Finding the right HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can be intimidating. That choice is important because the contractor you hire seriously impacts your HVAC system’s quality, longevity and efficiency for years to come.
To make it easier for you to come to an informed decision, research several 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, get in touch with each one and be prepared to ask about the following top 10 questions to ask an HVAC contractor.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Inquiring about a company's license and insurance ought to be the first question on everyone's list. Hiring a licensed contractor ensures that they satisfy the state and local standards for HVAC companies. Then, insurance safeguards you from liability in case of accidents during the maintenance or repair. A trustworthy HVAC contractor can provide verification 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 reduce the unit’s service life. An experienced contractor can examine your home and decide the appropriate heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for the greatest possible comfort and longevity.
3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?
Many furnace and air conditioner brands offer products with differing qualities, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that can help you find the most appropriate fit for your requirements. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, consider making a list of brands the contractor endorses and why.
4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?
A written quote is better than a verbal quote. 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 many HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unforeseen costs.
Remember, extremely low estimates don’t always lead to the savings you expect. You’ll likely end up with second-rate 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 industry standard. Still, you should also question companies about parts and equipment warranties. Some 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 vital to optimize 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 furnace and air conditioning company encourages solid long-term HVAC performance. It also means you won't have to restart your search for an experienced contractor the next time you need maintenance or repair work.
7. Will You Pull All Necessary Permits?
A lot of HVAC work calls for permits from local or state officials. A respected contractor should handle this process for you, saving you time and stress throughout the installation process.
8. What Are My Payment Options?
It’s good to know how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Always ask if they provide financing options or if they will need full payment when the project is done.
9. How Long Will the Installation Take?
HVAC installation times will vary based on the project's size and scope. Even so, having a clear timeline is fundamental to reduce disruption to your day-to-day routine. Your contractor should supply a realistic time frame to bring the project to its conclusion and then follow through on this estimate.
10. How Can I Improve Home Heating and Cooling Efficiency?
Your contractor ought to be able to suggest ways to improve energy efficiency with a home energy audit. Making the effort to add insulation, replace old windows, seal air leaks and perform other specific recommendations may help you qualify for a smaller heating and cooling system. The result is a more budget-friendly up-front investment and decreased utility bills for years to come.
Contact Barlow Service Experts for HVAC Contracting Services in the Wasatch Front region
At Barlow 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 almost 100 Service Experts locations across North America, the crew at Barlow 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 commitment to excellence is reflected in our considerable selection of high-quality brands and comprehensive maintenance packages. Our ultimate goal is to offer security 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 801-436-8985. When you contact a Service Experts office like Barlow Service Experts, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the right decisions for your heating and cooling needs.