10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Choosing the right HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can feel intimidating. That selection is important because the contractor you hire heavily impacts your HVAC system’s quality, endurance and efficiency for years to come.

To assist you in making an informed decision, research various companies in your location that might be suitable for the job. Once you narrow it down to a a small number of candidates with enough 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?

Asking about licensing and insurance should be the first question on everyone’s list. Hiring a licensed contractor makes sure that they meet the state and local requirements for HVAC companies. Then, insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents during the maintenance or repair. A reputable HVAC contractor can show evidence of licensing and insurance upon request.

2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?

HVAC systems are available in many sizes. Installing a system that is too big or too small causes inefficient performance and could decrease the unit’s life span. A knowledgeable contractor can assess your home and figure out the suitable heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for the highest level of comfort and longevity.

3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?

Different 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 find the most appropriate fit for your specifications. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to asking for 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 quote. When a contractor provides an itemized written estimate, you can see what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you recognize where your money is going. Obtain estimates from a variety of HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unexpected costs.

Remember, extremely low estimates don’t always result in the savings you expect. 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. Still, you should also inquire about parts and equipment warranties. A handful of HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, indicating confidence in their technicians and equipment.

6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?

Scheduled tune-ups are essential to optimize your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider selecting a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your preferences and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your heating and cooling company promotes 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 involves permits from local or state authorities. A reputable contractor should handle this process on your behalf, saving you time and stress throughout the installation process.

8. What Are My Payment Options?

It’s worthwhile to understand how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Make sure to ask if they provide financing options or if they expect full payment when the project is done.

9. How Long Will the Installation Take?

The length of time it will take to install your new system will differ based on the project’s size and difficulty. Even so, having a clear timeline is very important to minimize disruption to your day-to-day routine. Your contractor should supply a realistic 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 ought to be able to suggest ways to improve energy efficiency with a home energy audit. Taking the time 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 reduced utility costs 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 a major 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 staff 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 considerable selection of high-quality brands and comprehensive maintenance packages. Our ultimate goal is to offer satisfaction and knowing we performed 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. Any time 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.