Find out about license and insurance requirements for HVAC contractors in your state. And before you call a contractor, know the model of your current system and its maintenance history. Also, make note of any uncomfortable rooms. This will help potential HVAC contractors better understand your heating needs.
Ask friends, neighbors, and co-workers for HVAC contractor referrals. You can also contact local trade organizations for names of members in your area that work on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
Ask HVAC contractors for customer references and call them. Once contact a reference ask about the contractor’s installation or service performance, and if the job was completed on time and within budget. Heating, ventilation, and cooling systems are some of the largest purchases you’ll make as a homeowner.
Find out how to keep your costs down by checking around for available rebates on energy-efficient ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment. One of the best sources to start your search is at www.energystar.gov.
By choosing ENERGY STAR qualified products that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will offer significant long-term energy savings. HVAC contractors should be able to show you calculations of savings for ENERGY STAR heating and cooling equipment for residential or commercial.
The contractor you choose to work with should spend significant time inspecting your current system and home to assess your needs. A bigger system isn’t always better; a contractor should size the heating and cooling system based on the size of your house, level of insulation, and windows.
An efficient contractor will inspect your duct system (if applicable) for air leaks and insulation and measure airflow to make sure it meets the manufacturer’s specifications. It is a good idea to compare contractors’ proposals (bids), be sure to compare cost, energy efficiency, and warranties.
The lowest price may not be the best deal if it’s not the most efficient because your energy costs will be higher. Always get it in a written and signed proposal with a contractor before the work gets started. It’ll protect you by specifying project costs, model numbers, job schedule, and warranty information to complete the work.