8 Points to Consider Before Hiring an HVAC Contractor

Whether you’re choosing an HVAC contractor to tune up your existing equipment or to learn more about a complete replacement, the decisions you make can affect your budget and comfort. Since HVAC systems are complex and expensive, it makes sense to select a heating and cooling contractor who has the best credentials and professional skills available.

What to Look for When Hiring an HVAC Contractor

• Licensed, insured and bonded – Having a current HVAC license, current insurance and bonding are the minimum requirements to insist upon.
• Professional certifications – Look for Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) membership or North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification, which indicates the contractor has achieved the highest performance standards in the industry.
• Reputation – Ask for their years in business and references from past clients. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) may also have given the contractor a rating.
• Onsite inspection – Avoid working with a contractor who gives you estimates over the phone. Most services a contractor provides require an onsite inspection for either diagnosis or replacement.
• Punctual and courteous – Expect the HVAC contractor to be punctual and courteous with you. Emergencies do happen, so ask the contractor to give you a call if they expect to be late.
• Whole-house evaluation – If you’re replacing your system, insist that the contractor perform a load calculation. This analysis requires detailed information about your home regarding its energy efficiency, layout, cubic footage and your usage patterns. Skipping the calculation can result in choosing a system that will increase energy use and shorten the life of the system.
• Estimates – The contractor will give you an estimate that includes a timeline for the work, details about the scope of work and projected costs. If you’re replacing your system, it also needs to include the exact model name or number of the new equipment.
• Service hours – Choose an HVAC contractor who offers emergency services 24/7 to reduce the discomfort you may experience if your system breaks down suddenly.

Sobieski Services is committed to helping customers in Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware learn more about home comfort and energy efficiency – especially HVAC and plumbing issues – so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.

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