Heating and Air Conditioning | Electrician in Livermore, CA

Frequently Asked Questions About Heating and Air Conditioning Services in Livermore

1. How often should I service my air conditioner in Livermore?

You should have your AC serviced at least once a year, ideally in spring before Livermore’s heat arrives. Our summers regularly hit 100+ degrees, putting serious strain on air conditioning systems. Regular maintenance catches small problems before they become expensive breakdowns in the middle of summer. Our heating and air conditioning technicians at Five or Free check refrigerant levels, clean coils, test components, and make sure your system is ready for extreme heat.

2. Why is my AC running but not cooling my Livermore home?

Common causes include low refrigerant (often from a leak), a dirty air filter, frozen evaporator coils, a failing compressor, or blocked airflow from dirty ducts. Livermore’s dry, dusty conditions can clog filters and stress systems quickly. Our heating and air conditioning team can diagnose the issue and get your AC blowing cold air again.

3. How long do AC units last in Livermore?

Most air conditioning systems last 12-15 years with regular maintenance, though Livermore’s extreme heat can shorten that lifespan when systems work overtime every summer. If your AC is over 10 years old and struggling to keep up with 100+ degree days or needing frequent repairs, it’s worth considering replacement with a more efficient model. We help Livermore homeowners evaluate whether repair or replacement makes the most sense.

4. What size AC unit do I need for my Livermore home?

AC sizing depends on your home’s square footage, insulation, ceiling height, number of windows, and sun exposure. In Livermore’s extreme heat (regularly over 100 degrees), proper sizing is critical. An oversized unit cycles on and off too frequently and doesn’t dehumidify properly, while an undersized unit runs constantly and can’t keep up. Our heating and air conditioning technicians at Five or Free perform proper load calculations to recommend the right size for your Livermore home.

5. Why is my furnace blowing cold air in Livermore?

If your furnace is running but blowing cold air, the most common causes are a faulty pilot light or ignition system, a tripped circuit breaker, a dirty flame sensor, or the thermostat set to “fan” instead of “auto.” Sometimes it’s a simple fix, but our heating and air conditioning team in Livermore can diagnose and repair any furnace issue quickly.

6. How much does it cost to replace an HVAC system in Livermore?

HVAC system replacement in Livermore typically ranges from $5,000 to $12,000+ depending on the system size, efficiency rating (SEER), brand, and installation complexity. Given Livermore’s extreme summer heat, higher efficiency systems are worth considering as they save significantly on energy bills during the long cooling season. Our heating and air conditioning technicians at Five or Free provide detailed estimates and financing options to fit your budget.

7. Should I repair or replace my old AC unit in Livermore?

A good rule of thumb: if the repair cost is more than half the price of a new unit, or if your AC is over 12 years old and needs major repairs, replacement usually makes more sense. Newer systems are 30-50% more efficient than models from 10+ years ago, which matters in Livermore’s 100+ degree summers. Our heating and air conditioning experts at Five or Free help you compare options and make the best decision for your budget and home.