10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Choosing the best HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can be intimidating. That choice 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 suitable for the job. Once you create a shortlist of a handful of 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?

Inquiring about a company's license and insurance should be the first question on the list. Hiring a licensed contractor is how you know that they fulfill the state and local standards for HVAC companies. Then, insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents during the project. A reputable HVAC contractor can supply evidence of licensing and insurance upon request.

2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?

HVAC systems are not one-size-fits-all. Installing a system that is too big or too small causes inefficient performance and could decrease the unit’s service life. A knowledgeable contractor can assess your home and determine the ideal heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for the best 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 is able to help you locate the optimal fit for your requirements. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, think about requesting a list of brands the contractor endorses and why.

4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?

A written quote is better than a verbal estimate. When you have an itemized written estimate, you can see what the contractor charges for each component, including labor, helping you recognize where your money is going. Seek estimates from multiple 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 lead to 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 extra 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 industry standard. Still, you should also ask about parts and equipment warranties. Some HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, indicating confidence in their employees and equipment.

6. Do You Offer Maintenance Services?

Regular tune-ups are essential to making the most of your HVAC system’s efficiency and life span. Consider using a contractor that offers tiered memberships to fit your needs and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your furnace and air conditioning company 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?

Most HVAC work calls for permits from local or state officials. 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 understand how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Always ask if they offer financing options or if they require full payment when the project is done.

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. Even so, having a clear timeline is very important to minimize disruption to your everyday routine. Your contractor should supply 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 recommend 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 actions may help you qualify for a smaller heating and cooling system. The result is a more wallet-friendly up-front investment and decreased utility bills for years to come.

Contact Knochelmann Service Experts for HVAC Contracting Services in Sharonville

At Knochelmann Service Experts we know that choosing the right HVAC contractor is an important decision 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 team at Knochelmann 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 dedication to excellence is reflected in our extensive selection of high-quality brands and comprehensive maintenance packages. Our ultimate goal is to offer peace of mind and the assurance of a job well done.

So, if you’re looking for a trusted HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 859-905-0834. When you contact a Service Experts office like Knochelmann Service Experts, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the right decisions for your heating and cooling needs.