Quality Service Non-Negotiable? Use HVAC Service Quotes As A Guide

Hiring a quality contractor to perform preventive maintenance on your HVAC system is important: You deserve to work with trustworthy people to get the job done right, who will treat your equipment as though it is their own, and won’t take advantage of you with unnecessary repairs, hard sells, or overpriced service.

As you research various companies, check each business’s certifications and affiliations to learn whether they have a history of ethical practices and an upstanding reputation. Find out whether they employ NATE-certified technicians.

Another way to gauge quality service is comparing HVAC quotes. HVAC quotes can often confuse homeowners, because the jargon and terminology isn’t common knowledge. We’ve compiled a list of the most common references you’ll hear when discussing HVAC quotes, and roughly what you should expect to pay for those items.

• Contactors. You might need a new contactor if the fan, reversing valve or compressor is malfunctioning. Contactors are typically inexpensive.
• Refrigerant. You’re charged for refrigerant by the pound. Low refrigerant either points to faulty installation or a system leak. If you have a leak, all the refrigerant will have to be drained and then replaced after the coil is repaired. It’s important to have a skilled professional work with refrigerant because of the inherent risks of high pressure levels and chemicals.
• Compressors. Repairing or replacing these components can be costly. In fact, compressors can represent the most expensive major HVAC repair, sometimes adding up to thousands of dollars. Your technician should explain exactly what is wrong, and your options for addressing a malfunctioning compressor.
• Coils. Evaporator and condenser-coil cleaning is affordable. However, replacing them may not be. In fact, replacing the coils and compressor together can be so expensive that you may save more money by simply purchasing a new air conditioner. Repairing the fins on the coils should not be as costly as the coils themselves.

If you find HVAC quotes confusing, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. Your contractor should explain every repair and price. For quality HVAC quotes and service you can trust, call Sobieski Services. We’ll always put Delaware area homeowners’ needs and comfort before making a buck!

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Sobieski serves Wilmington, Delaware and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website.