explains the problem clearly and puts the price in writing.
What does SEER mean on an air conditioner?
SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, and it measures how efficiently an air conditioner or heat pump cools over a typical season. A higher number means more efficient equipment, which usually costs more upfront but can lower your energy bills. Newer equipment is rated under an updated scale called SEER2, so make sure you compare the same scale across quotes.