Page 2 of 4 • Expert insights on HVAC systems, installation, repair, and energy efficiency in the Bay Area
Your heat pump entering defrost mode is totally normal.
30% off heat pumps, up to $2,000. Don't wait past 2025.
Brand isn't as important as proper installation.
Banging, screeching, or rattling means something's wrong.
Galaxy's favorite HVAC setup combines ductless and ducted Mitsubishi units on one system. Perfect for Bay Area 2-story homes with superior zoning and comfort control.
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.
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.
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.
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?
Shopping for a new HVAC system in the Bay Area can feel like alphabet soup: SEER2, HSPF2, AFUE, plus the old SEER/HSPF numbers.
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'.
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?
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Not all HVAC quotes are created equal. Learn how to break down line items and compare quotes fairly.
Before installing a heat pump, check if your electrical panel can handle it. Here's your pre-installation checklist.
Should you keep your gas furnace as backup, or go fully electric? Here's how to decide for Bay Area homes.
What's changing with refrigerants, what it means for new installs and repairs, and how to think about timing your upgrade.