HVAC Installation, Repair & Service

Installing an HVAC unit

What Is HVAC?

“HVAC” stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

HVAC systems are all-in-one heating and air conditioning configurations that automatically switch to heat or cooling, depending on the thermostat setting. The air conditioner, blower, and furnace are connected to the same ductwork and thermostat.

HVAC systems also circulate air to maintain comfort, in some cases, even when they’re not heating or cooling. New buildings in Los Angeles, commercial and residential alike, typically use HVAC systems instead of separate heating and cooling appliances.

Chief is an authorized dealer of major brands of HVAC equipment, commercial and residential.

  • We sell HVAC systems, install them, and maintain them to keep them in top condition.
  • We repair HVAC systems that are broken or working inefficiently. We replace units that are old or damaged beyond repair.
  • All estimates for installation are free; there’s no obligation to buy. However, we’re confident that you’ll choose Chief for all your HVAC needs.

We also do ductwork. West Coast Chief is a full-service, experienced, and trusted heating and air conditioning company. When you call us for HVAC work, we’ll do the job right from start to finish.

Upgrading to an HVAC System

HVAC is the ideal solution for a pleasant and energy-efficient home or business — an all-in-one heating, air conditioning, and filtration system connected to a network of ducts and controlled from a single thermostat or several thermostats (in the case of a zoned system).

Even when it’s not directly heating or cooling air, an HVAC system can circulate air to ensure that you breathe easier.

West Coast Chief’s licensed technicians can help you choose the right brand and model of HVAC equipment for your home or business. We’ll give you a free estimate for installation and the time you need to think it over, then install a top-quality HVAC system with the speed, courtesy, and workmanship you expect. 

We also perform HVAC maintenance and tuneups and offer prompt, reliable, and affordable repairs on all HVAC systems, including those installed by other companies.

HVAC tools & gauges

HVAC Installation Should Be Handled by Specialists

Installing an HVAC system is a difficult job best reserved for specialists and not general handymen. Always hire a reputable company like West Coast Chief to install and replace your HVAC system.

  • AC units contain air handler components like evaporator coils, condensers, and compressors not found in most other appliances.
  • Complex electrical circuitry must be considered.
  • The air conditioner, furnace, and ventilation system must switch automatically from heating to cooling and to air circulation.
  • Most new HVAC systems are installed with smart a thermostat. Larger homes and commercial buildings may have zoned systems with multiple thermostats.
  • The installer should be familiar with local building codes, city permits, etc.

Trusting the job to a jack of all trades or attempting to do it yourself is only asking for trouble. Chief’s professional technicians:

  • Are familiar with all major brands of air conditioning systems.
  • Understand the various techniques of installation and troubleshooting.
  • Are trained in AC installation, and they’re licensed, bonded, and insured.

HVAC Brands We Install & Repair

  • American Standard
  • Trane
  • Goodman
  • Heil
  • Rheem
  • Mitsubishi
  • Bryant
  • Amana
  • Carrier
  • York
  • Lennox
  • Titus
  • And more!
Testing a commercial air conditioner

Commercial HVAC Installation & Service

Commercial clients we serve include:

  • Large apartment complexes
  • Home associations
  • Retail malls and complexes
  • Office complexes
  • Small and medium businesses

With many commercial customers we have longstanding relationships where we handle all work related to heating and air conditioning, including seasonal maintenance and new appliance installation.

Common HVAC Problems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning appliances are complex, especially when configured to work together and controlled by a smart thermostat. As with all complicated equipment, one misbehaving part can have a compound effect.

Keep an eye out for the following:

Ice Buildup

HVAC heat pumps have defrost cycles to melt accumulated ice. Newer, more sophisticated installations also have thermostats or other sensors to manage ice buildup. Any ice accumulation should be slight.

Possible causes include:

  • Interrupted defrost cycle
  • Leaks from nearby guttering or other water sources
  • Blocked fans, vents, or filters
  • Faulty fan or drive belt

Unusual Odors

When moisture, heat, and refrigeration are involved, there’s always a potential for unpleasant smells.

If you catch a whiff of something unusual coming from the vents, it could indicate a problem you’ll need us to fix.

Different odors help us diagnose different issues. Some are deadly serious.

  • Electrical odors & burning: Disconnect your system from power and call us immediately.
  • Gas: Call your utility company and us immediately. If you can’t locate and shut down the gas leak, open all windows and evacuate family members and pets from the house.
  • Oil, mold & damp: Schedule a service call with us. Check for leaks around the air conditioner and mold on the filters.

High Utility Bills

Assuming you haven’t lowered your thermostat settings during the latest heatwave, a spiking energy bill should cause concern. Something’s not quite right with your HVAC system.

Typically, when this happens, one or more units in the system are running continuously or longer than they should.

Sensors, thermostats, and fail-safes protect your HVAC system, but when things go wrong, it could be due to:

  • The backup heat not turning off
  • A faulty thermostat
  • Heating and AC working in competition
  • Blocked or broken ducting
  • A clogged or dirty filter
  • Malfunctioning components
Checking an air conditioner

HVAC Maintenance & Service: Tune-Ups

One of the best ways to reduce the risk of breakdowns is to schedule regular HVAC service (tune-ups) at least once a year. HVAC tune-ups will ensure that your system operates efficiently without strain.

A poorly maintained HVAC system demands more energy to achieve the same result as a tuned system.

For example, your ventilation system will still work with blocked filters, but it will need more power to push air through the blockages. Consider how much harder it is to blow air through a tiny straw than a straw with a large diameter. When you don’t keep the filters clean, those straws shrink to the size of a microdot.

In gas heating systems, gas jets become blocked with carbon, distorting the shape of the gas jet. This leads to inefficient and incomplete burning. Even if your gas furnace is still producing heat, it will need more fuel to provide the same amount of heat as a well-maintained furnace.

How Often Should an HVAC System Be Serviced?

Most HVAC appliances have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years; new models last up to 5 years longer.

During those years, even the best HVAC systems should be serviced to remain in peak operating condition. Optimal service intervals will vary according to:

  • How often you use your system
  • The age of your equipment
  • The type of equipment
  • The condition of the equipment

Chief offers a variety of home and commercial HVAC maintenance plans to fit your budget and needs.

What We Do

  • Check all controls
  • Check electrical connections
  • Check disconnect & breaker
  • Check filters
  • Check refrigerant charge
  • Check amperage & voltage
  • Inspect ducts
  • Check outdoor & indoor coil
  • Check blower & belt
  • Lubricate motors & bearings
  • Maintain filters
  • Check outdoor fan motor

Why Choose Chief for Your HVAC Installation & Repair

Here at West Coast Chief Repair, we know that not all homes and commercial spaces are created equal — and neither are their heating and cooling needs.

That’s why we’ve gone out of our way to hire skilled technicians who can install and repair all types of HVAC systems. So whether you have a gas or electric heating system, electric air conditioning, or something a little more unique like a heat pump or combination system, we’ll take care of it for you.

Plus, we’re always happy to answer any questions you might have about your system and how to keep it running smoothly. So next time you’re in need of some HVAC help, give us a call!