Selecting the best HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can feel daunting. That decision is significant because the contractor you hire seriously impacts your HVAC system’s quality, durability and efficiency for years to come.
To assist you in making an informed decision, research several companies in your community that might be well-suited for the job. Once you find 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?
Asking about licensing and insurance should be the first question on everyone's list. Hiring a licensed contractor ensures that they fulfill the state and local requirements for HVAC companies. Then, insurance safeguards you from liability in case of accidents during the service call. A respectable HVAC contractor can supply verification 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 limit the unit’s service life. An experienced contractor can examine your home and figure out the appropriate 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 air conditioner 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 optimal fit for your needs. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to requesting a list of brands the contractor recommends and why.
4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?
A written quote is less risky than a verbal quote. When you have an itemized written estimate, you can identify what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you know more about where your money is going. Obtain estimates from many HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unexpected costs.
Remember, prices that seem too good to be true don’t always bring on the savings you expect. You’ll likely end up with substandard equipment and poor customer service, or the company will tack on hidden 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 profession’s standard. Nevertheless, you should also question companies about parts and equipment warranties. A few HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, signifying confidence in their technicians and equipment.
6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?
Routine tune-ups are vital to maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider choosing a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your requirements 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 an experienced contractor the next time you need maintenance or repair work.
7. Will You Pull All Necessary Permits?
A lot of HVAC work requires permits from local or state officials. A reliable 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 important to have information about how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Be sure to ask if they provide financing options or if they expect full payment as soon as the work is complete.
9. How Long Will the Installation Take?
The length of time it will take to install your new system will change based on the project's size and difficulty. Nevertheless, having a clear timeline is very important to reduce disruption to your daily routine. Your contractor should supply a realistic time frame to bring the project to its conclusion and then follow through on this estimate.
10. How Can I Improve Home Heating and Cooling Efficiency?
Your contractor ought to be able to advise you on ways to improve energy efficiency by doing 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 reduced utility expenses for years to come.
Contact R & M Climate Control Service Experts for HVAC Contracting Services in Knoxville
At R & M Climate Control Service Experts we understand 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 staff at R & M Climate Control 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 peace of mind 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 865-229-6176. Any time you contact a Service Experts office like R & M Climate Control Service Experts, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the appropriate decisions for your HVAC needs.