10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor
Choosing the right HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can seem intimidating. That selection is important because the contractor you hire greatly 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 area that might be a good fit for the job. Once you find a few candidates with sufficient 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 should be the first question on your list. Hiring a licensed contractor is how you know that they meet the province and local standards for HVAC companies. Then, insurance safeguards you from liability in case of accidents for the duration of the maintenance or repair. A reputable HVAC contractor can show proof of licensing and insurance upon request.
2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?
HVAC systems are not one-size-fits-all. Installing an oversized or undersized system causes inefficient performance and could decrease the unit’s service life. A seasoned contractor can examine your home and decide the appropriate heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for maximum comfort and longevity.
3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?
Many furnace and air conditioning brands offer models with differing properties, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that can help you find the optimal fit for your requirements. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to asking for a list of brands the contractor recommends and why.
4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?
A written quote is safer than a verbal estimate. With an itemized written estimate, you can identify what the contractor charges for each component, including labour, helping you know more about where your money is going. Get estimates from many HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unforeseen costs.
Remember, extremely low estimates don’t always result in the savings you expect. You’ll likely end up with shoddy equipment and inferior 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 labour warranty is the HVAC industry standard. Still, you should also inquire about parts and equipment warranties. Some HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, displaying confidence in their technicians and equipment.
6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?
Routine tune-ups are vital to making the most of 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 installer promotes solid long-term HVAC performance. It also means you won’t have to restart your search for a qualified contractor the next time you need maintenance or repair work.
7. Will You Pull All Necessary Permits?
The majority of HVAC work calls for permits from local or province authorities. A reliable 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 important to know how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Always ask if they have financing options or if they require full payment upon completion.
9. How Long Will the Installation Take?
How long it takes to install HVAC equipment will change based on the project’s size and difficulty. Still, having a clear timeline is fundamental to cut down on the disruption to your everyday routine. Your contractor should give a reasonable 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 be able to advise you on ways to improve energy efficiency with a home energy audit. Making the effort 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 affordable up-front investment and reduced utility costs for years to come.
Contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, for HVAC Contracting Services in Canada
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we understand 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 Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing proudly provides affordable and long-lasting installations, repairs and maintenance services. We stand by our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and our dedication to excellence is reflected in our wide 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 dependable HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to reach out at 866-397-3787. When you contact a Service Experts office like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the appropriate decisions for your heating and cooling needs.
