10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Choosing the right HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can seem daunting. That decision 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 various companies in your location that might be a good fit for the job. Once you create a shortlist of a handful of candidates with sufficient 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?

Asking about licensing and insurance should be the first question on the list. Hiring a licensed contractor makes sure that they satisfy the state and local requirements for HVAC companies. Then, insurance shields you from liability in case of accidents for the duration of the maintenance or repair. A respectable HVAC contractor can provide evidence of licensing and insurance upon request.

2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?

HVAC systems are available in many sizes. Installing a system that is too big or too small causes inefficient performance and could reduce the unit’s service life. An experienced contractor can assess your home and decide the recommended heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for the best comfort and longevity.

3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?

Various furnace and air conditioning brands offer products with differing properties, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that can help you decide on the perfect fit for your requirements. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to asking for a list of brands the contractor recommends and why.

4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?

A written quote is better than a verbal estimate. When a contractor provides an itemized written estimate, you can identify 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 unanticipated costs.

Remember, low-ball estimates don’t always result in the savings you are hoping to get. 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 field’s standard. However, you should also inquire about parts and equipment warranties. A few HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, indicating confidence in their technicians and equipment.

6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?

Scheduled tune-ups are vital to making the most of your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider choosing a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your requirements and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your furnace and air conditioning company helps bring about 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 agencies. A reputable contractor should handle this process on your behalf, saving you time and stress throughout the installation process.

8. What Are My Payment Options?

It’s important to understand how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Always ask if they provide financing options or if they expect full payment upon completion.

9. How Long Will the Installation Take?

The length of time it will take to install your new system will vary based on the project’s size and difficulty. Even so, having a clear timeline is crucial to cut down on the disruption to your day-to-day routine. Your contractor should provide 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 should be able to suggest ways to improve energy efficiency through a home energy audit. Finding the time to add insulation, replace old windows, seal air leaks and perform other specific recommendations may help you qualify for a less expensive heating and cooling system. The result is a more budget-friendly up-front investment and reduced utility expenses 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 a major choice 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 team 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 dedication to excellence is reflected in our considerable selection of high-quality brands and comprehensive maintenance packages. Our ultimate goal is to offer peace of mind and the assurance of 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. 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 heating and cooling needs.