10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Finding the right HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can seem daunting. That decision is significant because the contractor you hire greatly impacts your HVAC system’s quality, longevity and efficiency for years to come.

To assist you in making an informed decision, research different companies in your area that might be well-suited for the job. Once you find a a small number 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?

This ought to be the first question on your list. Hiring a licensed contractor is how you know that they meet the state and local standards for HVAC companies. Then, insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents during the course of the service call. A trustworthy HVAC contractor can provide proof of licensing and insurance upon request.

2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?

HVAC systems are available in many sizes. Installing an oversized or undersized system causes inefficient performance and could limit the unit’s service life. An experienced contractor can examine your home and determine the recommended 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 AC brands offer products with differing qualities, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that is able to help you decide on the perfect fit for your needs. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to making a list of brands the contractor endorses and why.

4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?

A written quote is less risky than a verbal estimate. When a contractor provides an itemized written estimate, you can identify what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you understand where your money is going. Obtain estimates from many HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unanticipated costs.

Remember, extremely low estimates don’t always lead to 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 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. However, you should also ask about parts and equipment warranties. A handful of HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, signifying confidence in their employees and equipment.

6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?

Routine tune-ups are essential to optimize your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider choosing a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your needs and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your heating and cooling company promotes solid long-term HVAC performance. It also means you won’t have to restart your search for a qualified 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 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 important to understand how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Make sure to ask if they offer financing options or if they expect full payment when the project is done.

9. How Long Will the Installation Take?

HVAC installation times will change based on the project’s size and difficulty. Even so, having a clear timeline is fundamental to reduce disruption to your daily routine. Your contractor should provide a reasonable 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 advise you on 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 less expensive heating and cooling system. The result is a more wallet-friendly up-front investment and reduced utility bills for years to come.

Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, for HVAC Contracting Services in Fort Lauderdale

At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we recognize 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 team 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 devotion to excellence is reflected in our extensive selection of high-quality brands and comprehensive maintenance packages. Our ultimate goal is to offer satisfaction and the satisfaction of completing a job well done.

So, if you’re looking for a respected HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 954-736-4314. Whenever 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 appropriate decisions for your home comfort needs.