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Common Questions About HVAC Systems, Installation, Repair & Maintenance in the Bay Area
We recommend professional maintenance at least twice a year-once before the heating season and once before the cooling season. Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns, improves efficiency by 15-25%, and extends your system's lifespan. During a maintenance visit, our technicians inspect all components, clean coils, check refrigerant levels, test safety controls, and identify potential issues before they become expensive repairs.
Correct sizing requires a professional Manual J load calculation - not just square footage. We evaluate your home's insulation, window quality, ceiling height, local microclimate, ductwork design, and other factors. An oversized system wastes energy and short-cycles, while an undersized system runs constantly. Our technicians perform detailed calculations to ensure your system is sized perfectly for optimal comfort and efficiency.
With proper maintenance, gas furnaces typically last 15-20 years, central air conditioners 12-15 years, and heat pumps 10-15 years. Ductless mini splits often last 12-20 years. Factors that affect lifespan include installation quality, regular maintenance, filter changes, usage patterns, and Bay Area coastal conditions. Well-maintained systems from quality brands like American Standard, Carrier, Lennox, and Mitsubishi consistently outlast neglected equipment.
We follow the 50% rule: if repair costs exceed 50% of a new system's price and your equipment is over 10-12 years old, replacement usually makes more financial sense. Also consider replacement if you're experiencing frequent breakdowns, rising energy bills, uneven temperatures, excessive noise, or if your system uses obsolete R-22 refrigerant. We'll always provide honest recommendations based on your specific situation and budget.
A furnace generates heat by burning gas or using electric resistance, while a heat pump transfers heat from outdoor air into your home (and reverses in summer for cooling). Heat pumps are 2-3x more energy-efficient in the Bay Area's mild climate and provide both heating and cooling in one system. Furnaces provide warmer air output but consume more energy. Many Bay Area homeowners are switching to heat pumps for lower operating costs and environmental benefits.
Increasingly, yes. While the Bay Area was traditionally mild, climate patterns have shifted. Inland areas like Walnut Creek, Concord, and Pleasanton regularly see 90-100°F+ summers. Even cooler areas experience heat waves and wildfire smoke events when keeping windows closed is essential. Central AC or a heat pump dramatically improves comfort, sleep quality, and indoor air quality compared to window units or no cooling at all.
AC installation costs typically range from $5,000 to $12,000 depending on system type (standard AC vs heat pump), efficiency level (14-21 SEER), home size, ductwork condition, electrical upgrades needed, and installation complexity. We provide detailed, upfront estimates with no hidden fees. Every installation includes proper sizing calculations, quality workmanship, and comprehensive warranties.
Most standard AC replacements (swapping existing equipment with new) take one full day. New installations without existing ductwork can take 2-3 days. Timeline depends on ductwork modifications needed, electrical panel upgrades, accessibility challenges, and system complexity. We'll provide a clear timeline during your estimate so you can plan accordingly.
We install premium brands including American Standard, Carrier, Lennox, and Mitsubishi. These manufacturers offer excellent reliability, efficiency, warranty coverage, and parts availability. We focus on proper system design and quality installation-which matters more than brand name alone. We'll recommend specific models based on your home's needs, budget, and long - term comfort goals.
Not always, but it's often the smart choice. If your furnace is over 10 years old, replacing both at once saves on installation labor and ensures compatible, matched components for optimal efficiency. If your furnace is relatively new (under 8 years) and in good condition, we can often match a new AC to your existing furnace. We'll assess your furnace and provide honest recommendations.
Higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) means lower operating costs. In the Bay Area, we typically recommend 16-18 SEER for excellent efficiency and value. Premium 20+ SEER systems offer maximum savings but cost more upfront. The right choice depends on your usage patterns, utility rates, how long you plan to stay in your home, and budget. We'll calculate your expected savings at different efficiency levels.
Many older Bay Area homes need electrical upgrades when installing modern high-efficiency AC or heat pump systems. This might include a dedicated 240V circuit, panel upgrades, or disconnect switch installation. We evaluate your electrical system during the estimate and include any necessary upgrades in our quote so there are no surprises.
Furnace installation in the Bay Area typically ranges from $7,000 to $10,000 depending on efficiency level and features like single-stage, two-stage, variable-speed, or modulating gas valves. Price includes the furnace, labor, materials, permits, and Title 24 compliance. High-efficiency models cost more upfront but save significantly on gas bills over their 15-20 year lifespan-especially important with PG&E's rising rates. Ask about available Bay Area city rebates and the $2,000 federal tax credit (ending this year). We're always running special promotions and deals.
95%+ AFUE high-efficiency furnaces cost $1,500-$2,500 more upfront but typically save $200-400 per year on gas bills. They pay for themselves in 4-8 years and continue saving money for years afterward. High-efficiency furnaces are ideal for homes with high heating usage. Standard 80% AFUE furnaces make sense for moderate climates or lower usage patterns. We'll calculate your specific payback based on your usage.
Absolutely! Switching from a gas furnace to a heat pump is increasingly popular in the Bay Area. Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, eliminate gas usage, and can be 2-3x more energy-efficient in our mild climate. Federal tax credits up to $2,000 plus local rebates make the switch more affordable. We'll compare costs, savings, and comfort for both options so you can make an informed decision.
Most furnace replacements take 6 - 8 hours for a standard swap. New installations or complex situations (ductwork modifications, gas line work, electrical upgrades, difficult access) may take 1-2 days. We work efficiently while maintaining quality standards and always clean up thoroughly. You'll have heat the same day for most standard replacements.
Yes, furnace replacement requires permits in most Bay Area cities. We handle all permitting and inspections as part of our service-it's included in your installation cost. Permits ensure your installation meets safety codes and building requirements. Attempting unpermitted work can create liability issues and problems when selling your home.
We remove and properly dispose of your old furnace at no additional charge. We haul it away the same day as installation and recycle components according to environmental regulations. Your installation quote includes complete removal and disposal - no surprise fees.
Absolutely! Modern heat pumps excel in Bay Area winters. Our typical winter lows (38-50°F) are exactly where heat pumps operate at peak efficiency (250-350% efficiency). Even during rare cold snaps to 30-35°F, today's variable-speed heat pumps maintain full heating capacity. We've installed hundreds across Oakland, Berkeley, Walnut Creek, and San Jose with zero complaints about winter heating performance.
Ducted heat pump installation typically costs $15,000-$20,000 depending on equipment brand, efficiency, model, and features. Price includes the heat pump, air handler, lineset, electrical line, labor, permits, and Title 24 compliance. This is often comparable to or less than installing both a furnace AND AC separately. Federal tax credit ($2,000, ending this year) and Bay Area city rebates (varying by location) can significantly reduce your net cost while providing both heating and cooling. We're always running special promotions and deals.
Yes! Heat pumps ARE air conditioners - they use identical cooling technology. Premium heat pumps often cool better than basic AC units because they feature variable-speed compressors and advanced controls. During extreme heat waves when temperatures exceed 100°F+, our Carrier and Mitsubishi heat pump installations perform flawlessly, often outperforming single-stage AC units.
Bay Area homeowners can access significant incentives: Federal tax credit of $2,000 (ending this year), TECH Clean California rebates up to $4,000 for income-qualified homeowners, and local utility rebates varying by Bay Area city. Additional incentives may be available for electric panel upgrades. We're always running special promotions and deals, and we help you identify and apply for all available rebates to maximize your savings.
Yes, especially in the Bay Area. Heat pumps can be 2-3x more energy-efficient than gas furnaces in our mild climate. With PG&E's rising gas rates and stable electric rates (especially with solar), many homeowners save $500-$1,200 annually on energy costs after switching. Savings vary based on your specific usage, rates, and system efficiency.
For most Bay Area homes, no. Modern heat pumps provide reliable heating even on the coldest nights we experience. Dual fuel systems (heat pump + furnace backup) add cost and complexity without meaningful benefit in our climate. However, if you live in the coldest inland areas or have specific concerns, we can discuss hybrid options.
Ductless mini splits are ideal for homes without existing ductwork, room additions and ADUs, problem rooms that central HVAC never serves well, when you want zone control for different temperatures in different rooms, and older homes where adding ducts would damage architecture. Mini splits offer precise room-by-room control and exceptional efficiency (often 20+ SEER).
Single-zone ductless heat pump systems cost $8,000-$10,000 installed, depending on model, capacity, lineset length, and electrical work required. Multi-zone systems vary by number of indoor units and unit types-for example, a 3-zone system typically costs $18,000-$20,000 including everything (ceiling cassettes cost more than wall-mounted units). Costs include equipment, installation, electrical work, permits, and Title 24 compliance. Federal tax credit ($2,000, ending this year) and Bay Area rebates can significantly reduce your net cost.
Modern mini splits are remarkably quiet. Indoor units operate at 19-25 decibels (quieter than a library), and outdoor units are comparable to or quieter than traditional AC condensers. Premium Carrier and Mitsubishi mini splits feature whisper mode for near-silent nighttime operation. You'll barely know they're running.
Today's mini splits are sleek, compact, and designed to blend into modern interiors. Wall-mounted units are about the size of a large picture frame. We offer ceiling cassettes and floor-mounted options for different aesthetic preferences. Most homeowners find them far less obtrusive than bulky window units, and the comfort and efficiency benefits far outweigh any aesthetic concerns.
Yes! This is one of mini splits' biggest advantages. Each indoor unit has its own thermostat and operates independently. You can keep bedrooms cool at night while leaving living areas warmer, or heat a home office during the day without conditioning the whole house. This zone control saves significant energy and maximizes comfort.
Mini splits are typically 20-30% more efficient than standard central AC systems. Premium models achieve 20-30+ SEER ratings vs 14-16 SEER for basic central AC. Their efficiency comes from variable-speed compressors, no duct losses, and the ability to condition only occupied rooms. Many Bay Area homeowners save $300-$600 annually on cooling costs after switching to mini splits.
Our comprehensive maintenance includes: complete system inspection, cleaning of coils and components, refrigerant level check and adjustment, testing of all safety controls, electrical connection inspection, thermostat calibration, filter replacement, ductwork inspection, combustion analysis (furnaces), and detailed performance report. We identify potential issues before they become expensive repairs.
Repair costs vary widely: $150-$400 for minor fixes (capacitor, contactor, thermostat), $400-$1,200 for moderate repairs (blower motor, circuit board), and $1,500-$3,500 for major repairs (compressor, heat exchanger). We provide upfront pricing before starting any work so you can make informed decisions. Sometimes replacement makes more financial sense than expensive repairs on old equipment.
Yes! We provide 24/7 emergency service throughout the Bay Area, including holidays and weekends. A live person always answers your call - no answering machines. We dispatch qualified technicians as quickly as possible, typically within hours for urgent heating or cooling failures. Emergency service receives the same upfront pricing and quality standards as scheduled work.
Common causes include dirty air filters restricting airflow, low refrigerant from leaks, frozen evaporator coils from airflow issues, failed capacitor or compressor, dirty condenser coils blocking heat transfer, or thermostat problems. Our technicians diagnose the exact cause and explain your repair options with transparent pricing before proceeding with any work.
Possible causes include thermostat set to 'fan only' mode, pilot light or ignition failure, failed flame sensor, gas supply issues, dirty flame sensor, or failed limit switch. Some issues are simple fixes; others require professional repair. We diagnose the problem, explain what's wrong in plain language, and provide upfront pricing for repairs.
Standard 1-inch filters should be changed every 1-3 months depending on usage, pets, allergies, and air quality. Thicker 4-5 inch filters last 6-12 months. During high-use seasons (summer cooling, winter heating) or poor air quality (wildfire smoke), check monthly. Dirty filters reduce efficiency, increase energy costs, and can damage your system.
Most effective strategies: upgrade to a high-efficiency system (16+ SEER AC, 95%+ AFUE furnace, or heat pump), maintain your system regularly (15-25% efficiency improvement), seal ductwork (20-30% energy waste from leaks), improve insulation and air sealing, install a smart thermostat (10-15% savings), and replace filters regularly. We offer free energy assessments to identify your biggest savings opportunities.
Bay Area homeowners can access: Federal tax credit of $2,000 for heat pumps and high-efficiency equipment (ending this year), TECH Clean California rebates up to $4,000 for heat pump installations, PG&E and local utility rebates varying by Bay Area city for qualifying equipment, electric panel upgrade incentives, and weatherization rebates. We're always running special promotions and deals. We help identify all available incentives to maximize your savings.
Yes! Smart thermostats typically save 10-15% on energy costs and pay for themselves within 1-2 years. They learn your schedule, optimize heating/cooling, provide energy reports, and enable remote control via smartphone. Many utility companies offer $50-$100 rebates for smart thermostat installation. We install and program Nest, Ecobee, and Honeywell models.
No-this is a common myth that actually wastes energy. Closing vents increases pressure in ductwork, reduces system efficiency, causes uneven temperatures, and can damage your HVAC equipment. Modern systems are sized and balanced for your entire home. For true zone control, consider a zoned system or ductless mini splits.
For Bay Area climates, variable-speed heat pumps are typically most efficient, achieving 20+ SEER cooling and 250-350% heating efficiency. Ductless mini splits (20-30+ SEER) are even more efficient for homes without ductwork. High-efficiency gas furnaces (95%+ AFUE) paired with high-SEER AC are also excellent. The right choice depends on your specific home, climate zone, and energy costs.
Yes, when used correctly. In summer, run fans counter-clockwise to create a cooling breeze, allowing you to set your thermostat 3-4°F higher. In winter, run clockwise on low speed to circulate warm air from the ceiling. Fans only cool people, not rooms-turn them off in empty rooms. Combined with proper HVAC operation, ceiling fans can reduce energy costs 8-15%.
Most effective solutions: upgrade to high-efficiency air filters (MERV 11-13), install whole-home air purifiers with HEPA filtration, add UV lights to kill bacteria and mold in ductwork, maintain proper humidity (30-50%) with humidifiers/dehumidifiers, ensure adequate ventilation, seal ductwork to prevent dust infiltration, and maintain your HVAC system regularly. We recommend solutions based on your specific air quality concerns.
For most Bay Area homes, MERV 11-13 filters offer excellent balance of filtration and airflow. They capture pollen, dust, mold spores, and some bacteria without restricting airflow. MERV 8 is minimum recommended; MERV 16+ HEPA filters require system modifications. Avoid fiberglass filters - they barely filter anything. We'll recommend the highest filtration your system can handle without reducing performance.
Yes, especially for Bay Area residents dealing with wildfire smoke, allergies, or asthma. Whole-home purifiers integrate with your HVAC to clean air throughout your entire home - not just one room like portable units. They're particularly valuable during wildfire season when outdoor air quality is hazardous. Systems range from $800-$2,500 installed and provide years of cleaner, healthier indoor air.
Yes, especially in winter when heating dries indoor air. Proper humidity (30-50%) improves comfort, reduces static electricity, protects wood furniture/floors, and can reduce heating costs by making lower temperatures feel warmer. Whole-home humidifiers integrate with your HVAC and maintain consistent humidity throughout your home-far more effective than portable units.
Yes! UV lights installed in your ductwork kill mold, bacteria, and viruses passing through your HVAC system. They're particularly effective at preventing mold growth on evaporator coils and in ductwork-common issues in Bay Area's moderate climate. UV lights complement filtration systems and are especially beneficial for households with allergies, asthma, or immunocompromised individuals. Systems cost $400-$800 installed.
Most effective strategies: upgrade to MERV 11-13 filters and change them regularly, seal ductwork to prevent dust infiltration (20-30% dust reduction), clean air vents and registers, maintain your HVAC system to prevent dust circulation, consider whole-home air purifier with HEPA filtration, and ensure proper ventilation. We can inspect your ductwork for leaks and recommend targeted solutions.
"Galaxy installed a new heat pump system in our home and the experience was outstanding. The crew was professional, the work was meticulous, and our energy bills have dropped significantly. Highly recommend!"
"Our furnace died on the coldest night of the year. Galaxy responded immediately, diagnosed the issue quickly, and had us warm again within hours. Their furnace repair service is exceptional!"
"Galaxy replaced our old furnace with a high-efficiency model. The installation team was incredibly professional, cleaned up thoroughly, and explained everything clearly. Our home has never been more comfortable!"
"During a heat wave, our AC stopped working. Galaxy's technician arrived the same day, diagnosed the problem expertly, and had our system running perfectly. Their AC repair service saved us!"
"We upgraded to a brand new AC system and couldn't be happier. The AC installation was seamless, the team was respectful of our home, and the cooling performance is incredible. Best investment we've made!"
"Galaxy installed a ductless mini split system in our home office. The installation was flawless, the technicians were knowledgeable and courteous, and the system works perfectly. We love the zone control!"
Call Galaxy Heating & Air Conditioning today and speak with our HVAC experts. We're here to help!
