Page 3 of 4 • Expert insights on HVAC systems, installation, repair, and energy efficiency in the Bay Area
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
They don't work in cold weather, they're too expensive to run - let's separate fact from fiction for Bay Area homeowners.
Options for small spaces: ductless vs small ducted vs shared systems, pros/cons for landlords.
Longer run times are normal and efficient. Learn when it's working as designed vs when there's a problem.
Step-by-step guide to replacing HVAC filters, choosing the right MERV rating, and improving air quality.
Prepare your system for seasonal changes with professional tips for maintaining peak efficiency.
Complete guide to federal, state, and local incentives for HVAC upgrades in the Bay Area.
What to expect, how to prepare your home, and timeline for system replacement.
Compare for different Bay Area home types: older bungalows, Eichlers, townhomes, ADUs, condos.
Defrost mode vs true icing problems; simple DIY checks before calling.
When to choose ductless systems, installation requirements, and cost-benefit analysis.
What these efficiency numbers mean and how they impact your energy bills.