How to Choose a Good HVAC Company?

Getting a new heating and cooling system is a big investment for your home. Ideally, your system will last 10 to 15 years, increase the value of your home, and provide you and your family with comfort throughout the year.

If you are looking to replace or repair your HVAC system, picking the right contractor is important. Regardless of having a new HVAC system, choosing a reliable, knowledgeable HVAC company to perform regular maintenance will prolong the life of your unit and sustain optimal performance throughout the years. Check out the eight tips for hiring a heating and cooling contractor.

#1 Research

Find out about insurance and license requirements for contractors in your state. Before contacting your contractor, know the model of your current system and its maintenance history. Make a note of any rooms that are uncomfortable in your home. This will assist potential contractors in better understanding your heating needs.

#2 Ask for Referrals

Ask neighbors, friends, and coworkers for contractor referrals. You may also contact local trade organizations for the members’ names in your area.

#3 Call References

Ask contractors for customer references and contact them. Ask them about the contractor’s installation quality or performance and whether the job was completed on time and within budget.

#4 Find Special Offers

A heating and cooling system is one of the biggest purchases as a homeowner. Check around for available rebates to keep your costs down.

#5 Look for ENERGY STAR

Products ENERGY STAR qualified, meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, and offer significant long-term energy savings. Contractors should be able to show you calculations of savings for EnergyStar heating and cooling equipment.

#6 Expect a Home Evaluation

The contractor should spend significant time inspecting your home. A bigger system is not always; it is imperative for a contractor to size the heating and cooling system based on the size of your house, windows, and level of insulation.

#7 Get written, Itemized Estimates

When comparing contractors’ proposals (bids), compare cost, warranties, and energy efficiencies. The lowest price may not be the best deal if it’s not the most efficient because your energy costs will be higher.

#8 Get It in Ink

Sign a written proposal with a contractor before the project is started. It’ll protect you by specifying project costs, model numbers, job schedules, and warranty information.

Listed below are a few questions to ask your contractor during the quote process:

• Can you provide proof of insurance, certifications, and an up-to-date license?
• Can I contact past customers to hear about their experience?
• Have you worked with the specific model and design of my HVAC in the past?
• Will you be the one performing all my work, or do you contract out to other technicians?

In general, finding the best HVAC company includes professionals with specialized expertise and the credentials to justify them. Twenty years ago, you would likely find an HVAC technician in your area through the yellow pages. Luckily, technology has tremendously advanced over the years as now we have far more options and good ways to verify the technician’s background and credentials.

HVAC systems will give you a much better service if they are well cared for. They might break down when you need them most if they are neglected. Your air-conditioning system could simply stop working on the hottest afternoon of the season, or your furnace could give up on the frostiest night. Regular maintenance is recommended to ensure the durability of your residential HVAC system.

Published in: Home advice | Author: Yanita