10 Questions to Ask an HVAC Contractor

Finding the ideal HVAC contractor to replace or service your home comfort system can be daunting. That decision is significant because the contractor you hire heavily impacts your HVAC system’s quality, longevity and efficiency for years to come.

To help you make an informed decision, research several companies in your neighborhood that might be suitable for the job. Once you create a shortlist of a handful of candidates with enough experience and positive reviews, reach out to 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 ought to be the first question on the list. Hiring a licensed contractor is how you know that they fulfill the state and local criteria for HVAC companies. Then, insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents during the maintenance or repair. A trustworthy HVAC contractor can supply verification of licensing and insurance upon request.

2. What Size HVAC System Do I Need?

HVAC systems come in various sizes and strengths. Installing a system that is too big or too small causes inefficient performance and could limit the unit’s life expectancy. A seasoned contractor can examine your home and figure out the recommended heating and cooling capacity of your new HVAC equipment for the best comfort and longevity.

3. What Brands Do You Carry or Recommend?

Various furnace and air conditioner brands offer systems with differing qualities, efficiency ratings and warranties. It’s best to work with a non-proprietary HVAC contractor that is able to help you decide on the most appropriate fit for your requirements. To get an idea of equipment quality and prices, give consideration to requesting a list of brands the contractor suggests and why.

4. Do You Offer a Written, Itemized Estimate?

A written quote is better than a verbal quote. 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. Get estimates from several HVAC contractors to help you compare prices and protect you from unanticipated costs.

Remember, extremely low estimates don’t always bring on the savings you expect. You’ll likely end up with second-rate 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 profession’s standard. Nevertheless, you should also ask about parts and equipment warranties. A few HVAC contractors offer extended warranties and satisfaction guarantees, signifying confidence in their specialists 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 needs and budget. Signing a maintenance agreement with your installer helps bring about 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?

A lot of HVAC work involves permits from local or state officials. A reputable contractor should handle this process for you, saving you time and stress throughout the installation process.

8. What Are My Payment Options?

It’s important to have information about how a contractor structures their payment schedule. Make sure to ask if they have financing options or if they expect full payment upon completion.

9. How Long Will the Installation Take?

How long it takes to install HVAC equipment will vary based on the project's size and scope. Even so, having a clear timeline is crucial to minimize disruption to your day-to-day routine. Your contractor should provide a reasonable time frame to bring the project to its conclusion and then follow through on this estimate.

10. How Can I Improve Home Heating and Cooling Efficiency?

Your contractor should certainly be able to suggest 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 recommendations may help you qualify for a smaller heating and cooling system. The result is a more affordable up-front investment and reduced utility bills for years to come.

Contact Midway Services for HVAC Contracting Services in Clearwater

At Midway Services we recognize that choosing the right HVAC contractor is a critical decision you shouldn’t take lightly. As industry leaders with years of experience and as one of roughly 100 Service Experts locations across North America, the crew at Midway Services proudly provides affordable and long-lasting installations, repairs and maintenance services. We stand by our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and our commitment to excellence is reflected in our extensive selection of high-quality brands and comprehensive maintenance packages. Our ultimate goal is to offer security and the satisfaction of completing a job well done.

So, if you’re looking for a respected HVAC partner, don’t hesitate to reach out at 727-219-2471. When you contact a Service Experts office like Midway Services, we’ll be ready to answer your questions and help you make the appropriate decisions for your HVAC needs.