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10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Finding the right HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can feel difficult. 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 different companies in your area that might be suitable for the job. Once you find a a small number of candidates with sufficient 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?

Inquiring about a company’s license and insurance needs to be the first question on your list. Hiring a licensed contractor makes sure that they fulfill the state and local requirements for HVAC companies. Then, insurance safeguards you from liability in case of accidents during the maintenance or repair. A respectable HVAC contractor can provide verification of licensing and insurance upon request.

2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?

HVAC systems come in various sizes and strengths. Installing an oversized or undersized system causes inefficient performance and could shorten the unit’s life expectancy. A seasoned contractor can evaluate your home and decide the appropriate 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 conditioner brands offer designs with differing features, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that is able to help you locate the optimal fit for your specifications. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, consider requesting a list of brands the contractor recommends 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 see what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you understand where your money is going. Obtain estimates from multiple HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unexpected costs.

Remember, extremely low estimates don’t always lead to the savings you think they will. You’ll likely end up with shoddy 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 profession’s standard. However, you should also question companies about parts and equipment warranties. A few HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, signifying confidence in their technicians and equipment.

6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?

Scheduled tune-ups are essential 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 installer encourages 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?

The majority of HVAC work calls for permits from local or state authorities. A reputable contractor should handle this process on their own, saving you time and hassle throughout the installation process.

8. What Are My Payment Options?

It’s worthwhile to know how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Make sure to ask if they provide financing options or if they expect full payment when the project is done.

9. How Long Will the Installation Take?

How long it takes to install HVAC equipment will vary based on the project’s size and difficulty. Nevertheless, having a clear timeline is fundamental to cut down on the disruption to your day-to-day routine. Your contractor should supply a sensible time frame to start and end the project and then follow through on this estimate.

10. How Can I Improve Home Heating and Cooling Efficiency?

Your contractor should be able to advise you on 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 recommendations may help you qualify for a smaller heating and cooling system. The result is a more wallet-friendly up-front investment and decreased utility costs for years to come.

Contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, for HVAC Contracting Services in the U.S.

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we understand 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 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 commitment to excellence is reflected in our wide selection of high-quality brands and comprehensive maintenance packages. Our ultimate goal is to offer satisfaction and the assurance of a job well done.

So, if you’re looking for a reliable HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to reach out at 866-397-3787. When 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. 

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