If you’re looking to install, repair, or replace your HVAC system, it’s important to find a qualified contractor. There are many factors that should be considered when choosing an HVAC contractor. This article will help you determine the qualifications you should look for, how to stay within budget, and what questions you should ask to make sure you choose the right contractor.
Choosing an HVAC Contractor: Important Factors
There are several important factors to consider when choosing an HVAC contractor. Not all contractors will meet your expectations; therefore, it’s important to know what you should be looking for before interviewing them and hiring them.
Licensed and Certified Contractors
One of the major factors that contribute to quality workmanship by an HVAC contractor is licensing. Although there may be exceptions, most states require heating and air conditioning contractors to have a license from the local or state government in which they live. In order for a person to receive a license as an HVAC contractor, they must complete hundreds of hours of classes and training. Not only do you need to consider a contractor’s license, but it may be wise to choose a certified HVAC contractor as well.
Certified contractors have successfully completed the EPA 608 Certification Exam, which tests a person on their knowledge of basic air conditioning and heating principles and practices, including refrigeration, electricity, safety, and installation techniques. In addition to being tested on their skill level about basic principles, the EPA requires that the general public continue learning about HVAC through continuing education courses to maintain certification status. Certified contractors are held accountable for upholding specific ethical standards by state licensing boards.
Bonding & Insurance Requirements
In addition to having an appropriate form from your state government, you should ensure your contractor has the proper bonding and insurance requirements. HVAC contractors are bonded to protect property owners from damages or financial loss that may occur while they complete work on their property. A bond is a contract between the homeowner and contractor stating that if any damage occurs while an HVAC system is being installed, repaired, or maintained, the contractor will cover the cost of repairs and/or replacement of property damaged during that time period.
On the other hand, insurance protects everyone involved in case of injuries occurring on someone else’s property for which they’re responsible. In addition to liability insurance policies, some local governments require contractors to carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect employees on-site while working on commercial properties. Some HVAC companies even go so far as to provide life insurance coverage for employees in case of an unexpected tragedy.
Experience and Reputation
If you choose to hire a contractor that is not licensed or insured, your home could be at risk – not only from damages that may occur during the installation process but also from the lack of trustworthiness of a non-licensed contractor operating without workers’ compensation. A reputable company will have a good track record with past clients and maintain integrity while working on their properties. You can check out reviews about HVAC companies online or ask friends/family if they’ve had any positive experiences with contractors they’d recommend. In addition to checking references, get written estimates from several companies before choosing which one you want to hire. In some cases, contractors will offer a discount for work if you sign a contract immediately.
Discounts and Promotions
In addition to scams and unreliable companies, sometimes discounts and promotions offered by HVAC companies are misleading. Although it may seem like a good idea to choose the company that offers you the lowest price, many times, “you get what you pay for.” Just because an ad says they’re offering “$500 off any system” does not mean that this is actually true; in fact, chances are your total cost won’t be reduced by half no matter what the ad may lead you to believe. Sometimes such ads include hidden fees or fail to state other important information about their services – so read carefully before signing a contract!
The Pros of Choosing a NATE-certified Technician
The EPA requires all contractors to be tested for basic CPR & First Aid skills in addition to testing on the principles of HVAC installation and repair. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) also offers certifications in specialized areas, including furnace cleaning, ventilation duct cleaning, drain line cleaning, mold remediation, plus testing in all specialties offered through NADCA.
The Cons of Using Unlicensed or Ill-equipped Contractors
Unfortunately, many homeowners are unaware that only certified technicians should handle potentially dangerous gas lines that come with furnaces. The lack of licensing can not only put your family at risk due to untrained workers, but it could also result in expensive repairs if anything goes wrong during or after an installation process. So always check to see if your contractor is certified and check their insurance policies before hiring anyone.
Questions to Ask Before Signing Contracts
First, make sure your HVAC contractor is fully licensed and insured.
Ask what type of equipment they’re proposing to install; if it’s not the same brand as your old unit/s, check out reviews online or ask family members or friends for recommendations about brands that might provide better quality at a lower price.
Find out how long they’ve been in the business plus whether they have any complaints filed against them with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or other agencies. You can also find customer referrals on their websites – just be sure to check out the types of testimonials listed before making your final choice.
Find out which brands are installed by their company – some contractors may only offer certain makes & models because that’s what they stock in inventory or have a relationship with.
Decide if you’d rather schedule an appointment for the day of the week that works best for you or on a specific day at a time that is convenient for your schedule. You may also want to check if they offer after-hour service if emergencies arise on nights or weekends. You’ll also want to find out how much notice is required and whether there will be an additional fee charged if you need someone to come out right away (especially since some companies only offer emergency services 24/7).
And don’t forget: always request references, call them, ask questions about their workmanship, and make sure warranties are offered before signing any contracts!
Choosing an HVAC contractor can be a challenge, but knowing which questions to ask and what factors are important to consider will make your life much easier. For example, suppose you choose a contractor who fails to meet the needs of your home because they don’t offer certain brands or equipment types that may save you money in energy bills. In that case, it’s not worth it to hire them over another company that specializes in providing the type of services needed!
However, if you’re able to find a trusted service provider with all the experience necessary along with reasonable prices and excellent customer service – then you’re well on your way toward enjoying optimum comfort year-round at a lower cost than before.