Leonard Splaine 10 Tips for Hiring a Heating and Cooling Contractor

While hiring an HVAC contractor may not be the most exciting item on your to-do list, it could end up as the most essential one if your heating or cooling system decides to take a nosedive. Establishing a relationship with a reputable HVAC contractor can ensure you have someone to come to the rescue and, better yet, ensure your system is in optimum working order so a nosedive isn’t even on the agenda. So here are 10 tips you should consider while hiring a heating and cooling contractor.

1. Study up —

Find out about license and insurance requirements for 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 contractors better understand your heating needs.

2.  Ask for referrals —

Ask friends, neighbors, and co-workers for contractor referrals. You can also contact local trade organizations for names of members in your area.

3. Call references —

Ask contractors for customer references and call them. Ask about the contractor’s installation or service performance, and if the job was completed on time and within budget.

4. Find special offers —

A heating and cooling system is one of the largest purchases you’ll make as a homeowner. Keep your costs down by checking around for available rebates on energy-efficient ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment.

5. Only Consider ENERGY STAR Equipment—

ENERGY STAR qualified products to meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and offer significant long-term energy savings. Contractors should be able to show you calculations of savings for ENERGY STAR heating and cooling equipment.

6. Expect a home evaluation —

The contractor 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. A good contractor will inspect your duct system (if applicable) for air leaks and insulation and measure airflow to make sure it meets manufacturer’s specifications.

7. Get written, itemized estimates —

When comparing 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.

8. Get the Proposal in Writing —

Be sure to review all terms carefully before you agree to move forward with a proposal. If you have questions about any part of the proposal, ask before you sign. And it goes without saying that you shouldn’t agree to anything that’s not in the contract in writing! The written proposal will protect you my specifying project costs, equipment models, job schedule and warranty information.

9. Pass it on —

Tell friends and family about ENERGY STAR. Almost one-quarter of households knowingly purchased at least one qualified product last year, and 71% of those consumers say they would recommend ENERGY STAR to a friend. Spread the word, and we can all make a big difference.

10. Finish with a Walk-Through Inspection –

Walk through the install with the installation tech to be sure all the t’s were crossed and the i’s dotted. Make sure you know how to work your thermostat, locate the system’s air filters, and when your system should be serviced next.

Follow these tips to ensure you have the best experience with an HVAC Contractor, and you’ll be sure to have a successful encounter.

Of course, you could just save time and call the best nearby heating and cooling professionals at Leonard Splaine Co. 

Looking for the best AC and furnace repair near you? Here at Leonard Splaine Co, we provide superior on-time service to all our customers.