Stay comfortable year-round with HVAC from Esquives. We install central air, heat pumps, mini-splits, and ductwork for Bay Area homes — Title 24 compliant.
Choose a ducted central HVAC system if you have existing ductwork in good condition and want whole-house comfort managed from one thermostat; choose ductless mini-splits for homes without ducts, room additions, ADUs, or spaces where you want independent temperature control in each zone. Both systems are energy-efficient in the right application — the deciding factor is usually your existing ductwork condition, home layout, and how many independent zones you need. We evaluate your specific home before recommending either approach.
The rough mechanical inspection covers refrigerant line sizing and protection, electrical disconnect placement, and whether equipment is installed to manufacturer specs and California Mechanical Code. But the stage that surprises most homeowners is the duct leakage test required under Title 24: a technician pressurizes the duct system and measures how much conditioned air escapes before reaching the living space. Systems that leak more than the code threshold—15% for standard systems, 6% for high-performance—fail and must be re-sealed and retested. Poorly sealed boot connections, poorly taped duct seams, and duct systems run through unconditioned attic space are the most common failure points. We seal all connections before calling for the test and typically pass duct leakage compliance on the first visit.
Title 24 is California’s energy code, which sets efficiency and installation standards for HVAC systems, duct sealing, thermostats, and more. For many replacements, it requires compliance testing, such as duct leakage tests, to verify the system performs as designed. We design and install your system with these requirements in mind so you don’t run into problems at inspection.
We don’t just match the old unit’s size; we perform a load calculation that considers square footage, insulation, windows, orientation, and local climate. Proper sizing is critical in the Bay Area, where temperature swings and microclimates vary by neighborhood. An accurately sized system runs more efficiently and keeps you more comfortable.
Most straightforward change‑outs take one to two working days on site once permits are in hand. If we’re also replacing or adding ductwork, doing asbestos abatement, or making electrical upgrades, the timeline can extend to several days. We give you a clear schedule after we inspect your existing system and review the scope.
We inspect your ducts for size, layout, leakage, insulation, and cleanliness. If the ducts are in good condition and properly sized, we may be able to reuse them with some repairs and sealing. If they’re undersized, damaged, or poorly routed, it often makes sense to replace them while the system is being upgraded.
Good attic insulation dramatically reduces heat gain and loss, which allows your system to run less often and maintain steadier temperatures. In many older Bay Area homes, upgrading insulation can be just as important as replacing the HVAC equipment. We can advise you on insulation levels and coordinate with insulation work to maximize your system’s efficiency.
Yes, the mild climate in San Jose, Morgan Hill, and much of California is well‑suited to heat pumps, which provide both heating and cooling efficiently. Modern heat pumps can replace traditional gas furnaces in many situations, especially in homes aiming to reduce gas use. We’ll compare operating costs, comfort, and electrical requirements so you can decide if a heat pump is right for you.
For most replacements, you’ll be without heating or cooling only during the days we’re working on the system. We schedule installations to avoid extreme weather when possible and keep you informed so you can plan around the downtime. In occupied homes, we protect floors, control dust, and clean up daily to keep disruption manageable.
If your system is 12–20 years old, needs frequent repairs, uses outdated refrigerant, or can’t keep the house comfortable, replacement often becomes more cost‑effective. Newer systems are typically more efficient and can lower your utility bills, especially with California’s energy costs. We’ll evaluate the condition of your equipment and provide honest input on whether repair or replacement makes more sense.
Esquives General Contractors · Morgan Hill, CA · (408) 809-1212 · sales@esquivescontractors.com · Mon–Fri 6:00am–5:00pm, Sat 6:00am–2:00pm · CSLB License #1056641 · Licensed, bonded & insured.