HVAC FAQ

Your system size depends on your home's square footage, insulation quality, window placement, and Sacramento County's extreme temperature swings. An undersized system will struggle during our 100+ degree summers and run constantly. An oversized system wastes energy and creates humidity problems. We calculate the exact load requirements for your specific home to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency year-round.

Simple repairs typically take 30-60 minutes, while major component replacements can take 2-4 hours. Most Sacramento HVAC companies charge around $99 for diagnostics, which usually applies toward repair costs. We believe in upfront pricing—you'll know exactly what you're paying before any work begins. Emergency repairs during Sacramento's peak summer heat may include after-hours fees.

Start with your air filter—a dirty filter is the number one cause of cooling problems. Next, check that your outdoor unit isn't clogged with debris, leaves, or Sacramento's notorious cottonwood fluff. Make sure all vents are open and unblocked. If these don't solve it, you likely have refrigerant leaks, compressor issues, or ductwork problems that need professional attention.

Expect 15-20 years from a quality system with proper maintenance in Sacramento County. Our extreme summer heat and temperature fluctuations can stress equipment, but regular tune-ups significantly extend system life. If your system is approaching 15 years and needs frequent repairs, replacement often saves money long-term, especially with 2025 price increases on the horizon.

Maintenance is like a physical for your HVAC system—we service it when it's working to prevent problems. We clean components, check refrigerant levels, test safety controls, and optimize performance. Repair addresses specific problems when something's broken. Sacramento's harsh summers make preventive maintenance crucial—it's much cheaper than emergency repairs during a heat wave.