10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Selecting the ideal HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can seem daunting. That choice is significant because the contractor you hire heavily impacts your HVAC system’s quality, endurance and efficiency for years to come.

To help you make an informed decision, research several companies in your community that might be a good fit for the job. Once you narrow it down to a few 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?

This needs to be the first question on everyone's list. Hiring a licensed contractor ensures that they satisfy the state and local standards for HVAC companies. Then, insurance safeguards you from liability in case of accidents during the course of the service call. A respectable HVAC contractor can supply evidence of licensing and insurance upon request.

2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?

HVAC systems are not one-size-fits-all. Installing a system that is too big or too small causes inefficient performance and could reduce the unit’s service life. A seasoned contractor can examine your home and figure out the ideal 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?

Various furnace and air conditioner brands offer products with differing qualities, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that can help you locate the optimal fit for your needs. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, consider making a list of brands the contractor recommends and why.

4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?

A written quote is better than a verbal quote. With an itemized written estimate, you can identify what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you understand where your money is going. Get estimates from multiple 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 bring on the savings you are hoping to get. You’ll likely end up with substandard 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. However, you should also question companies about parts and equipment warranties. Some HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, displaying confidence in their specialists and equipment.

6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?

Regular tune-ups are crucial 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 helps bring about solid long-term HVAC performance. It also will help you avoid having to restart your search for a qualified 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 officials. A respected contractor should handle this process on their own, saving you time and hassle 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 offer financing options or if they expect full payment upon completion.

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 complexity. Still, having a clear timeline is fundamental to minimize disruption to your day-to-day 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 ought to be able to suggest ways to optimize 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 budget-friendly up-front investment and reduced utility costs for years to come.

Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for HVAC Contracting Services in Livermore

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 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 satisfaction and the assurance of a job well done.

So, if you’re looking for a trusted HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to contact us today at 925-364-5427. 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 heating and cooling needs.