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HVAC Blog, Tips & Expert Advice

Expert insights on HVAC systems, installation, repair, and energy efficiency in the Bay Area

Blog November 2025

Gas Furnace Bans, New Refrigerants & Future-Proofing Your HVAC System

Regulations are changing constantly. Will my system become obsolete?

Blog November 2025

Electronic Air Cleaners vs Regular Filters

Which is better for Bay Area homes with smoke and pollen?

Blog November 2025

Ductwork in Bay Area Homes – Repair, Seal or Replace?

Your ducts are the veins and arteries of your HVAC system. Don't ignore them.

Blog November 2025

Are Heat Pumps Worth It in the Bay Area?

For most Bay Area homes, heat pumps are absolutely worth it.

Blog November 2025

Best Thermostats for Heat Pumps, Furnaces & Ductless Systems

Not every thermostat works with every system. Choose wisely.

Blog November 2025

Best MERV Rating for Bay Area Furnaces & Heat Pumps

MERV 11 is the sweet spot for most homes. Avoid going too high.

Blog November 2025

Annual HVAC Maintenance Checklist for Bay Area Homes

Your system works year-round. Professional maintenance prevents breakdowns.

Blog November 2025

Air Filters 101: MERV Ratings, Filter Thickness

1" vs 2" vs 4" filters explained with Bay Area recommendations.

Blog November 2025

AC Running But Not Cooling? Most Common Causes

System is running but air isn't cold. Here's why and what to do.

Blog November 2025

Why We Love Mitsubishi Ductless Systems

As Mitsubishi Diamond Elite contractors, here's why we recommend them.

Blog November 2025

Gas Furnace, Heat Pump, or Dual-Fuel?

Choosing the right system depends on your situation.

Blog November 2025

Heat Pump vs Furnace: Which Is Better for 2025?

Efficiency, comfort, cost, and lifespan compared.

Blog November 2025

DIY Furnace Maintenance Guide for Bay Area Homeowners

Simple steps to keep your system running efficiently.

Blog November 2025

What MERV Air Filter Is Best for Bay Area Homes?

Air quality affects health and HVAC performance.

Blog November 2025

Heat Pump Defrost Mode: What's Normal

Your heat pump entering defrost mode is totally normal.

Blog November 2025

2025 Federal Heat Pump Tax Credit Is Ending

30% off heat pumps, up to $2,000. Don't wait past 2025.

Blog November 2025

Why Proper HVAC Commissioning Matters More Than Brand

Brand isn't as important as proper installation.

Blog November 2025

Unusual Furnace Sounds: Should You Be Worried?

Banging, screeching, or rattling means something's wrong.

How-To Guides January 2025

How to Compare HVAC Quotes (Apples to Apples)

Not all HVAC quotes are created equal. Learn how to break down line items and compare quotes fairly.

How-To Guides January 2025

Is Your Electrical Panel Ready for a Heat Pump?

Before installing a heat pump, check if your electrical panel can handle it. Here's your pre-installation checklist.

System Comparisons January 2025

Dual Fuel vs All-Electric Heat Pump Systems

Should you keep your gas furnace as backup, or go fully electric? Here's how to decide for Bay Area homes.

System Comparisons January 2025

Single-Stage vs Two-Stage vs Variable-Speed HVAC: What's the Difference?

Understand the comfort, noise, and efficiency differences between these three HVAC technologies.

Education & Learning January 2025

2025 Refrigerant Changes: R-410A vs R-454B (Bay Area Homeowner Guide)

What's changing with refrigerants, what it means for new installs and repairs, and how to think about timing your upgrade.

Education & Learning January 2025

Heat Pump Myths for the Bay Area (Debunked)

They don't work in cold weather, they're too expensive to run - let's separate fact from fiction for Bay Area homeowners.

How-To Guides January 2025

How to Plan HVAC for an ADU or Rental Unit

Options for small spaces: ductless vs small ducted vs shared systems, pros/cons for landlords.

Troubleshooting Guides January 2025

Why Is My Heat Pump Running All the Time?

Longer run times are normal and efficient. Learn when it's working as designed vs when there's a problem.

Maintenance Guides January 2025

How to Change Your Air Filter

Step-by-step guide to replacing HVAC filters, choosing the right MERV rating, and improving air quality.

Maintenance Guides January 2025

Spring & Fall HVAC Prep: Season Your System

Prepare your system for seasonal changes with professional tips for maintaining peak efficiency.

How-To Guides January 2025

How to Maximize Your HVAC Tax Credits & Rebates (2025)

Complete guide to federal, state, and local incentives for HVAC upgrades in the Bay Area.

How-To Guides January 2025

How to Prepare for HVAC Installation: Contractor Checklist

What to expect, how to prepare your home, and timeline for system replacement.

System Comparisons January 2025

Ducted vs Ductless vs Hybrid HVAC Systems

Compare for different Bay Area home types: older bungalows, Eichlers, townhomes, ADUs, condos.

Troubleshooting Guides January 2025

Ice on My Heat Pump or AC: What's Normal, What's Not

Defrost mode vs true icing problems; simple DIY checks before calling.

System Comparisons January 2025

Ductless Mini-Splits vs Central AC Systems

When to choose ductless systems, installation requirements, and cost-benefit analysis.

Education & Learning January 2025

Understanding SEER & AFUE Ratings

What these efficiency numbers mean and how they impact your energy bills.

Education & Learning January 2025

Bay Area Microclimates & HVAC: What Your Location Means

How San Francisco, Oakland, inland valleys, and South Bay climates affect system sizing and selection.

Education & Learning January 2025

Smart Thermostat Guide: Benefits, Compatibility & Savings

Benefits, compatibility, integration with smart home systems, and cost savings.

How-To Guides January 2025

How to Find a Reliable, Licensed Furnace Repair Company in San Francisco

San Francisco's unique climate and housing create specific furnace challenges. Learn how to find a trustworthy HVAC contractor and what questions to ask before booking.

Troubleshooting January 2025

Common Furnace Problems in Older San Francisco Homes: Urgency Guide

Victorian and Edwardian homes have unique heating challenges. Learn which furnace problems need immediate attention and which can wait—plus what each repair typically costs.

Heat Pumps January 2025

Heat Pump vs Gas Furnace + AC in Walnut Creek: Complete Cost Comparison

Walnut Creek's hot summers and mild winters make it ideal for heat pumps. Compare installation costs, energy savings, and performance to decide which system is right for your home.

Local Services December 2024

HVAC Services in Pleasant Hill, CA: Your Complete Guide (2025)

Complete guide to heating, cooling, and HVAC services in Pleasant Hill. Learn about local climate challenges, energy-efficient systems, and choosing the right contractor.

Local Services December 2024

HVAC Services in Oakland, CA: Complete 2025 Guide

Oakland HVAC guide covering heating, cooling, and air quality for Oakland homes. Navigate microclimates, fog, heat waves, and wildfire smoke with the right system.

Local Services December 2024

HVAC Services in San Francisco, CA: Complete 2025 Guide

San Francisco HVAC guide for fog, microclimates, and Victorian homes. Expert heating, cooling, and air quality solutions for SF neighborhoods.

Local Services December 2024

HVAC Services in Walnut Creek, CA: Your 2025 Guide

Complete Walnut Creek HVAC guide covering heating, cooling, and air quality for Walnut Creek homes. Expert local climate solutions.

Local Services December 2024

HVAC Services in Berkeley, CA: Complete 2025 Guide

Berkeley HVAC guide for hills microclimates, eco-friendly systems, and UC Berkeley area. Expert heating, cooling, and sustainability solutions.

Local Services January 2025

HVAC Services in Concord, CA: Complete 2025 Guide

Complete Concord HVAC guide covering heating, cooling, and energy efficiency for Concord homes. Expert solutions for hot summers and mild winters.

Local Services January 2025

HVAC Services in Richmond, CA: Complete 2025 Guide

Richmond HVAC guide covering heating, cooling, and air quality for Richmond homes. Navigate coastal weather, diverse neighborhoods, and industrial air quality challenges.

Local Services January 2025

HVAC Services in Fremont, CA: Complete 2025 Guide

Fremont HVAC guide covering heating, cooling, and energy efficiency. Expert solutions for diverse neighborhoods from Niles to Warm Springs.

Local Services January 2025

HVAC Services in Hayward, CA: Complete 2025 Guide

Hayward HVAC guide covering heating, cooling, and air quality. Expert solutions for diverse housing from downtown to the hills.

Local Services January 2025

HVAC Services in Livermore, CA: Complete 2025 Guide

Livermore HVAC guide for hot valley climate. Expert cooling, heating, and energy efficiency solutions for Livermore homes.

Blog November 2025

Best Gas Furnace Brands for 2025–2026: What's the best furnace brand to buy right now?

If your furnace is getting noisy, struggling to keep up, or creeping past that 15–20 year mark, you're probably asking the big question: What's the best furnace brand to buy right now? In 2025–2026, choosing a new gas furnace isn't just about grabbing a familiar name and hoping for the best.

Blog November 2025

Why HVAC Quotes Vary So Much – And How to Compare Them

When you start shopping for a new heating and cooling system, it's normal to feel confused — and sometimes shocked — by how far apart different HVAC quotes can be.

Blog November 2025

When Your Furnace Kicks On and the Smoke Alarm Starts Screaming

Sometimes the cause is harmless dust burning off after your system's been idle. Other times, it's a sign of overheating, wiring issues, or actual smoke that needs urgent attention.

Blog November 2025

What Lasts Longer – Gas Furnace or Heat Pump with Air Handler?

If you're planning a major HVAC upgrade, you're probably thinking long-term: What's going to last longer – a traditional gas furnace or a heat pump with air handler?

Blog November 2025

Understanding SEER2, HSPF2 & AFUE – Which Ratings Matter for Rebates?

Shopping for a new HVAC system in the Bay Area can feel like alphabet soup: SEER2, HSPF2, AFUE, plus the old SEER/HSPF numbers.

Blog November 2025

Ultimate HVAC System Cost Guide for Bay Area Homes (2025)

If you've started calling around for HVAC estimates, you've probably noticed something confusing: One company says 'around low five figures', another is closer to 'upper five figures'.

Blog November 2025

HVAC Financing Options for Bay Area Homeowners (Including GoGreen Financing)

A new HVAC system isn't like buying a toaster. It's more like buying an appliance + a small renovation + an energy upgrade all rolled into one. For many Bay Area homeowners, that leads to one big question: How do I actually pay for this?

Blog November 2025

How to Fix Hot and Cold Rooms in Your Bay Area Home

Every Bay Area homeowner seems to have that one room: You bump the thermostat up, and one room finally feels okay… while the rest of the house turns into an oven.

Blog November 2025

Galaxy's Guide to Mitsubishi Ductless – Our Specialty in the Bay Area

If you've talked to Galaxy for more than about five minutes, there's a good chance Mitsubishi ductless came up. That's not an accident. And as a Mitsubishi Diamond Elite contractor, ductless isn't just something we also do — it's one of our core specialties.

Blog November 2025

Gas Furnace vs Heat Pump vs Dual Fuel in the Bay Area – What's Best in 2025 and 2026?

If your HVAC system is getting old or you're planning a major upgrade, you've probably hit the big question: Should I install a gas furnace, an all-electric heat pump, or a dual fuel system?

Blog November 2025

When to Replace Your HVAC System: 7 Warning Signs Bay Area Homeowners Shouldn't Ignore

Your HVAC system doesn't last forever. While regular maintenance can extend its life, every furnace, heat pump, and AC unit eventually reaches the end of the road. Catching the warning signs early can save you from an emergency breakdown in the middle of a heat wave or cold snap.

Blog November 2025

Do Heat Pumps Work in Cold Weather? Bay Area Winter Performance Guide

One of the most common questions we hear: Do heat pumps actually work when it gets cold? It's a fair concern—especially if you've heard horror stories from friends in Minnesota or Vermont. But here's the truth for Bay Area homeowners: modern heat pumps work exceptionally well in our climate.

Blog November 2025

Ductless Mini-Split vs Central AC: Which is Better for Your Bay Area Home?

Choosing between a ductless mini-split and traditional central AC isn't just about cooling—it's about comfort, efficiency, installation complexity, and your home's unique characteristics. Both systems have strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends on your specific situation.

Blog November 2025

Heat Pump vs Gas Furnace Operating Costs in California: Complete 2025 Cost Analysis

Everyone wants to know the bottom line: What will it actually cost to heat my home each month? With California's push toward electrification, rising PG&E rates, and generous heat pump rebates, the answer isn't as simple as 'gas is always cheaper.' Let's break down the real numbers for Bay Area homeowners.

Blog November 2025

Best HVAC Systems for Bay Area Microclimates: SF vs East Bay vs Peninsula vs South Bay

The Bay Area isn't just one climate—it's dozens of microclimates packed into a small geographic area. You can have 65°F fog in San Francisco, 85°F sunshine in Walnut Creek, and 75°F in San Jose—all at the same time. This means HVAC needs vary dramatically just a few miles apart.

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