Selecting the best HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can seem daunting. That selection is noteworthy because the contractor you hire greatly 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 neighborhood that might be suitable for the job. Once you create a shortlist of a few candidates with sufficient 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 ought to be the first question on the list. Hiring a licensed contractor makes sure that they meet the state and local criteria for HVAC companies. Then, insurance shields you from liability in case of accidents during the project. A reputable HVAC contractor can show verification 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 shorten the unit’s life expectancy. A knowledgeable contractor can evaluate your home and decide the suitable 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 products with differing properties, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that will help you decide on the optimal fit for your specifications. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, think about making 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 quote. When you have an itemized written estimate, you will know what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you know more about where your money is going. Seek estimates from many HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unanticipated costs.
Remember, prices that seem too good to be true don’t always result in the savings you are hoping to get. 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 ask about parts and equipment warranties. Some HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, displaying confidence in their employees and equipment.
6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?
Routine tune-ups are essential to making the most of 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 installer encourages 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?
Most HVAC work involves permits from local or state agencies. A reputable contractor should handle this process on their own, saving you time and stress throughout the installation process.
8. What Are My Payment Options?
It’s important to know how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Make sure to ask if they have 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 differ based on the project's size and difficulty. Even so, having a clear timeline is fundamental to minimize disruption to your everyday routine. Your contractor should give a sensible 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 be able to advise you on ways to optimize energy efficiency with a home energy audit. Finding the time to add insulation, replace old windows, seal air leaks and perform other specific suggestions may help you qualify for a smaller heating and cooling system. The result is a more wallet-friendly up-front investment and lower utility costs for years to come.
Contact Chief/Bauer Service Experts for HVAC Contracting Services in Champaign
At Chief/Bauer Service Experts we recognize that choosing the right HVAC contractor is a critical decision you shouldn’t take lightly. As industry leaders with years of experience and as one of roughly 100 Service Experts locations across North America, the crew at Chief/Bauer 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 devotion to excellence is reflected in our considerable selection of high-quality brands and comprehensive maintenance packages. Our ultimate goal is to offer security and knowing we performed a job well done.
So, if you’re looking for a reliable HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to reach out at 217-689-2469. Any time you contact a Service Experts office like Chief/Bauer Service Experts, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the appropriate decisions for your home comfort needs.