How To Choose The Right Contractor

If your HVAC system is at least ten years old, you need to start planning for a replacement in the next few years. Now, if your equipment is only a few years old, it needs to have a regular maintenance schedule. This will make sure that it is in good condition at all times. In either situation, you need the services of a good HVAC contractor.

The following are some tips on what to consider when looking to install or repair an HVAC system in your home:
 

Experience and Licenses – An HVAC system is by no means cheap. Thus, you need to know that whomever you allow to work on it has the necessary training and experience. The contractor must also have the proper license to provide service in your area.

Your prospective contractor must also have sufficient insurance. This will protect you from liability in case of injuries or accidental damage to your property. Never hire a service provider that has no or insufficient insurance cover.

Long years of experience in the industry is an indication that the contractor has done an excellent job through the years. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have lasted long.
Ask about the training and certifications that their technicians have. It is essential that the company and its employees have up to date training and education.
Determine which HVAC brands your prospective contractor handles. These must include the brand of your HVAC system or what you intend to buy. Their technicians must have the necessary qualifications to work with these brands.

This is because each system is unique, depending on the manufacturer. A reputable company will make sure that its technicians are qualified to handle installation and repair work for specific models.

Evaluation Right in Your Own Home – Before an HVAC contractor can install the right cooling and heating system in your home, they must first have a thorough evaluation of your home.

Several factors come into play when deciding on the right cooling and heating solution for you. These include your home’s square footage, insulation R-value, and even the number of windows in your house and the direction they are facing.

The prospective contractor must also perform an inspection of your duct system for loose segments, leaks, and insulation. They must base the size of the new system on Manuals J, S, and D calculations (industry standard), and not only on your home’s square footage.
After the evaluation, the contractor must provide an itemized estimate in writing. This should include the cost, energy efficiency, and warranties, among others. It would be best if you did not base your decision on pricing alone.

Sometimes, you can save money in the long run with a more efficient and better quality system. Even if it is more expensive in the beginning, it makes up for the high initial cost with its lower fuel consumption over time.

Make requests for referrals and references from people you trust, like your family and friends. Find out if the contractors they hired completed their projects within budget and on time. Find out if the installations were clean, and if they kept the client’s property safe. Did they test the system after installation? This is important because you don’t want to have malfunctioning equipment once it is turned over to you.

Special Offers and Rebates – Your HVAC system is a considerable expense. Thus, it is not a bad idea to go shopping around for energy-efficient systems. You can also ask your dealer if there are current specials on offer. Some utility service providers offer rebates for efficient equipment installations. Your prospective contractor can help you find the right equipment for you.

Better Business Bureau Feedback – Check with the BBB if there are any complaints against your prospective contractor. You can also check online reviews for ratings and complaints about the contractor. However, beware of fake reviews; in particular, reviews without specifics or details are unreliable.
It is also a good idea to get in touch with local trade organizations. They may be able to provide you with some trustworthy contractors in your locality.

Efficiency – An efficient system goes a long way. When looking for an upgrade, you would want to have the most efficient unit you can buy. Ask your service provider for specific models that are Energy Star-rated.

Regardless of whom you choose as your contractor, we hope these tips help you in selecting a competent and well-qualified one. We at Holliday Heating & Air are committed to doing what is in our client’s best interest, and we are proud to meet all of the qualifications listed above within our service area, including licensing and certification. We hope you will consider us choosing us as your home heating and air experts, but don’t take my word for it, please take a look at our testimonials from our hundreds of satisfied customers.

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