10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Selecting the best HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can feel daunting. That selection is significant 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 different companies in your neighborhood that might be a good fit for the job. Once you narrow it down to a few candidates with enough 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 should be the first question on everyone’s list. Hiring a licensed contractor is how you know that they satisfy the state and local criteria 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 a system that is too big or too small causes inefficient performance and could limit the unit’s service life. An experienced contractor can evaluate your home and determine the appropriate heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for the highest level of comfort and longevity.

3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?

Different 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 will help you find the perfect fit for your needs. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to making a list of brands the contractor recommends and why.

4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?

A written quote is safer than a verbal estimate. When you have an itemized written estimate, you will know what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you know more about where your money is going. Obtain estimates from several 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 are hoping to get. You’ll likely end up with substandard equipment and inferior customer service, or the company will tack on hidden 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 ask about parts and equipment warranties. A few HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, indicating confidence in their specialists and equipment.

6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?

Scheduled tune-ups are essential to maximize 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 promotes 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?

Most HVAC work requires permits from local or state agencies. A respected contractor should handle this process for you, saving you time and anxiety throughout the installation process.

8. What Are My Payment Options?

It’s worthwhile to have information about how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Always ask if they have financing options or if they require full payment when the project is done.

9. How Long Will the Installation Take?

The length of time it will take to install your new system will change based on the project’s size and scope. Nevertheless, having a clear timeline is fundamental to cut down on the disruption to your daily routine. Your contractor should give 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 be able to advise you on ways to improve energy efficiency with 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 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 the U.S.

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know that choosing the right HVAC contractor is an important 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 extensive 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 trusted HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 866-397-3787. Whenever 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.