10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor
Choosing the right HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can feel intimidating. That choice is significant because the contractor you hire greatly impacts your HVAC system’s quality, endurance and efficiency for years to come.
To help you make an informed decision, research several companies in your location that might be suitable for the job. Once you narrow it down to a a small number of candidates with sufficient experience and positive reviews, contact each one and be prepared to ask about the following top 10 questions to ask an HVAC contractor.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This needs to be the first question on everyone’s list. Hiring a licensed contractor makes sure that they fulfill the province and local criteria 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 supply proof 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 life expectancy. An experienced contractor can examine your home and figure out the recommended 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?
Many furnace and AC brands offer systems with differing qualities, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that will help you decide on the perfect fit for your requirements. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, consider making 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 quote. When a contractor provides an itemized written estimate, you can see what the contractor charges for each component, including labour, helping you understand where your money is going. Get estimates from many HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unexpected costs.
Remember, extremely low estimates 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 additional fees to bring the cost up at the last minute.
5. What Kind of Warranty Comes with Your Services?
A one-year labour warranty is the HVAC industry standard. However, you should also question companies about parts and equipment warranties. Some HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, signifying confidence in their technicians and equipment.
6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?
Regular tune-ups are crucial to making the most of your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider using 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 a skilled contractor the next time you need maintenance or repair work.
7. Will You Pull All Necessary Permits?
A lot of HVAC work involves permits from local or province authorities. A reputable contractor should handle this process on your behalf, saving you time and anxiety throughout the installation process.
8. What Are My Payment Options?
It’s good to know how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Make sure to ask if they offer 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 differ based on the project’s size and complexity. Still, having a clear timeline is fundamental to minimize disruption to your daily routine. Your contractor should give 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 certainly be able to recommend ways to enhance energy efficiency by doing a home energy audit. Making the effort to add insulation, replace old windows, seal air leaks and perform other specific actions may help you qualify for a more modest heating and cooling system. The result is a more wallet-friendly up-front investment and decreased utility expenses for years to come.
Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, for HVAC Contracting Services in Edmonton
At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we recognize that choosing the right HVAC contractor is a critical commitment 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 staff at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning 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 satisfaction and knowing we performed a job well done.
So, if you’re looking for a respected HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to reach out at 587-404-0790. Any time you contact an office like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the best decisions for your home comfort needs.