When your AC is installed right the first time, you get consistent temperatures in every room. No more hot spots upstairs or freezing cold downstairs. No more sky-high energy bills from an oversized unit running constantly.
You sleep better knowing your system won’t quit when temperatures hit triple digits. Your family stays comfortable during those brutal Sacramento Valley heat waves that can last for weeks.
The right installation means fewer repair calls, lower monthly bills, and equipment that actually lasts as long as it’s supposed to. That’s what happens when experienced technicians handle the job from start to finish.
Hot & Cold HVAC has been keeping homes comfortable in the Sacramento Delta for years. We understand what it’s like when your AC goes out in July and it’s 105 degrees outside.
This isn’t just another job for us. We live here too. We know how the heat builds up in these older homes and how the Delta breeze patterns affect cooling loads.
When you call us, you’re working with contractors who’ve installed hundreds of systems in this area. We know which equipment performs best in our climate and which installation techniques prevent the problems that show up two years down the road.
First, we calculate the exact cooling load for your home. Not a quick guess based on square footage, but a real load calculation that accounts for insulation, windows, and how your house sits on the lot.
Then we recommend the right size system. Most contractors go too big because they think bigger is better. We size it correctly so you get even temperatures and lower operating costs.
Installation day starts with protecting your floors and belongings. We run new electrical if needed, install the outdoor unit on a proper pad, and make sure all refrigerant lines are properly insulated. Before we leave, we test everything and show you how to operate your new system.
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Every installation includes proper electrical connections, refrigerant line installation, and condensate drainage. We pull permits when required and make sure everything meets local building codes.
For ductless mini split systems, we carefully plan the indoor unit placement to maximize airflow and minimize noise. The outdoor unit gets positioned where it won’t disturb neighbors but still allows proper airflow for efficient operation.
In Locke’s agricultural setting, we pay special attention to protecting equipment from dust and debris. We also consider the Delta’s humidity patterns when setting up condensate drainage to prevent water damage issues that are common in this area.
Most residential AC installations take one full day, but it depends on your specific situation. A straightforward replacement where we’re using existing electrical and ductwork usually takes 6-8 hours.
If we need to run new electrical lines or modify ductwork, it might take two days. Mini split installations are often faster since there’s no ductwork involved.
We’ll give you a realistic timeline during our initial assessment. Weather can be a factor too – we won’t rush an installation just to beat the heat if it means compromising quality.
The right size depends on much more than square footage. We calculate cooling load based on your home’s insulation, window placement, ceiling height, and how the building sits relative to sun exposure.
In Locke’s climate, most homes need between 2-5 tons of cooling capacity. A 1,500 square foot home might need a 3-ton unit, but we’ve seen cases where the same size house needed a 2.5-ton or 4-ton unit depending on these other factors.
Oversized units cycle on and off too frequently, which wastes energy and doesn’t remove humidity properly. Undersized units run constantly and never quite catch up. Getting the size right is critical for comfort and efficiency.
It depends on your home’s layout and existing infrastructure. If you already have ductwork in good condition, central AC is usually the most cost-effective option.
Mini splits work well for homes without existing ducts, room additions, or when you want different temperature zones. They’re also good for older homes where adding ductwork would be difficult or expensive.
In Locke’s agricultural area, mini splits can be advantageous because they don’t pull in outside air like some central systems do. This means less dust and allergens from farming operations nearby.
Installation costs vary based on system type, home size, and complexity of the job. A basic central AC replacement typically runs $4,000-$8,000 including equipment and labor.
Mini split systems range from $3,000-$12,000 depending on how many indoor units you need. If electrical upgrades are required, add another $500-$2,000 to the total.
We provide detailed written estimates that break down equipment costs, labor, permits, and any additional work needed. No surprises or hidden fees after we start the job.
We install equipment from several major manufacturers including Carrier, Bryant, and other reliable brands. The key is matching the right equipment to your specific needs and budget.
All the brands we work with offer solid warranties and have good parts availability. We focus more on proper installation than pushing any particular brand – even the best equipment won’t perform well if it’s installed incorrectly.
We’ll explain the differences between options and help you choose based on your priorities, whether that’s maximum efficiency, lowest upfront cost, or longest warranty coverage.
Yes, we handle all necessary permits for your installation. In Sacramento County, most AC replacements require permits, especially if electrical work is involved.
We know the local requirements and have established relationships with the permitting office. This saves you time and ensures everything is done according to code.
The permit process typically adds 1-2 days to the project timeline, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind. Unpermitted work can cause problems when you sell your home or file insurance claims.
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