Choosing the ideal HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can feel intimidating. That selection is important because the contractor you hire heavily impacts your HVAC system’s quality, durability and efficiency for years to come.
To help you make an informed decision, research several companies in your community that might be a good fit for the job. Once you narrow it down to a a small number of candidates with enough experience and positive reviews, contact each one and be prepared to ask about the following top 10 questions to ask an HVAC contractor.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Asking about licensing and insurance should be the first question on the list. Hiring a licensed contractor is how you know that they fulfill the state and local standards for HVAC companies. Then, insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents during the project. A trustworthy HVAC contractor can show proof of licensing and insurance upon request.
2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?
HVAC systems are available in many sizes. Installing an oversized or undersized system causes inefficient performance and could decrease the unit’s life span. A knowledgeable contractor can evaluate your home and figure out the ideal heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for maximum comfort and longevity.
3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?
Various furnace and air conditioning brands offer products with differing properties, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that can help you locate the perfect fit for your specifications. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, think about making a list of brands the contractor suggests and why.
4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?
A written quote is less risky than a verbal estimate. When you have an itemized written estimate, you can identify what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you recognize where your money is going. Get estimates from a variety of HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unanticipated costs.
Remember, prices that seem too good to be true don’t always lead to the savings you expect. You’ll likely end up with substandard equipment and inferior customer service, or the company will tack on extra fees to bring the cost up at the last minute.
5. What Kind of Warranty Comes with Your Services?
A one-year labor warranty is the HVAC field’s standard. Still, you should also question companies about parts and equipment warranties. A handful of HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, indicating confidence in their specialists and equipment.
6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?
Regular tune-ups are crucial to making the most of your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider choosing a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your preferences and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your heating and cooling company helps bring about solid long-term HVAC performance. It also prevents you from restarting your search for an experienced contractor the next time you need maintenance or repair work.
7. Will You Pull All Necessary Permits?
Most HVAC work involves permits from local or state officials. A reputable contractor should handle this process on their own, saving you time and stress throughout the installation process.
8. What Are My Payment Options?
It’s important to know how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Make sure to ask if they have financing options or if they require full payment as soon as the work is complete.
9. How Long Will the Installation Take?
The length of time it will take to install your new system will differ based on the project's size and difficulty. Even so, having a clear timeline is very important to reduce disruption to your day-to-day routine. Your contractor should provide a sensible time frame to complete the project and then follow through on this estimate.
10. How Can I Improve Home Heating and Cooling Efficiency?
Your contractor should certainly be able to suggest ways to improve energy efficiency by doing a home energy audit. Taking the time to add insulation, replace old windows, seal air leaks and perform other specific suggestions may help you qualify for a smaller heating and cooling system. The result is a more affordable up-front investment and lower utility expenses for years to come.
Contact Climate Control Service Experts for HVAC Contracting Services in Mobile
At Climate Control Service Experts we recognize that choosing the right HVAC contractor is an important decision you shouldn’t take lightly. As industry leaders with years of experience and as one of approximately 100 Service Experts locations across North America, the crew at Climate Control Service Experts proudly provides affordable and long-lasting installations, repairs and maintenance services. We stand by our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and our devotion to excellence is reflected in our considerable selection of high-quality brands and comprehensive maintenance packages. Our ultimate goal is to offer peace of mind and knowing we performed a job well done.
So, if you’re looking for a respected HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to contact us today at 251-202-7503. Whenever you contact a Service Experts office like Climate Control Service Experts, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the appropriate decisions for your HVAC needs.