10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor
Finding the best HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can seem intimidating. That selection is significant because the contractor you hire greatly impacts your HVAC system’s quality, longevity and efficiency for years to come.
To assist you in making an informed decision, research different companies in your neighborhood that might be suitable for the job. Once you find a few candidates with enough experience and positive reviews, reach out to 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 needs to be the first question on everyone’s list. Hiring a licensed contractor ensures that they satisfy the province and local standards for HVAC companies. Then, insurance safeguards you from liability in case of accidents for the duration of the service call. A respectable HVAC contractor can provide verification of licensing and insurance upon request.
2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?
HVAC systems come in various sizes and strengths. Installing a system that is too big or too small causes inefficient performance and could reduce 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 greatest possible comfort and longevity.
3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?
Different furnace and air conditioning brands offer products with differing features, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that is able to help you locate the most appropriate fit for your needs. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, consider requesting a list of brands the contractor suggests and why.
4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?
A written quote is better than a verbal quote. When you have an itemized written estimate, you can see what the contractor charges for each component, including labour, helping you understand where your money is going. Get 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 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 additional fees to bring the cost up at the last minute.
5. What Kind of Warranty Comes with Your Services?
A one-year labour warranty is the HVAC field’s standard. Nevertheless, you should also question companies about parts and equipment warranties. Some HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, indicating confidence in their specialists and equipment.
6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?
Scheduled tune-ups are essential to optimize 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 furnace and air conditioning company promotes solid long-term HVAC performance. It also will help you avoid having to restart your search for a skilled contractor the next time you need maintenance or repair work.
7. Will You Pull All Necessary Permits?
Most HVAC work requires permits from local or province officials. A reputable contractor should handle this process on their own, saving you time and anxiety throughout the installation process.
8. What Are My Payment Options?
It’s good to understand how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Always ask if they have financing options or if they expect full payment as soon as the work is complete.
9. How Long Will the Installation Take?
How long it takes to install HVAC equipment will differ based on the project’s size and scope. Still, having a clear timeline is very important to reduce disruption to your everyday routine. Your contractor should supply a sensible time frame to complete 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 recommend ways to enhance energy efficiency through 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 budget-friendly up-front investment and decreased utility expenses for years to come.
Contact Rob's Albertan Service Experts, for HVAC Contracting Services in Edmonton
At Rob's Albertan Service Experts, we recognize that choosing the right HVAC contractor is a major choice you shouldn’t take lightly. As industry leaders with years of experience, and as one of approximately 100 Service Experts locations across North America, the staff at Rob's Albertan 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 commitment to excellence is reflected in our wide 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 trusted HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to reach out at 780-800-9047. Any time you contact an office like Rob's Albertan Service Experts, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the best decisions for your heating and cooling needs.
