General FAQs

Repair FAQs

How do I know if my system needs a repair or a full replacement?

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We follow a "Repair-First" philosophy, meaning we lead with skill rather than sales pitches. Generally, if your system is less than 12–15 years old and the repair is safe and cost-effective, we recommend fixing it. If you’ve been told a replacement is your only option, we offer a FREE second opinion to see if John—a 3rd-generation specialist—can find a way to fix it instead.


Do you charge for repair estimates?

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While we provide free estimates for equipment replacements, our repair diagnostics are a billable service. This allows us to remain 100% objective, because we don't work on commission, we have no incentive to "find" problems that don't exist. You are paying for over 20 years of expert field experience to get the straight truth about your system.


What kind of warranty do you offer on repairs?

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We stand behind our workmanship with a 60-day labor warranty on every repair. If the same issue returns within that window, we will return to make it right at no additional labor cost to you. This is backed by our status as a fully licensed, insured, and BBB-accredited family business.


Why should I choose Bodnar HVAC over a larger company?

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Most large companies train their technicians to be sales reps who push expensive replacements. At Bodnar HVAC, you get a small, expert team where the owner, John, personally handles the repairs. We are 3rd-generation technicians who treat our clients like neighbors in Redwood City, San Carlos, and Palo Alto.

Maintenance FAQs

Why do I need routine maintenance service?

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HVAC systems are generally an afterthought - until they stop working. Routine maintenance can prevent costly repairs and weeks of being without warm or cool air during the busy season. Additionally, a properly maintained system will last years and even decades longer than a neglected one, saving your wallet from repeatedly replacing an expensive HVAC system.


How often should I have a routine maintenance service performed?

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For homes with heating only - once a year. For homes with heating and cooling, twice a year. Newer systems (less than 5-10 years old) can get away with less regular maintenance IF you replace the filter regularly. This should be done every six months or when it appears dirty.


When should I have the service done?

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It is best to have the routine maintenance service performed at the beginning of the season you expect to use the equipment. This means May or June for A/C maintenance and October or November for furnace maintenance.


Can I have my furnace and air conditioner routine maintenance service performed at the same time?

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Sometimes, but mostly no. Here‘s why:

Seasonal restrictions - to perform a proper check of a heating or cooling system, it is necessary to run the system through several full cycles. This allows the technician to observe all the internal components of the unit in action - and catch anything that may be malfunctioning. Therefore, it is necessary to have furnace maintenance performed when the weather is cool enough for the system to run through several complete cycles. For cooling checks, the same is true.

Logistical limitations - heating and cooling system maintenance services require different tools and replacement parts. To remain efficient and properly prepared, our maintenance vehicles are stocked to perform one service or the other, not both.

Maintain expectations - Making it three generations in any business is no small feat. We have come this far because we offer knowledgeable and reliable service to our clients. It has been decided by the powers that be that combining maintenance services or performing them at the wrong time of year would lead to subpar service and missed opportunities to make a proper preventive diagnosis. The whole point of having a maintenance service performed is to prevent problems during extreme weather when wait times for appointments are typically 2-3 weeks out. To meet this need, it was imperative to separate and properly schedule heating and cooling maintenance services.

Installation FAQs

​How do I know it’s time to replace my HVAC system?

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If your system is over 15 years old, requires frequent repairs, or your energy bills are spiking, it’s time for an honest assessment. We specialize in "Repair-First," but when a replacement is inevitable, we provide a transparent, no-pressure consultation to help you choose the right fit for your budget.


What is the "Bodnar Installation Guarantee"?

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​We stand behind our craftsmanship with one to five-year labor warranties on top of all manufacturer warranties. Because we are BBB Accredited and third-generation technicians, we take pride in a clean, professional job site and a system that works perfectly from day one.


Do you offer free estimates for new installations?

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Yes. For residents in Redwood City, San Carlos, and Palo Alto, we offer free consultations for system replacements. We’ll look at your ductwork, your insulation, and your comfort goals to provide a quote based on expertise, not sales quotas.

Consulation FAQs

What is the difference between a free estimate and a paid consultation?

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A free estimate is strictly for a "like-for-like" equipment replacement quote. A paid consultation is for diagnosing chronic performance issues, airflow problems, or planning complex duct repairs. You are paying for a professional diagnostic report and a solution plan.


Why does Bodnar HVAC charge for repair diagnostics?

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We don't work on commission, and we don't hide our costs in inflated part prices. Charging for our time allows us to remain objective. Our goal is to tell you exactly what is wrong so you can make an informed decision, rather than rushing a "free" visit just to sell you something you don't need.


Are you licensed to perform these technical audits?

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Yes. We are fully licensed, insured, and EPA-certified. As a BBB-accredited business, our consultations are rooted in honesty and technical accuracy.


How can I contact you?

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You can reach us anytime via our direct phone number (650) 368-4408 (call or text), email info@bodnarhvac.com, or our contact form above. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.