Finding the best HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can be difficult. That choice is important because the contractor you hire heavily 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 several companies in your area that might be suitable for the job. Once you find a handful of candidates with sufficient experience and positive reviews, reach out to 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 ought to be the first question on the list. Hiring a licensed contractor ensures that they satisfy the state and local criteria for HVAC companies. Then, insurance safeguards you from liability in case of accidents during the service call. A respectable HVAC contractor can supply proof 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 shorten the unit’s life expectancy. A knowledgeable contractor can evaluate your home and figure out the ideal heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for the greatest possible comfort and longevity.
3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?
Many furnace and air conditioning brands offer designs with differing features, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that will help you decide on the most appropriate fit for your needs. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to requesting 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 one. When you have an itemized written estimate, you can see what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you know more about where your money is going. Seek estimates from multiple HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unexpected costs.
Remember, prices that seem too good to be true don’t always result in the savings you think they will. 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 labor warranty is the HVAC field’s standard. Still, you should also inquire about parts and equipment warranties. Some 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 optimize 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 installer 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 state agencies. A reputable contractor should handle this process for you, saving you time and hassle throughout the installation process.
8. What Are My Payment Options?
It’s good to have information about how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Make sure to ask if they provide financing options or if they expect full payment as soon as the work is complete.
9. How Long Will the Installation Take?
How long it takes to install HVAC equipment will change based on the project's size and difficulty. Nevertheless, having a clear timeline is crucial to reduce disruption to your daily routine. Your contractor should give 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 ought to be able to advise you on ways to enhance energy efficiency with a home energy audit. Taking the time to add insulation, replace old windows, seal air leaks and perform other specific recommendations may help you qualify for a more modest heating and cooling system. The result is a more budget-friendly up-front investment and decreased utility expenses for years to come.
Contact Air Engineers Service Experts for HVAC Contracting Services in Jacksonville
At Air Engineers Service Experts 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 approximately 100 Service Experts locations across North America, the staff at Air Engineers Service Experts 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 peace of mind and knowing we performed a job well done.
So, if you’re looking for a dependable HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to reach out at 904-450-5672. Any time you contact a Service Experts office like Air Engineers Service Experts, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the appropriate decisions for your home comfort needs.