10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Choosing the best HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can be intimidating. That selection is significant because the contractor you hire greatly impacts your HVAC system’s quality, durability and efficiency for years to come.

To assist you in making an informed decision, research various companies in your neighborhood that might be a good fit for the job. Once you find 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 needs to be the first question on your list. Hiring a licensed contractor makes sure that they fulfill the state and local standards for HVAC companies. Then, insurance safeguards you from liability in case of accidents during the course of the project. A respectable HVAC contractor can show proof of licensing and insurance upon request.

2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?

HVAC systems are available in many sizes. Installing an HVAC system that isn't the right size for your space causes inefficient performance and could shorten the unit’s service life. An experienced contractor can assess your home and figure out the appropriate 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 conditioner brands offer designs with differing properties, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that is able to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to requesting 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 one. When you have an itemized written estimate, you can see what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you recognize where your money is going. Seek estimates from a variety of HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unexpected costs.

Remember, low-ball estimates 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 industry standard. However, you should also ask 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 essential to maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider choosing a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your preferences and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your installer helps bring about solid long-term HVAC performance. It also prevents you from restarting 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 requires permits from local or state officials. A reputable contractor should handle this process for you, saving you time and anxiety throughout the installation process.

8. What Are My Payment Options?

It’s good to know how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Always ask if they offer financing options or if they will need full payment as soon as the work is complete.

9. How Long Will the Installation Take?

HVAC installation times will change based on the project's size and scope. Even so, having a clear timeline is crucial to cut down on the disruption to your day-to-day routine. Your contractor should supply a reasonable time frame to start and end 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 advise you on ways to maximize energy efficiency through a home energy audit. Taking the time to add insulation, replace old windows, seal air leaks and perform other specific actions may help you qualify for a more modest heating and cooling system. The result is a more affordable up-front investment and reduced utility expenses for years to come.

Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for HVAC Contracting Services in West Palm Beach

At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning we recognize that choosing the right HVAC contractor is a major decision 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 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 peace of mind and the satisfaction of completing a job well done.

So, if you’re looking for a trusted HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 561-629-1826. 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.