Hiring a HVAC Contractor: Things You Need to Know

Hiring an HVAC technician will take time and a fair amount of research as well as checking on certifications, references, and credentials. Always follow up and ask contractors for customer references.
Ask about the contractor’s installation or service performance, and if the job was successfully completed. To prepare for hiring an HVAC contractor, find out about your state’s license and insurance requirements for contractors in your state. Be prepared and know the model of your current system and its maintenance history. Provide details about rooms or areas that have problems with temperature and moisture. Note the areas that have too cold or too hot problems. It is important to note the condition of windows and doors that leak air or let in air.

Ask trusted friends, neighbors, and family for HVAC contractor referrals. Contact local trade organizations, building code office, and other reputable resources in your area for a good recommendation.
Call about the contractor’s references. Ask the potential HVAC contractor for customer references. Ask about their previous jobs, installation, and service performance. Check to see if previous jobs were completed on time and within the agreed upon budget. Check for reasonable rates, seek out available rebates, and look for the energy star rating on HVAC equipment. Purchasing and installing a new HVAC system comes with a big price tag. Research at this website: www.energystar.gov Energy Star products meet energy guidelines set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and they offer long-term savings.

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Contractors should be able to conduct an evaluation by inspecting your current system and assessing your needs. Bigger is not necessarily better. The HVAC system should fit the size of your residence or business property. A system that is too big or too small is inadequate. Consider as well the condition of the home, the windows and doors, and the amount of insulation. Make sure the contractor inspects the duct system for air leaks, insulation, and measure the airflow. Whether you are updating a current system or installing a new one, the system must meet requirements and manufacturer specifications.

Obtain itemized written estimates. Before the work begins, sign a written proposal. Ensure that the proposal includes specific details about cost and materials. The job schedule, all costs, timeline, warranty information, and even model numbers and details should be in written contract form. Compare bids and check for cost, energy efficiency, and warranties. Don’t settle for deals that sound too good to be true. You need the best ROI (Return on Investment) when making a large budget purchase. If you install an inefficient system, in the long run, your utility bills will be higher. Get everything in writing and check the fine details before you sign any agreement. It will be a legal and binding contract. Be sure to do your due diligence. All parties are responsible for reviewing the contract before the final agreement is signed. Check with your insurance agent to ensure that you have the proper amount of coverage while workers are working on your home or property.