Compare the highest-rated hvac professionals in Merced, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A full-service HVAC contractor specializing in high-efficiency system installations and complex repairs for Merced's extreme summer heat. They are a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer and focus on smart thermostat integration and energy-saving solutions.
A family-owned and operated HVAC company with deep roots in the Central Valley. They are known for their expertise in furnace repair and installation, crucial for the region's chilly, foggy winters, and offer comprehensive maintenance plans to keep systems running efficiently year-round.
Specializes in fast, reliable emergency HVAC services, a critical need during Merced's heatwaves. They offer quick response times for repairs and replacements on all major brands and are particularly adept at handling the strain that constant AC use places on systems.
The HVAC market in Merced is driven by a Mediterranean climate characterized by extremely hot, dry summers (often exceeding 100°F) and cool, tule fog-filled winters. This creates a high demand for robust air conditioning systems and reliable heating solutions. The seasonal demand is sharply bimodal, with AC emergencies peaking in July/August and heating service calls spiking in December/January. Homeowners prioritize energy efficiency due to high summer electricity costs, and there is a significant market for replacing older, inefficient units with modern, SEER 16+ systems. The market is competitive with a mix of long-established local companies and newer franchises.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Merced regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about hvac services in Merced, California.
For a standard single-family home, a full AC replacement in Merced typically ranges from $5,000 to $12,000. This wide range depends on the home's size, the system's efficiency (SEER rating), and the complexity of the installation. Given our extreme summer heat, investing in a higher SEER unit (16+) can offer significant long-term savings on energy bills, and local providers often offer financing options.
The absolute best time is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-October). Scheduling service during these mild shoulder seasons ensures your system is ready for the 100+ degree summer heat and avoids the high-demand summer rush when wait times are longest. This proactive timing also helps prevent a costly emergency breakdown during a heatwave.
Yes, homeowners should always ask about rebates. Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) frequently offers rebates for upgrading to high-efficiency heat pumps and air conditioners. Additionally, California statewide programs like TECH Clean California provide incentives for switching to electric heat pumps, aligning with local air quality goals in the San Joaquin Valley. Your licensed HVAC contractor should help you apply.
Always verify the contractor holds a valid California C-20 HVAC license and carries liability insurance. Look for companies with strong local reviews that specifically mention experience with Merced's hard water (which affects equipment) and summer load calculations. A trustworthy provider will perform a detailed Manual J load calculation for your specific home, not just recommend the same size unit you already have.
It is normal for systems to have longer run cycles on days exceeding 105°F, which are common here. However, you should be concerned if it never shuts off, fails to lower the indoor temperature, or causes a drastic spike in your PG&E bill. This often indicates issues like refrigerant leaks, a failing compressor, or an undersized system, all of which require immediate professional diagnosis to prevent a complete failure.