10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Selecting the right HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can seem difficult. That choice is noteworthy because the contractor you hire greatly impacts your HVAC system’s quality, durability and efficiency for years to come.

To make it easier for you to come to an informed decision, research different companies in your community that might be suitable for the job. Once you create a shortlist of a handful of candidates with enough 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?

Inquiring about a company’s license and insurance should be the first question on your list. Hiring a licensed contractor ensures that they meet the province and local requirements for HVAC companies. Then, insurance shields you from liability in case of accidents during the course of the project. A trustworthy HVAC contractor can show evidence 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 limit the unit’s life span. An experienced contractor can examine your home and figure out the ideal heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for maximum comfort and longevity.

3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?

Different furnace and air conditioning brands offer products 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 most appropriate fit for your needs. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, consider requesting a list of brands the contractor suggests and why.

4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?

A written quote is safer than a verbal one. When you have an itemized written estimate, you can see what the contractor charges for each component, including labour, helping you know more about where your money is going. Seek estimates from several HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unforeseen costs.

Remember, prices that seem too good to be true don’t always result in the savings you expect. You’ll likely end up with second-rate 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 labour warranty is the HVAC field’s standard. However, you should also ask about parts and equipment warranties. A handful of 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 crucial to maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider using a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your requirements and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your installer promotes solid long-term HVAC performance. It also prevents you from restarting your search for a qualified contractor the next time you need maintenance or repair work.

7. Will You Pull All Necessary Permits?

Most HVAC work calls for permits from local or province officials. A respected contractor should handle this process for you, saving you time and stress throughout the installation process.

8. What Are My Payment Options?

It’s good to know how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Always ask if they have financing options or if they require full payment as soon as the work is complete.

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 minimize disruption to your day-to-day routine. Your contractor should supply a sensible time frame to bring the project to its conclusion 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 optimize 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 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 Canada

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we understand that choosing the right HVAC contractor is a critical decision 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 wide 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 respected 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 best decisions for your home comfort needs.