Selecting the best HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can feel daunting. That choice is important because the contractor you hire seriously impacts your HVAC system’s quality, longevity and efficiency for years to come.
To help you make an informed decision, research several companies in your location that might be well-suited for the job. Once you narrow it down to a a small number of candidates with adequate experience and positive reviews, get in touch with 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 needs to be the first question on the list. Hiring a licensed contractor is how you know that they fulfill 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 respectable HVAC contractor can provide 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 shorten the unit’s service life. A seasoned 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?
Various furnace and AC brands offer products 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 perfect fit for your specifications. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to making 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. With an itemized written estimate, you can identify what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, 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 lead to the savings you are hoping to get. You’ll likely end up with substandard equipment and poor customer service, or the company will tack on hidden 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. Nevertheless, you should also question companies about parts and equipment warranties. A few HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, indicating confidence in their technicians and equipment.
6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?
Routine tune-ups are vital to optimize your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider selecting 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 an experienced contractor the next time you need maintenance or repair work.
7. Will You Pull All Necessary Permits?
The majority of HVAC work requires permits from local or state authorities. A reliable contractor should handle this process on their own, saving you time and anxiety throughout the installation process.
8. What Are My Payment Options?
It’s important to have information about how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Make sure to ask if they offer financing options or if they will need full payment when the project is done.
9. How Long Will the Installation Take?
How long it takes to install HVAC equipment will change based on the project's size and scope. Still, having a clear timeline is fundamental to reduce disruption to your day-to-day routine. Your contractor should provide 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 improve energy efficiency with 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 lower utility expenses for years to come.
Contact Golden Seal Service Experts for HVAC Contracting Services in Saint Charles
At Golden Seal Service Experts we understand that choosing the right HVAC contractor is a critical 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 Golden Seal 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 wide selection of high-quality brands and comprehensive maintenance packages. Our ultimate goal is to offer satisfaction and the assurance of a job well done.
So, if you’re looking for a trusted HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 630-246-2698. Whenever you contact a Service Experts office like Golden Seal Service Experts, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the right decisions for your heating and cooling needs.