Q & A
Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.
What is the most common type of heating system?
The most common type of home heating system is a forced-air heating and cooling system. This type of heater involves a furnace, which is commonly powered by natural gas, forcing air through a series of ducts that distribute the hot air through different rooms in a house. Furnaces can run on other types of fuel, including electricity, propane and oil. This type of heating system is quite popular because it doubles as a path for air conditioning in the summer.
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 serviceto find out what the problem is — and how much it will cost to fix it.
What is the most efficient heating system for a house?
Geothermal heating tends to be the most efficient way to heat a house when compared to traditional HVAC systems, according to theU.S. Department of Energy. Geothermal heat pumps (also called ground-source heat pumps) transfer energy to and from the ground to supply heat, cool air and hot water.
Note that one of the most important ways to boost efficiency,save electricityand lower your heating bills is to make sure your house is weather-tight and well-insulated.
How much does it cost to install a heating system?
The cost of a heating system depends largely on the type and size of the heating system. For example:
- Ageothermal heating and cooling system costsabout $15,000 and ranges from $7,000 to $30,000.
- Electric radiant floor heating costsbetween $9,000 and $20,000 for a 1,600-square-foot home.
- AnHVAC heating and cooling system costsaround $3,000, with a range between $400 and $6,000.
- Heat pumps cost$1,780 to $3,630 to install.
- Andfurnace pricesrange from approximately $700 to $3,000.
To find out how much your new heating system will cost, contact heating and air companies near you and ask for free cost estimates.
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 long does it take to install a new heating system?
A new heating system generally takes a few days to install. Jobs that require new ductwork will take more time. And switching to a different type of heat fuel — propane, natural gas, oil or electricity — may require longer installation times as well, as they could require routing piping, regulators and other adjustments to your home.
When should you replace a heating system?
The better care you take of your heating system, the longer it will last. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors estimates the following lifespans for heating systems:
- Heat exchanger: 10-15 years
- Heat pump: 10-15 years
- Furnace: 15-25 years
- Electric radiant heater: 40 years
If your heating system is broken, hire a contractor or a repair service to take a look at it. They can help you determine if it makes financial sense to replace your system or spend money on repairs. The good news is that replacing your old furnace will give you the opportunity to take advantage of newer, more efficient furnaces that can save you money on heating bills from the first cycle.
How does a hot water baseboard heating system work?
In a hot water baseboard heating system, a boiler heats water and then the water passes through the system’s pipes and into the baseboard radiators in your home. Baseboard heating systems are generally quiet, and you’ll experience less heat loss when compared to a forced-air system. However, you can’t use radiant basem*nt heating for cooling purposes.
Reviews for Los Angeles hvac contractors
Abby S.
Amazing guy. So quick to help us out of a bad situation. Our last HVAC guy hacked our system and even stole pets because of our contractor. Greenway came to the rescue. 100% reliable and fair. I’m already enjoying our AC.
Karen L.
Not only were they prompt, they addressed the issues I asked to be addressed. The technician gave me an actual quote on the spot instead of a we’ll see once we begin work runaround. I received a quote from another company that was 10x more for a system “overhaul” they insisted would be more appropriate even though all I needed was for the drainage line to be flushed and the refrigerant to be topped up. It’s hard to find transparent and competent contractors like Highway HVAC. Finally a HVAC technician I can recommend.
Anthony P.
1st of all this team has a rare quality that is not normally found when dealing with contractors, and this is integrity! Be a home owner that likes to save money on repairs, I often choose to do them myself via troubleshooting shooting and diagnostics. I’m telling this story because I knew exactly what the problem was with my HVAC unit, but only spoke about it not cooling just to see how technician would handle my call. Technician was super honest, worked clean, and was reasonably priced!I liked this team so much that I’m having them scheduled for an installation at another property!
Kerensa S.
It has been a challenge in my experience to find responsive and knowledgeable services -- especially in the last couple years. I called 6 companies for a ductless AC quote: 3 responded but Dan was available by text and calls to answer all questions and provide an estimate. He explained options for price point, reliability, and warranty. When I agreed to the order, he scheduled the work within 1 week. ONE WEEK!! the other companies took 1 week to respond to calls and scheduling estimates 3-4 weeks out. Two condensers and 2 air handlers were installed within 7 hours including installation of breakers and running new electricity outside. It is an expensive project that needs to be completed by licensed contractors -- not much wiggle room on prices, which is why QUALITY, professionalism, and responsiveness matter!! I will call Dan's ACH in a heartbeat for electrical or HVAC needs -- 5STARS!!
Ready to find a pro?
See more reviews, compare prices, and hire your favorite pros all with Thumbtack.
