10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Finding the best HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can seem intimidating. That choice is important because the contractor you hire greatly impacts your HVAC system’s quality, longevity 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 create a shortlist of 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 needs to be the first question on everyone’s list. Hiring a licensed contractor ensures that they satisfy the state and local requirements for HVAC companies. Then, insurance safeguards you from liability in case of accidents during the course of the service call. A trustworthy HVAC contractor can show proof of licensing and insurance upon request.

2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?

HVAC systems are not one-size-fits-all. Installing an oversized or undersized system causes inefficient performance and could shorten the unit’s life span. A knowledgeable contractor can examine your home and figure out the suitable heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for the best comfort and longevity.

3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?

Many furnace and AC brands offer models with differing properties, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that is able to help you locate the most appropriate fit for your requirements. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, consider asking for 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 estimate. With an itemized written estimate, you will know what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you understand where your money is going. Obtain estimates from many HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unexpected costs.

Remember, prices that seem too good to be true don’t always bring on the savings you think they will. You’ll likely end up with substandard equipment and low-quality 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. Still, you should also question companies about parts and equipment warranties. A handful of 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 vital to optimize your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider selecting a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your requirements and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your furnace and air conditioning company promotes solid long-term HVAC performance. It also means you won’t have 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 authorities. A reliable contractor should handle this process for you, 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 offer 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 differ based on the project’s size and difficulty. Still, having a clear timeline is fundamental to reduce disruption to your everyday routine. Your contractor should supply 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 ought to be able to advise you on ways to optimize energy efficiency through a home energy audit. Taking the time to add insulation, replace old windows, seal air leaks and perform other specific actions may help you qualify for a smaller 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 the U.S.

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know that choosing the right HVAC contractor is a major 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 crew 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 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 trusted 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 right decisions for your home comfort needs.