The market is awash with companies offering air conditioning services. Therefore, choosing the right contractor can be challenging. You must thoroughly research and vet potential companies. To narrow down your research and get an experienced contractor who offers value for your money, below are important questions you should ask.
1. What Experience Do You Have?
Experienced HVAC contractors can handle air conditioning projects, including emergencies. Enquire how long they have been operating in the industry and whether they have recently handled a job similar to yours. For instance, one of the most common problems you may experience with your HVAC systems is clogged condensate pipes, which can cause water to leak. According to the EPA, 10% of most homes in the United States experience plumbing leaks, wasting up to 90 gallons of water. An experienced contractor will diagnose and fix any leaks in the HVAC system.
2. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Always enquire if your preferred company has the required permits, certifications, and insurance. To be safe, request copies of these documents before signing the agreement. Remember to ascertain if their technicians have an HVAC certification from the state.
3. What is the Estimated Cost of Services?
Perhaps, the essential consideration is whether the contractors’ rates match your budget – everything boils down to money. Get estimates from at least three other companies for you to compare prices. Make sure their estimate describes the project and the estimated completion date. However, don’t compromise on quality for lower costs – sometimes cheap can be expensive. Also, there is no guarantee that the lower-priced contractor will offer you quality services.
4. What Type of Services Do You Offer?
The HVAC industry is growing significantly. According to Comfy Living, the market size of HVAC systems was $240.8 billion globally in 2019. It is important to note that most HVAC companies offer basic services like installing, maintaining, and repairing the systems. However, others offer services outside the normal scope, like cleaning air ducts and improving indoor air quality. Always ask about their services before signing the contract. Of course, there are some services that are best left to specialists who are properly qualified and equipped to deal with the issue they deal with. Mold, for example, is something that should only be done by individuals who have been on a mold certification course, as this is a potentially dangerous substance that could cause even more damage if not handled correctly.
5. Do You Offer Guarantees and Warranties?
Always choose a company that will stand behind their work when hiring a contractor. A reliable contractor should guarantee quality services. They should also offer you a warranty on their products and services. Remember to ask what period their warranty will cover and whether it has any limitations.
5. Do You Have a Portfolio or Customer Testimonials?
The HVAC industry is on a growth trajectory. According to Onedesk, HVAC unit sales will surpass 151 million by 2024. With the industry growing, the number of HVAC contractors will proliferate. Top-notch contractors are ready to share their previous projects and customer feedback.
Always ask for a reference from the contractor you intend to hire. Call the references to get first-hand information about the contractor and satisfaction level. Additionally, check their online reviews or testimonials from past customers to get a good idea about their expertise in the industry.
6. Do You Have a Written Contract?
Always ask your contractor for a written agreement to eschew disagreements during and after the project. The agreement should clearly state the responsibilities of each party during the project and how much money you should pay at the end of the project. Before you sign any contract, ensure that they include all the important information about the project.
7. Do You Offer Emergency Services?
Ask your contractor whether they offer HVAC emergency services. The last thing you want on your plate is a contractor who can’t respond to emergencies. This can be the determining factor of the ideal company to enter a contract with.
If you need help with HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance, always take your sweet time to find the best professionals. Part of your due diligence is asking the right questions. Call us today to schedule an appointment with our HVAC team.
