5 tips every homeowner needs to know to find a qualified HVAC contractor
Your air conditioning unit is one of the most complex systems in your home. When you’re faced with repairing or replacing it, you need to make sure the equipment is installed properly, maintained well and kept in the best operational condition possible. Find a trusted HVAC contractor to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth out of your repair. Here’s how:
1 – Know your heating & air conditioning system.
Before you hire an HVAC contractor, do a little research on your own to acquaint yourself with the system at home. Figure out what the type, brand, model and maintenance history look like before you start calling around. Determine if there are any rooms that are particularly uncomfortable so you have at least some idea of the extent of the problem.
Add in perks like becoming more knowledgeable for running future diagnostics and familiarizing yourself with your heating and cooling system can turn into saved cash when you understand how to fix your unit and don’t require a technician anymore. Of course, for trickier tasks, it’s always recommended to let the professionals take point. But you’ll be able to talk with your HVAC technician and know you’re getting the best deal for your dollar.
2 – Look around.
Start looking for a reputable HVAC company by simply asking around. Talk to friends, neighbors, co-workers, anyone you can trust for contractor referrals. Ask them specific questions about the contractor’s installation and service performance. Find out if the job at hand was completed on time and on budget, too.
After talking with references directly, check out online searches and review sites and call over to local trade organizations for names of local members.
3 – Look at experience.
Do a little digging on your potential contractor. Get in touch with them and find out how much experience they have in the industry. Inquire about how long the company has been in business and if they employ full- or part-time contractors. Ask how long the average contractor has been in the industry and what their experience level is with your specific system. Does the company have an area of specialization? What continuing education programs or training has the contractor had recently to keep up with changing technology?
Find a professional, full-time contractor to work on your unit, and of course, it’s best if they have experience working with your specific model or similar systems.
4 – Work together during the home evaluation.
A qualified contractor will spend a significant amount of time inspecting your current system and your home to assess your individualized needs. Contractors should take into consideration the insulation, windows, square footage and home layout to figure out the best heating and cooling system based on your home. A good contractor should also work with you to inspect the duct work, if applicable, to check for air leaks and measure airflow to make sure it meets manufacturers’ specifications. If a technician is hesitant to work closely with you to evaluate the situation before the project starts take that as a huge red flag.
5 – Get it in writing.
Ask for a written, itemized estimate from all potential contractors. Compare cost, energy savings, warranties, tax rebates and the like. Be mindful, though, the company with the lowest price tag may not be the best deal if the product isn’t the most efficient because your monthly energy costs will be higher. Find out if the companies your considering are offering any special deals, and take those into consideration, too.
6 – Ink the deal.
When you’ve landed on your technician, sign the written proposal before you make the final commitment. This contract will help to protect you by specifying the job costs, project schedule, model specs and warranty information. It may be helpful to also include all terms and conditions of the proposal for complete protection. Do not sign an agreement that’s incomplete or a contract you haven’t read or don’t fully understand. And, keep a copy of all written documents on hand.
Are you a stand-out HVAC contractor who fits this bill? We’re looking for qualified technicians to join our growing staff. We offer competitive compensation, paid holidays and paid time off. We provide on-going technical training, incentive compensation programs and a $2,000 signing bonus. Qualified professionals in the Salt Lake and Park City area should apply here!