10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor
Selecting the ideal HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can seem difficult. That decision is important because the contractor you hire greatly impacts your HVAC system’s quality, endurance and efficiency for years to come.
To make it easier for you to come to an informed decision, research various companies in your neighborhood that might be a good fit for the job. Once you find a few candidates with adequate experience and positive reviews, reach out to 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 ensures that they meet the state and local standards for HVAC companies. Then, insurance shields you from liability in case of accidents during the course of the service call. A respectable HVAC contractor can supply evidence of licensing and insurance upon request.
2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?
HVAC systems are not one-size-fits-all. Installing an HVAC system that isn’t the right size for your space causes inefficient performance and could shorten the unit’s life expectancy. An experienced contractor can assess your home and decide the ideal heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for maximum comfort and longevity.
3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?
Many furnace and air conditioner brands offer designs with differing features, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that can help you decide on the most appropriate fit for your specifications. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to requesting a list of brands the contractor endorses and why.
4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?
A written quote is less risky than a verbal quote. When a contractor provides an itemized written estimate, you can see what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you know more about where your money is going. Seek estimates from many HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unexpected costs.
Remember, extremely low estimates don’t always result in the savings you expect. You’ll likely end up with shoddy equipment and poor 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 profession’s standard. However, you should also inquire about parts and equipment warranties. A few HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, displaying confidence in their specialists and equipment.
6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?
Regular tune-ups are crucial to maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider selecting a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your preferences and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your furnace and air conditioning company encourages solid long-term HVAC performance. It also will help you avoid having to restart your search for a skilled contractor the next time you need maintenance or repair work.
7. Will You Pull All Necessary Permits?
Most HVAC work requires permits from local or state agencies. A respected contractor should handle this process for you, saving you time and hassle throughout the installation process.
8. What Are My Payment Options?
It’s important to know how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Always ask if they offer financing options or if they expect full payment upon completion.
9. How Long Will the Installation Take?
How long it takes to install HVAC equipment will differ based on the project’s size and complexity. Even so, having a clear timeline is very important to reduce disruption to your daily routine. Your contractor should supply a realistic 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 recommend ways to optimize energy efficiency with a home energy audit. Making the effort to add insulation, replace old windows, seal air leaks and perform other specific actions may help you qualify for a less expensive heating and cooling system. The result is a more affordable up-front investment and decreased utility bills for years to come.
Contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, for HVAC Contracting Services in Canada
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know that choosing the right HVAC contractor is a critical choice you shouldn’t take lightly. As industry leaders with years of experience, and as one of almost 100 Service Experts locations across North America, the staff at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing 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 satisfaction and the satisfaction of completing a job well done.
So, if you’re looking for a reliable HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 866-397-3787. Any time you contact a Service Experts office like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the appropriate decisions for your home comfort needs.