Articles / Heating Systems: Repair and Replacement
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While folks around the country think of the Los Angeles area as constantly filled with warm sun and relaxing breezes, residents know all too well that sometimes southern California can get downright chilly. Though there's little threat of blizzards or sub-zero temperatures, homeowners in the region need to have a heating system in good working order. When it's time to put away the sunscreen and curl up on the couch, your Los Angeles heating system is every bit as important as the roof over your head or the walls underneath it if you want to remain comfortable.

Common Types of Los Angeles Heating Systems

Typically, homes in the Los Angeles area are heated with a forced air system. Less expensive to install and more efficient to run, forced air is far more popular on the west coast than the boiler and radiator systems common in the east.

Heat pump systems are a bit less common, but it is probably because the technology is newer. In this set up, the same ductwork is used for both heating and cooling the house, and the outdoor condenser unit can produce both warm and cool air. Though it doesn't always have the same heating capabilities as a separate furnace, heat pump systems are quite convenient, and are a good choice for creating a comfortable temperature in the mild southern California climate.

Replacing an Existing Heating System in Los Angeles

If your heat pump or furnace is malfunctioning often enough to warrant several visits from the repairman each season, it's probably time to invest in a new heating system. Los Angeles homes fitted with a furnace that is more than a few decades old might also consider replacement a viable option, even if it is functioning "okay". The fact is, older systems are notorious for wasting energy, some running at below 80 percent efficiency (and a few running even lower). New furnaces can run at more than 95 percent efficiency in some cases, and will end up saving you on utility bills even during a mild winter.

Los Angeles Heating System Repair

Repairing heating and cooling units can be a pretty involved process that requires years of training and expertise to do well. As a homeowner, your best bet for lowering repair costs lies not in tackling do-it-yourself repairs, but in prevention. If you notice a problem, it's wise to call for repair ASAP. It is also a very good idea to have your heating system inspected by a professional at regular intervals to fix small problems before they become big ones, and to identify potential problems that can be prevented inexpensively. The worst thing you can do is let a problem go unattended to, as there's a pretty good chance it will get worse when you need heat the most.

Prices of Los Angeles Heating System Replacement and Repair

In Los Angeles, replacing an existing system ranges in price from about $1,500 all the way up to $8,000 depending on the size of the main unit and how involved the replacement process is. The cost of installing a heat pump depends quite a bit on the unit you choose, as it is often a pretty quick process; think somewhere close to $3,000 or $4,000. Repairs for either system can easily run as high as $800 or $900 if the problem is severe, or as low as $50 to $100 for the small fixes.