July 14, 2017
When you need heating and cooling replacement or repair services, choosing the right HVAC contractor for the job is the most important part of the process. It can also be the most daunting.
If you work with the right company, then the quality of work will reflect that. If you work with the wrong contractor, however, you may be one of the 50% of homeowners who have an improperly installed HVAC system.
Sizing, measurement, and design mistakes are the most common. An improperly installed HVAC unit will cost you more money and energy while supplying less comfort. You’ll be looking at a lower lifespan and worse performance sooner than anticipated.
For the cost you put into a new system, it’s recommended that you do your research and get written estimates, among other tips, in order to choose the best heating and cooling contractor for the job.
It’s important to do your homework first. Look up your local HVAC companies on review sites, such as Yelp, Facebook, and Google among others. The company should have an A or higher rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and be popular with past customers.
From there, ask your friends or your social media contacts for advice and referrals. Often a post on your Facebook timeline or a call to a good friend who is also a homeowner will yield great advice.
Work with a contractor that has a good reputation for quality workmanship and customer service.
Look for an HVAC company whose technicians are licensed, bonded, insured, background checked and drug tested. You also want to check for certifications such as EPA, NATE, and Diamond Certified. These certifications ensure that you are working with a company that is top-rated for quality and customer service.
HVAC companies are required to print their license number on their website and marketing materials. Do not hesitate to ask the company for their license numbers, criminal background checks, and any additional drug testing or measures that help protect your family and property.
Any reputable HVAC company will provide their customers with written estimates before any work begins. These estimates should be honest and fair.
With upfront pricing you won’t be surprised by unexpected costs. Your contractor should walk you through all the costs and fees prior to the start of any repair or replacement service.
Once you get your estimates, shop around. Speak to other highly rated contractors to compare costs and quality. Don’t go with the lowest estimate if the company is not well rated online. Spending more money upfront for quality workmanship saves you a lot of frustration and costs down the road.
Read the written proposal carefully and make sure the costs are clearly explained before you sign anything.
If a contractor doesn’t come to your home to conduct measurements and a full evaluation, they are not reputable. You should expect a contractor to visit your home to inspect your current system and perform measurements before any estimate is provided for replacement.
After a full inspection, your technician will assess what size and type of unit is needed to meet the home’s needs. Your duct system and insulation will also need to be evaluated to find the best fit. The right contractor will spend the time getting to know your home before the job begins to get things right.
Working with a company that has special offers will help you keep costs down. Don’t be afraid to call your HVAC company and ask about any current coupon offers.
Additionally, rebates are available on qualified ENERGY STAR® heating and cooling equipment. Since HVAC units are a large cost for homeowners, look for any specials and rebates that will help out. Your technician should walk you through all of your rebate, warranty, and other savings options.
Going green will never go out of style. Choosing an energy-efficient HVAC unit that meets the strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is good for the environment and your bottom line.
Look for ENERGY STAR®-qualified products and you’re ready to go. A good contractor can help you estimate your cost savings over time for each model. That way you can consider the best long-term option for your home and our planet.
We pride ourselves on providing only the best service and workmanship to our clients, which is why all of our technicians are EPA, NATE, and Diamond Certified.
For more information on quality heating and cooling service in Northern California, contact Service Champions!