10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Choosing the ideal HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can be daunting. That decision is noteworthy 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 location that might be a good fit for the job. Once you create a shortlist of a handful of candidates with adequate 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 the list. Hiring a licensed contractor is how you know that they satisfy the state and local requirements for HVAC companies. Then, insurance shields you from liability in case of accidents during the project. A trustworthy HVAC contractor can show verification 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 decrease the unit’s life span. An experienced contractor can assess your home and figure out the ideal 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 AC brands offer products 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 suggests 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 can identify what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you recognize where your money is going. Seek 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 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. Still, you should also inquire about parts and equipment warranties. A handful of HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, displaying confidence in their employees and equipment.

6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?

Scheduled tune-ups are crucial to making the most of your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider selecting a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your needs and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your furnace and air conditioning company helps bring about solid long-term HVAC performance. It also will help you avoid having 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 calls for permits from local or state officials. A reliable contractor should handle this process on their own, saving you time and stress throughout the installation process.

8. What Are My Payment Options?

It’s good to understand how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Be sure to ask if they have 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 very important to minimize disruption to your everyday routine. Your contractor should supply a reasonable 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 certainly be able to recommend ways to maximize energy efficiency through a home energy audit. Making the effort 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 wallet-friendly up-front investment and reduced utility expenses for years to come.

Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for HVAC Contracting Services in Gainesville

At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning 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 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 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 trusted HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to contact us today at 352-414-4006. Any time you contact a Service Experts office like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the right decisions for your HVAC needs.